Starbucks red cups have officially made their annual appearance, which can only mean one thing: holiday shopping season is upon us!
According to a Deloitte survey, shoppers are expected to spend $1,387 per household this holiday season. If you’re planning to do a little holiday shopping this year, consider the tips below to keep that spending in check:
Set a budget
Before even setting foot in a store (or opening your online browser), make a list of everyone you plan to shop for as well as a corresponding gift limit. Avoid the temptation to purchase the first thing you see and instead, shop with intention and have your spending limits nearby to keep you in check.
Don’t procrastinate
Waiting until the last minute may make it more likely that your desired item is sold out or otherwise unavailable. Not only will you have to find a suitable alternative, you’ll also likely have to overpay for expedited shipping. Truly, it pays to plan ahead.
Price Match
These days, many retailers will match a competitor’s price on the same item (provided the item is in stock and not already on sale). Before making your purchase, be sure to do some quick research to see if you can’t find a better deal on that coveted item. Websites like BizRate, CamelCamelCamel, and Pronto are especially helpful if you’re looking to price compare online.
Use coupons
Don’t overspend if you don’t have to! These days, it is virtually impossible to not find a coupon code to use. Many times retailers will even reward you with a coupon or discount code for signing up for their email so subscribe to their list if you plan to make a purchase. Better yet, download the Honey or Retail Me Not browser extensions and get alerted with coupon codes or price-drop notifications as you shop in real time. Saving money just got so much easier!
Abandon your cart
If you can afford to wait a day or so before submitting your payment or completing your purchase, close down your browser entirely and leave your items sitting in the online shopping cart. Doing so may seem silly but many retailers will respond by sending you an automated email reminder with a coupon code designed to help entice you to complete your purchase.
Aim for free shipping
National Free Shipping day is Monday, December 14th. Retailers that participate will offer their shoppers free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve. If you have your shopping list handy, be sure to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity to save BIG on shipping.
Plan for Curbside Pick-up
Another way to save on shipping costs? Order online and arrange to pick up in store. Thanks to COVID, many retailers have made curbside pick-up readily available and easy to do!
Get money back!
It’s easier than ever to get rewarded for your purchases when you use the many available cash back/rewards shopping apps. Read up on our favorites here!
Toby Ryan says
It makes sense that you should avoid waiting too long to purchase an item since it may be out of stock by the time you try buying it. My wife recently mentioned that she would like a warm coat for Christmas since she enjoys walking to our neighbor’s house during the winter in order to make sure that he is okay. Maybe I should consider buying her a coat the next time I go shopping.