Five Tips for Painless Last-Minute Holiday Shopping

Suffice it to say, the holiday season is one of the most stressful times of year. It seems virtually impossible to find the perfect gift for all the people adorning your list. Furthermore, that pressure is intensified when the holiday shopping must take place at the "last minute."

Lucky for you, the retail community at large is prepared for all the people in the world who prefer (and those who don't) to do all their Christmas bidding up until the "final hour." Procuring all those special holiday treats does not have to be a mind-boggling experience. Follow a few of these tips, and you'll see that sometimes last-minute shopping is the most painless of all.

SHOP ONLINE

I know what you're thinking. You're thinking that it's too close to the Big Day for you to order products online. But you're wrong. First and foremost, there is such a thing as express shipping. Sure, it's going to cost you a bit more than waiting for the standard 4-8 week deliveries (on some items.) But if you're really trying to avoid the Christmas rush in stores and shopping malls, online shopping is definitely the way to go.

As a matter of fact, if you have an extensive list of loved ones to shop for, then you might even consider doing all your shopping on one or two websites. Some online vendors offer free shipping options if you spend up to, or over a certain amount of money. This way you cover all your bases. And all you have to do is sit back, wait for the Postman Santa to arrive, and wrap your gifts!

SHOP "UNPOPULAR" STORES

It really does pay to be unconventional when it comes to purchasing presents for family and friends during the holidays. For instance, if you have a friend who is an artist, shop for his/her gift at an art supply store. Typically, specialty stores are less crowded than major retail chains and department stores. You will find fewer crowds. And more often than not, these stores will have superb holiday sales as well. You can pick up a gift that your friend will love and need. And you've saved yourself the headache of standing in long lines.

If you're really stumped as to where to shop, try one of the most hidden gems of all time: the drugstore. Many drugstores like CVS Pharmacy and Walgreen's have an aisle dedicated to popular gift items. Because they are stocked in a pharmacy environment, they are sometimes priced less than if they were stocked on a shelf at an expensive store with high overhead. You can find all sorts of goodies like electric blankets, massagers, and even toys.

Another option is to hit up the vintage and thrift stores in your area. All holiday presents don't have to be "new." If your gift recipient is an avid collector of vintage jewelry, then this is perfect to place in which to shop. Again, these stores also offer holiday discounts. While it may be a bit more difficult to find exactly what you're looking for, you can be assured that you'll encounter fewer people (depending upon your area) than those lining up for the PS3. Use a little creativity, and you will not only find bargains, but you'll also spend less effort to acquire them.

TIMING

Sometimes it's all in the timing. People are constantly advising each other that the "early bird gets the worm." This may be true in most cases. People lining up to get their fingers on the latest and greatest electronic equipment will certainly agree with this sentiment. However, during the holiday rush EVERYONE wants to be the early bird. This means that everyone arrives at malls and department stores at the same time.

Not only does this wreak havoc on packed parking lots and traffic, it's also a major headache. Try shopping toward the END of the day, approximately 2-3 hours before the mall closes. Most people who shop during Christmas time do so early in the day so as to get home to take care of other errands and chores. Therefore, parking lots (and stores alike) are beginning to empty as the day draws to a close. You're more likely to find a parking space and get into and out of the mall a little more easily since more people are leaving.

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Most shoppers frown upon acquiring a series of gift certificates for their loved ones, because it implies that no thought was given to the person's needs, likes, or wishes. But sometimes a gift certificate is more appreciated than actually receiving a physical present. The trick to avoiding insulting your gift recipient is to choose your certificate carefully.

Think about his/her hobbies and spending habits. Is she a Victoria's Secret "addict?" If so, then she will unquestionably appreciate a hefty gift card to this trendy boutique. Almost all stores offer gift certificates of some sort. The secret to making this gift idea work is being as specific to your recipient's personality as possible.

CUT CORNERS

If you really want to cut corners this holiday season, why not make the gifts yourself. Artists can paint portraits and have them framed, or produce other personal works of art. These make wonderful gifts because not only is the gesture appreciated, but the recipient also feels special by owning a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork. You do not have to be an artist in order to create a gift. For instance, create your own customized gift basket.

Craft stores sell supplies such as the baskets themselves, shrink wrap, and other packing materials. All you need to do is fill the basket with your recipients' favorite items. Because you're creating the gift, you can fill the basket with whatever kinds of items you like. People love receiving gifts like these because of their customized nature.

Don't believe the hype about holiday shopping. It does not have to be a pain in the proverbial rear. Some families do not even exchange gifts until after the shopping rush is over. This is also a good option if you're short on time or cash. The point behind giving gifts to loved ones is to show how much you care. The amount of love shown in gift giving should never be determined by what date the gifts are received, or how much they cost.