No matter how well-intentioned you are with holiday shopping, life can get in the way. Often you’re scrambling at the last minute to grab gifts, food and décor you thought you’d have done weeks earlier.
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Don’t panic. Instead, try these creative strategies to get ahead on your holiday shopping while keeping your holiday budget in check.
Compare Prices Online Before You Buy
You don’t need to dash out to the store expecting a deal — get a jumpstart by using apps or browser extensions that instantly compare prices. Some even offer free or low-cost expedited shipping, which can save both time and money. Shopping this way also helps you avoid impulse buys that sneak into your cart when you’re in a rush — and you can do all this at home.
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Look For Discounted Gift Cards
Warehouse clubs often sell gift cards in multipacks at noticeable discounts. Buying a bundle means you can cover several stocking stuffers in one purchase for less than you’d spend individually. As the holidays get closer, these discounts sometimes go deeper, so if you are shopping at the last minute, it could end up a surprisingly good deal.
Check Daily Deals and Flash Sales
Retailers — both online and in-store — often run “holiday countdowns” or flash sales the closer you get to the big day. If you’re starting now, you should be able to catch most of these bargains as they pop up.
Go for Practical, Budget-Friendly Stocking Stuffers
Stocking stuffers don’t need to be expensive to feel special. Dollar stores, grocery stores and bookstores are treasure troves of affordable little gifts. Think cozy socks, fun stationery, puzzles, snacks or bath products — all items you can pick up while doing normal errands up until the holidays. Practical items that people will actually use make the best budget-friendly stuffers.
Use Membership Perks
This is the time to squeeze every bit of value out of your memberships. Amazon Prime, Walmart+ and Target Circle, to name a few, often offer deals, free shipping and curbside pickup. Don’t forget the points and rewards sitting on your credit cards — redeeming them now can stretch your budget further without spending extra cash.
Hit the Pharmacy or Convenience Store Strategically
Drugstores aren’t just for prescriptions. They often stock clever, useful and seasonal gifts, from holiday mugs to small electronics. Many also offer loyalty discounts and carry wrapping paper, tape and cards, making them a one-stop shop. Pair your holiday shopping with everyday errands here and you’ll save time as well as money.
Create a Subscription Starter Pack
For the people on your list who “have everything,” think experiences instead of stuff. Pair a $10 to $20 gift card with a note introducing a subscription — like music, audiobooks or streaming sports. Framing it as a “starter pack” makes it clear you’re giving them the gift of trying something new without a long-term commitment.
Lean Into Digital-Only Gifts
If you’re late to the game, digital gifts can save the day when shipping deadlines have passed. Options like e-books, online courses, meal-delivery credits or gaming credits are instant, thoughtful and often discounted during the holidays. The best part? No wrapping paper required.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Holiday Gift Shopping Hacks To Do Now That Can Save You Big This Season
