Hectic Holidays: 5 Ways To Control Last-Minute Holiday Shopping

Not finished shopping? Use these five tips to save money, time, and stress and still get all the gifts you need.

Still shopping for the people on your gift list? It’s okay – there’s still time for you to complete your shopping list and save money.

Here are five ways to curb your spending and get all the gifts you need.

1. Use Credit Rewards. Have credit card points building up so you can buy yourself a gift card? Why not use those points for a gift for the holidays instead? You’ll be saving money, using what you already have, and don’t have to go to the store.
2. Plan What You Need. Don’t head into a store looking for a good idea. Brainstorm before you stop by so you at least have an idea of what you should get. You can also look online to price match and see if the store has what you need in stock.
3. Budget, Budget, Budget. This is important, especially if you still have a long list of things to buy. Sit down and see how much you want to spend per gift and then find gifts that match that amount.
4. Paying With Credit. If you’re doing some last-minute budgeting and realize you don’t have all the cash up front, that’s okay. Decide what items you’ll pay for with a credit card or holiday loan, and have a plan to pay it off so you don’t go into debt.
5. New Gift Exchange Ideas. Are there others in your family or friend group struggling to finish shopping? Suggest doing a White Elephant, Secret Santa, or gift card exchange. You’ll save everyone time and money and avoid holiday stress.