Wednesday, December 16, 2009

5 Last Minute Christmas Shopping Tips You Need to Know Now!

If you have waited to start your Christmas shopping you are not alone; millions have put off Holiday shopping until the last minute.

Now, more than ever it is important to know a few key facts that can help you save money and get the gifts you want to give.

1. Have your Christmas Shopping List!
Nothing costs you more than an unplanned impulse buy. Quickly, list all the people you need to buy for and gift and gift ideas. If you don’t have ideas, call family members or friends for help, but get the list together today. If you need ideas - check out our Gift Giving Help Questions.

2. Online Shipping Deadlines
Hard to find gifts are easier to buy online, but Standard Shipping is starting to fade away with many retailers last Standard Shipping for Christmas ending the 16th, 17th and 18th. 2 and overnight shipping can add $10, $20 or more to the cost of any gift.

3. In Store Discounts are Better This Weekend
Many of the best pre-Christmas discounts are likely to occur THIS Weekend, don’t expect that items will drop on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th. Many retailers will offer the same deals or even reduce discounts next week, because they know you need to get gifts. So if you find a great deal this weekend, buy it and good home happy.

4. Comparison Shopping
Once you have your gift list and shop around before you drive around. Whether you buy online or in the store, you can check the price of items at Target, Toys R Us, Walmart, Macy’s, Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, your other favorite stores and Amazon and see what is a good price.

Also be sure to check store availability or Shop and pick up options just to make sure you can get what you want. That way you don’t waste time running from store to store.

Once you have the information, you can decide where you want to buy the item and what a reasonable price is.

5. Use Coupons
Guys are famous for avoiding coupons, but the bottom line is saving 10, 20 or 30% by using a coupon is just smart.

Macy’s, Bed Bath & Beyond and lots of online merchants are offering money saving coupons. We have a list of Coupon Codes for gifts, gift baskets, toys, and much more.

Knowing these 5 Last Minute Christmas Shopping Tips, will not only help you find better gifts but in the end you’ll be Merrier knowing you saved on your Christmas gifts.

The Gift Guy – Gift Idea Center
For Christmas Gifts and Gift Ideas visit Gift Idea Center

Gift Idea Center blog features gift ideas and products for gift giving. Product and text links from this blog may result in compensation to Gift Idea Center if a purchase is made at that site.