Holiday shopping can bring out the worst in people: claustrophobia from mall crowds, competitiveness for that last red sweater on the sale rack, anxiety about that rapidly-encroaching credit limit, among other things. Make this season a stress-free holiday again with these shopping tips:
- Shop online whenever possible. And yes, that could include grocery shopping for that big dinner party you’re hosting.
- Redeem your reward points from your credit card to buy gifts for loved ones.
- If possible, place coveted items on hold or lay-away as an alternative to paying cash or using credit. The retailer will hold your item in reserve until you pay for it in full.
- Avoid shopping altogether and CRAFT your present!
- Shop alone! Less distractions make for better and faster purchase decisions.
- Keep all your receipts from gift shopping together so that it’s easier to find the receipt to return Grandma Sue’s gravy boat when you find out she already has the same one.
