Christmas Holiday Shopping 2010

The Christmas holidays are coming up and consumers and merchants are preparing for the holiday shopping frenzy. Consumer trends indicate that spending will not be more, or even less than in 2010 over 2009, so merchants are preparing to offer hard line discounting to entice wary shoppers.

With planning and carefully researched gift ideas, the consumers will make Christmas shopping on a budget a reality. Here are some tips to help save money this holiday shopping season.

The Obvious - Start with a Plan

Make a shopping list of all persons you plan to buy a gift for and how much you plan to spend. If funds are limited, divide the number of people by the dollar amount available to spend and this will give an average amount per gift. Impulsive purchases are expensive.

Start with the Internet

If you have never purchased gifts online before, then you are missing good Christmas gift ideas and good cost savings. With the bad economy, all retailers are discounting merchandise and some offer free shipping. Online savings are usually greater than inside retail stores.

Remember to shop around to different stores and add the shipping costs to the item to see if it is cheaper. Getting items shipped as soon as possible will ensure you have the gift by Christmas.

Online merchants have coupons and promotion codes frequently, especially through the holiday shopping. Always try Google to see if the merchant has a coupon code available. Be patient and look for a lower price.

Try Cash Only

Having cash only to make purchases will limit spending! If you are one that has difficulty staying within a budget, then making holiday gift purchases with cash makes it easier to stay in control of spending. If you overspend on one gift, then the next item must cost less. A limited supply of funds helps tone down spending.

Using Credit Cards

If you use a credit card, using one that offers rewards on retail goods saves money. Do not apply for any new credit cards during the holiday shopping season, even the ones offered by merchants. Being responsible with credit cards mean limiting the amount you carry. Avoid using credit card advances always.

Remember your reward points. Using reward points to make gift purchases can be a savings in the Christmas shopping experience.

Shopping for holiday gifts is supposed to be an enjoyable time, rather than a last minute shopping frenzy. Shop early and do not wait until the last minute. Rushed shopping costs money, as the budget will be is totally forgotten.

Stores will discount heavily near the end of the season, so if you must wait until late, shop during early and late store hours when the traffic is lighter to avoid the crowds. Remember to use good judgment and common sense and enjoy the holidays!