7 Tips for Stress-Free Shopping

Shopping is something that we usually do to relax and get our minds away from stressful situations. But, as Christmas is rapidly approaching, malls and shopping districts are increasingly becoming tight and crowded.
As much as you want to avoid the Christmas rush, you need to finish your shopping in time for Christmas eve, so you’re planning to just power-through and endure the crowd and traffic.
But, you don’t have to because you can have a hassle-free holiday shopping experience with these tips.

1. Make a List

If you plan to hit the malls and just buy whatever you can find, then you may find yourself forgetting someone or something and end up going back to the store numerous times.
So, do what Santa does – make a list of everyone you’d like to get a present for—from your co-workers and friends to the most important people in your life.

2. Prepare your Budget

Prevent yourself from overspending not only for gifts, but also for Noche Buena by creating a budget.
If you think you’re short on budget, you may want to offload some of your pre-loved valuables on an online pawning site to get more closet space and additional spending money this Christmas.
Segregate your gift list according to importance, as you may want to spend less for coworkers and friends and more for your family members. This way, you know exactly how much you want to spend for a specific present when you start shopping.

3. Go to the Malls Early

People normally go to work between 9 AM to 5PM, so expect that people would hit the malls after work.
If you can take a day off, go to the malls on a weekday, and be there before it opens. Most malls open at 10 AM during the holiday season, so be there by 9:30 AM.
This will help you avoid traffic and quickly find a parking spot. You’ll also find the mall less crowded, so you don’t have to line up at the cashier or giftwrapping counter for too long.

4. Shop Online

Often, you already know what present you want to give your loved ones. If you can’t find the time to go to malls and stores, then get as much as you can from online shops. Your items will be delivered right to your doorstep without having to elbow your way through a crowd. Just make sure to calculate the shipping and delivery time.
You can also try purchasing from an online pawning site to get more value for your money. There are pre-loved valuables that you can get at a cheaper price, and it will also be delivered to you. You can find a wide range of items—from computers and mobile gadgets to jewelry and antiques.

5. DIY Gifts

Can’t find the energy to brave the Christmas traffic and crowd? Then DIY your presents!
If you have a hand for arts and crafts, you may enjoy making some of your gifts, instead. Bake some cookies, pickle vegetables, crochet coasters and hats, sew tote bags, make beautiful earrings or bracelets, or print out cute stickers.
After all, nothing is ever more personal and unique than a handcrafted item.

6. Wrap your Presents Yourself

Instead of lining up for hours on giftwrapping counters, wrap your presents yourself. Some stores will let you just get the gift wrappers for free, so you don’t have to wait for long.
You can also try the eco-friendlier approach by recycling magazines and newspapers instead of buying gift wrappers that are torn and thrown away when the presents are opened. This way, you’re able to reduce your carbon footprint, save trees, and cut down on budget!

7. Track your Expenses

Tick off items in your shopping list as you purchase them. Include the price that you spent for it and stop for a minute to compute how much you’ve spent so far and how much money you still have on your budget.
Sum them up periodically to make sure you’re not overspending. This will also help you avoid going on a shopping spree.
Wrap Up
Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful event. Follow these tips to avoid stressing yourself out this holiday season.
Feel the spirit of giving this Christmas and enjoy shopping for presents. Just imagine how great it feels when you give your presents to the people you care about.
Happy Christmas, everyone!