The holiday season is upon us and shopping for presents may be near the top of your to-do list. From carefully considering gifts for friends and family to finding the best deal available, holiday shopping can quickly get expensive if you aren’t well-prepared. That’s why we have compiled this list of seven shopping tips that you may find helpful in making the most of your budget and saving time this holiday season.

1. Utilize a shopping list
Using a shopping list when purchasing presents can be vital in staying on track and within your budget. You are less likely to drift off course and make impulse purchases with a list, and a list will help you stay within your predetermined budget.

Bonus Tip: Prioritize the items on your list from most important to least important. That way, you will be sure to purchase the most essential items first.
 

2. Buy with intention, not because it’s a ‘good deal’
One of the most important points to consider when holiday shopping is to purchase your items with intention. Refrain from buying items simply because they are on sale for a fraction of their normal cost, but rather because they serve a purpose for the person you are buying for.

Bonus Tip: Consider taking the ‘less is more’ approach, and purchasing a thoughtful gift rather than less meaningful ones.
 

3. Follow retailers on social media
Having the scoop on which items are for sale will go a long way in helping to maximize your savings this holiday season. As you are planning your shopping list, visit the social media pages of different retailers, and plan accordingly. Checking a retailer’s social media feeds frequently will give you a better chance to spot any pop-up or temporary sales that you may have otherwise missed.

Bonus Tip: Sign up for retailer email lists to further maximize your savings.
 

4. Don’t forget Cyber Monday!
It’s easy to be swept away by Black Friday shopping, but don’t forget about Cyber Monday! This is a day devoted to online shopping, with great deals available from retailers across the Internet. With so many retailers participating, you have an added chance to save money on tech products, home goods, and more.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to set aside some time on Cyber Monday to spend shopping for great deals on your list.
 

5. Compare prices online
To help ensure you are getting the best deal, use your smartphone to shop around and check prices at various stores prior to your purchase. This way, you’ll be certain you’re getting the best deal available at the time.

Bonus Tip: Many retailers have price-match policies if you find a better deal somewhere else.
 

6. Don’t wait until the last minute
It can be tempting to wait until the last minute to start your shopping, but this can cost you more money. If you put everything off until the last minute for shopping, you are more likely to forget an item or make an impulse buy.

Bonus Tip: Plan your shopping trips and spread them throughout the season to avoid shopping fatigue or accidentally forgetting a gift.
 

7. If using credit, consider your lowest interest options
If you are using a credit card to finance part of your holiday shopping this year, consider your lowest interest options first because utilizing the right card can help you save money in the long run. Some department store cards or other credit cards charge large amounts of interest, and this can add up quickly.

It is important to be well-prepared and have a plan when it comes to holiday shopping. With these seven tips, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the names on your gift list. Stay ahead of your budget (and shopping) this holiday season, so you can spend more time making memories with your loved ones.

This article is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.