While the holiday season may seem far away, it will be here before you know it. The malls will get crowded, stores will be promoting their holiday specials, and you’ll be dodging seasonal decorations while scouring for the one item your loved one said they wanted months ago. Imagine what it would feel like if, when that time came, you were done (or almost done) with your shopping. Take a look at a few reasons why starting now could be the best decision you’ve made.
More time means less on your credit card. Holiday gifts could rack up a price tag of hundreds of dollars. Space out gift buying over the next few months so you aren’t purchasing it all at once. Rein in the excessive spending by committing to only pay with cash or debit card. AskTheMoneyCoach.com suggests doing this so you don’t overuse credit cards and a end up with unnecessary debt.
Great deals are happening now. Retailers don’t just put merchandise on sale around the holidays. Most are trying to get rid of current inventory to make way for the next season’s items. For example, items that are most commonly marked down now include outdoor gear, sunglasses and bicycles.
Shop at home. Don’t forget the benefits of shopping online. You can be in your pajamas, with no crowds around you, shopping at your leisure. Also, if there are items you want that aren’t out yet, many retailers like Amazon.com have a pre-order option. Then, when it is released, you are guaranteed the item, and it will come straight to your house. No waiting in line needed.
Gift assurance. Once the popular items are gone, they won’t come back until after the holidays. By shopping now, you are making sure to get the exact toy, gadget or trinket your loved ones are hoping for.