5 Don'ts of Christmas Shopping

Each year hundreds of thousands head to the malls or online retailers to purchase Christmas gifts with zeal. Shopping for gifts can either be stressful or looked at like a sport with a steady game plan to victory. During shopping there are so many things to remember that you may not find them important until after the last gift is wrapped and given. If you are that gift giver who usually feels more stressed after the holiday spending spree check out these five don'ts that may reduce your stress.

Don't go over your budget

Though this is on many shoppers minds; it tends to be one thing that is hard to follow. Every parent wants their child to have the best of what's on the market but that doesn't mean its going to be affordable. Every friend wants to buy a special gift for their closest friends but spending $200 on each person is most likely going to be out of the price range. Regardless of what your gift giving intentions are remember to create a budget before making that first purchase. Buying for ten people can get out of control if you over shoot each gift price by a simple $25 dollars.

Don't Over Indulge

It's wonderful to purchase the best of everything for your loved ones but indulging in every little whim is going to be difficult unless you have a disposable income. Although it may be a hard lesson learned you may have to tell your children or family members "no" to some of the items on their Christmas list.

Don't Throw Away Your Receipt

No matter how full of receipts your wallet becomes do not throw them away until some time after the holidays. Depending on the purchased items you may need to make returns and many stores will only give a store credit with the lowest sale price if you don't have a receipt for the proof of purchase. You will also be able to use your receipt as proof for a Sales Price Adjustment; commonly referred to as a SPA.

Don't Forget Shipping Charges

When you're creating your budget and making a list of gifts it's important to include the cost of shipping and handling. Obviously, heavier items will cost more to ship and the shipping fees may cause you to go over your budget. Do remember to ask the sales clerk if they are offering any type of shipping amenities. For example, Talbots Clothing store offers shipping for $7.50 no matter how many items are in the package. The purchase can be made directly at the store and sent from the same location so there is no hassle of carrying to packages to the post office.

Don't Feel Obligated

Unfortunately, every year there's someone you would like to add to your list for gift giving but the circumstances just won't allow it. Finances may be tight or you've decided that you are only giving gifts to your closest relatives. If this is the case there is no need to feel guilty about it. Everyone's circumstances are different and there is no reason to cause further stress during the holidays if it's not necessary.