The 10 Commandments of holiday shopping
By Destination Brevard
It's that time of year again, the time of year when we are all being forced to think about the holiday shopping season even before Halloween has come and gone. It's still warm outside and the store displays are now featuring Santa Claus and the newest glittering Christmas ornaments for your Christmas tree. So, I so what better time to begin thinking about how to approach our shopping techniques for the new holiday season.
We simply must make a commitment to not making the same mistakes we made last year - standing in the long lines, fighting the crowds, spending more than we budgeted, waiting until the absolute last minute or being the first in line on "Black Friday" (the day after Thanksgiving which traditionally marks the start of the holiday shopping season) and ultimately getting trampled over as we fight to get that discounted digital camera or flat screen television 9the deals weren't really that impressive this year anyway).
Instead, we are going to take the "Smarter Shopper Holiday Pledge"
I, (insert your name here), pledge to adhere to the ten holiday shopping tips outlined below. I realize that by not doing so, I may suffer the consequences of holiday shopper's remorse which include but are not limited to: loss of cash reserves, higher credit card debt, and near insanity from overexposure to large crowds, outrageous lines, and empty shelves.
1. I will use cash (what's that?). Using cash makes it easier to stay within the budget. This means that when you use up all of those nice dollars sitting in your purse/wallet then it is time to go home. Now, this is going to take some self-control and I struggle with it myself at the holiday season, but if you've got $100 for gifts, then don't push the budget and spend $101. No matter how wrapped up you get into the Christmas lights, music, and other smiling holiday shoppers carrying their large shopping bags, stay within your budget...cash will help you do that!
2. I will keep track of my credit card spending. Ok, if you absolutely must use a credit card, use the one with the lowest interest and know how you are going to pay off the credit card balance. Carrying balances obviously costs more than the item itself. So, that bargain that we got at the holidays is no longer a bargain 90 - 120 days later. Have a plan to pay off the holiday purchases. Additionally and just as important, know how much you are spending on those credit cards. You still need to set limits. It will be no fun to still be paying for last years presents next year (plus all that interest).
3. I will be patient. There's nothing like waiting in a long check out line and have to endure price check after price check or a declined credit card holder arguing with the cashier, or even a shift change just as you approach the register. However, we all know these things happen. Calm down and be patient. Avoid register rage at all costs or you could be spending your holiday season with Bubba and his buddies in a cell decorated with all things not-Christmas. If leaving the kids at home is an option because they'll add additional stress to your trip, do so (you are probably needing to shop for them anyway). Maybe just taking a deep breath will help. Just calm down and be patient.
4. I will start shopping early in the season and get it out of the way. Start shopping early and avoid those crowds at the malls and big box stores. Plus, you'll more likely be able to find that special item that will disappear off the shelves once the holiday shopping season kicks in to full gear.
5. I will give less expensive but creative gifts instead. Make a fruit basket, a batch of someone's favorite cookies, or even a couple of old movies (check those $5 bins at Walmart) Think outside the box to save money!
6. I will have a game plan. Don't leave the house without knowing exactly where you plan on going or you will end up going to five extra stores that you did not even plan on going. This will save you time as well as leave you some extra gas in your tank.
7. I will shop safely. Safer is better. Watch your personal belongings at all times including handbags, purchases, and children. Pay particular attention at the register when you can be distracted by the particulars of the transaction or outside in the parking lot or waiting (gasp) on public transportation. Do not let your credit card leave your sight. This still might not protect you totally from credit card fraud, but it is a big help. Be a safe shopper!
8. I will get enough rest. There's nothing like going out during the holiday shopping season and running out of steam. An important part of your shopping game plan should be to get plenty of rest the night before. Get a great start in the morning with a good breakfast and wear comfortable shoes. You should be all set to go. These type of shopping trips can sometimes go all day and night, especially if you're like a friend of mine who likes to literally shop until the stores close down, grabbing that last bargain on the rack as the last call announcement goes out over the intercom. Be prepared and get some rest.
9. I will not forget the bargains at the outlet malls. If you are in the Orlando area or heading down to Vero Beach and looking for a change, stop by one of the outlet malls for holiday bargains. It is a bit of a drive, but the prices can be well worth it. When we make a list of things to do outside of Brevard County, we often overlook the feasibility of the outlet malls. There are bargains on upscale merchandise from designers such as Kate Spade, Giorgio Armani, and Coach at the Belz Factory Outlets. Prime Factory Outlet Mall features retailers such as; and they are located just a hop, skip and jump away from Downtown Disney. And if you go to Vero Outlet Mall, you will find retailers including; Ralph Lauren.
10. I will attempt to avoid the crowds at all costs. Shopping earlier during the day or first thing Saturday morning will help avoid some of the crowd during the week and those late risers on Saturday or Sunday. Or if you like shop later in the evening, most stores will have extended holiday hours. Most people like to be at home by this time. This can work in your favor. There are fewer crowds in the evening.
Note: You could of course just do your shopping online but then that takes all of the "fun" out of the whole holiday shopping experience.
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