Holiday Shopping Tips and Tricks

It’s that time of year again—it’s time to start buying up those holiday items for all the upcoming parties and gift-giving occasions. Here are 5 holiday shopping tips and tricks to help this holiday season.

Planning Ahead

I feel like this is a common thread in my articles, but planning is a must! Are you the party hosting kinda mom? Do you hate to turn up to a holiday party empty-handed? Gotta think about the kids’ parties and teacher presents, not to mention Christmas. So, planning ahead is essential. Consider the occasions you have coming up and who you need to shop for. Think about where and when you can purchase the things you need/want.

Prime Days Deals

Amazon Prime days come up a few times a year. If you haven’t started already, you just missed the fall sales. Don’t go crazy buying unnecessary items, and only get what you need. Check similar brands and products and perhaps double-check on another website is handy to make sure that you are really getting a good deal, and not paying for a small discount on a marked-up item. If you have a party coming up, start thinking about buying those holiday items early when the sales are on. I specifically bought things for our toddler during these sales as well as a few holiday clothing options.

Black Friday Sales

Black Friday sales often start more than a week in advance these days so you have plenty of time to find a good deal. These sales are always similar to Prime Days. If you have a big ticket item, try waiting until the Black Friday sales as many different stores now participate, from large conglomerates or small local businesses. You have the opportunity to shop around and find what you need. We are waiting for the Black Friday sales to try and find a good price for our wedding rings.

Less for Christmas

Christmas has its own specific mention here as it often stresses so many people out. So, I’ll come back to my first point of planning in advance. If you know what you are buying and you start getting things in advance, it will take the December stress away. Try not to go overboard. If you don’t wanna do an Elf on the Shelf, don’t do it! Perhaps suggest that your family do a Secret Santa or Yankee Swap type thing where you aren’t buying for everyone.

When it comes to buying kids gifts, you really don’t need to spend an arm and a leg and feel the pressure of the season. I love what my sister back in Australia does for her kids. Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. That way you aren’t breaking the bank or buying the kids a thousand gifts. I think this is exactly what I will be doing for my toddler this year. I’ve already got her something to wear and something to read sorted, plus a mini book set and a Ms. Rachel toy ready for her birthday at the beginning of next year. If your little one is into Ms. Rachel and you see a toy, don’t delay, those items don’t last in stores long!

After Holiday Sales

Do I love an after-holiday sale? Leftover items are heavily discounted, often 70% off or more! This is where I start thinking about holiday outfits for my toddler for next year and buy the size up so she will be ready for it when the next holiday season comes around. Don’t forget to check out your local craft stores for holiday decorations. You will need somewhere to store your items until next year, but the savings will be worth it.

Thinking ahead and buying with the sales have definitely saved my family some much-needed cash. Fingers crossed these holiday shopping tips will do the same for you and your family!