Can you believe it’s that time of the year again? It seems like just a few days ago we were all celebrating the 4th of July with friends and family. Now it’s time to start getting ready for the holidays.
This time of year can be especially challenging for seniors. So, before you get started with your holiday shopping, take a few minutes to dive into this holiday shopping survival guide. It’ll help ease stress while saving you money.
Let’s take a look.
Set Your Budget and Make a Detailed List
Before heading out to do your shopping, spend some time deciding exactly what you can afford and what you plan on buying.
Once you’re out shopping, it can be tempting to make unplanned impulse purchases for the people you care about. The last thing you want to do is make the holidays more stressful by spending more than you can afford.
By setting a strict budget and creating a detailed list of what you plan on buying, you’ll take a lot of the stress out of holiday shopping.
Spend Some Time Price Researching Online
Even if you don’t plan on doing your shopping online, it’s still a good idea to do comparative price checks of the items you plan on buying.
Let’s say you plan on buying your daughter-in-law the air fryer she’s been wanting. You’ve found a reliable brand and know which stores around town carry the item. Before heading out and making the purchase, look the exact item up on sites like Amazon, eBay, or PriceGrabber. You’ll get a much better idea of what the fair market value is for the item.
You may even decide to buy it online if the savings are substantial.
Pace Yourself
Even if you’re the type that likes to get things done as fast as possible, don’t try to take all your holiday shopping on in one day.
One of the advantages of starting early is that you can space out your shopping adventures and wait to see if prices continue to drop as the holidays approach.
Plus, holiday shopping among the crowds of value-seekers can be downright exhausting. Set realistic goals on how much shopping you can accomplish during each day you head out on the town.
Once your goal is done, head home and enjoy the day’s victory.
Avoid the Crowds
Not a lot of people enjoy fighting the throngs of holiday bargain shoppers. You’re probably one of those people that don’t.
To avoid getting caught up in a whirlwind of shopping chaos, head out to the stores early in the morning when they first open. This is especially true on early weekdays (Monday – Wednesday).
Avoid Black Friday sales if you can. You’re likely to be surrounded by hordes of agitated shoppers who are willing to push and shove in order to reach the doorbuster deals.
Go with Someone
Try to avoid doing your holiday shopping alone. Not only is it more enjoyable to shop with someone else (a friend or caregiver), it’s also safer.
The last thing you’d want to happen during your holiday shopping is to be alone and suffer a fall or other accident.
Plus, you’ll have someone to enjoy lunch with.
Keep Your Money Close
Crowded stores are a dream come true for pickpockets and identity thieves. When you leave home, only bring with you the cash or credit cards you’ll need to use that day. Leave the rest safely at home.
Also, be sure to keep every receipt and compare them to your bank and credit card statements after you’re done shopping.
Enjoy the Holiday Season
With these six simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful holiday shopping season.
Don’t forget to enjoy time with friends and family when the holidays arrive.