Christmas shopping can be one of the most stressful tasks of the year, especially if left until the last minute. To avoid the chaos and expense, it’s a good idea to start your Christmas shopping early. Here’s why and how you should start planning and purchasing those perfect presents well ahead of time.

Why Start Early?

1. Save Money: Christmas can be an expensive time of year, but planning ahead allows you to take advantage of sales and discounts throughout the year. This means you can spread the cost, avoid the December price hikes, and save a significant amount of money.
2. Reduce Stress: The festive season should be a time of joy, not stress. By shopping early, you can avoid the last-minute rush, the crowded shops, and the pressure of finding the perfect gift at the eleventh hour.
3. Better Selection: Shopping early means you have a wider selection of items to choose from. Popular items often sell out quickly during the festive rush, but if you shop early, you’re more likely to find exactly what you’re looking for.
4. Enjoy the Festive Season: Imagine how wonderful it would feel to have all your gifts wrapped and ready by the time December rolls around. You can then relax, enjoy the Christmas markets, sip on mulled wine, and truly embrace the festive spirit.

Key Dates for Early Christmas Shopping

To maximise savings and spread the cost, here are some key shopping dates to mark on your calendar:

1. Boxing Day Sales: The day after Christmas is a great time to start your shopping for the next year. You can find massive discounts on a wide range of products. Plus, those unwanted gift vouchers can be put to good use.
2. Blue Monday (Third Monday in January): Known as the most depressing day of the year, retailers often offer discounts to lift spirits. While the deals might not be as extensive as other sales, it’s still worth a look.
3. Easter Sales: Many shops have sales around Easter. It’s a great time to pick up gifts, especially if you’re looking for something special.
4. Summer Sales: During the summer, many fashion retailers offer significant discounts on winter stock. This is the perfect opportunity to buy jumpers and coats at a fraction of the price.
5. Black Friday (End of November): One of the biggest shopping events of the year. Plan ahead, make a list of items you want, and you’re likely to find some incredible deals.
6. Cyber Monday (The Monday after Black Friday): If you missed out on Black Friday, Cyber Monday offers another chance to grab discounts, particularly on tech and online-exclusive items.

Real Voices: When Do People Start Their Christmas Shopping?

We asked a few people from across the UK when they start their Christmas shopping:

• Paul – Aged 37 (Graphic Designer): “Generally, I start in November, but I’m never really done until the last minute.”
• Della – Aged 36 (Housewife): “I used to be really bad, leaving it until the last minute. In recent years I’ve been a lot better, if I see something as early as September, I’ll get it.”
• Lee – Aged 35 (Mobile DJ): “I’d like to say I’m organised, but I’m not. I don’t start until mid December, I try to get it all in one go, whether that be online or at the shops.”
• Neil – Aged 36 (Poker Player): “I’m pretty good, I start early and make sure I’ve got my wife’s presents before December. The rest of my family and friends I pick off gradually as and when.”
• Michelle – Aged 41 (School Teacher): “I must admit, I’m one of these people who shops throughout the year, I can’t take the stress of leaving it last minute.”
• Lisa – Aged 53 (Office Worker): “I try to get it done early, I’ve been known to regift a few unwanted presents too haha.”

Tips for Starting Your Christmas Shopping Early

1. Make a List: Start by making a list of everyone you need to buy for and ideas for gifts. This will help you stay organised and focused.
2. Set a Budget: Decide how much you want to spend overall and on each person. This will help you avoid overspending.
3. Track Sales: Keep an eye on sales and discounts throughout the year. Sign up for newsletters from your favourite retailers to stay informed about upcoming deals.
4. Buy Throughout the Year: Whenever you see something that would make a great gift, buy it. Keep a designated storage space at home for Christmas gifts.
5. Use Cashback Sites: Websites like Quidco and TopCashback offer cashback on purchases from a variety of retailers. This is an easy way to save a little extra money on your Christmas shopping.
6. Homemade Gifts: Consider making some of your gifts. Homemade jams, knitted scarves, or personalised photo albums can be very special and appreciated.

Free Tools and Resources for Early Christmas Shopping

1. Budget Tracker: Create a simple budget tracker using Excel or Google Sheets to keep track of your spending and stay within your budget.
2. Gift List App: Use a free app like Giftster or Santa’s Bag to keep track of your gift ideas and purchases.
3. Sale Alerts: Websites like HotUKDeals can alert you to the best deals and sales happening throughout the year.
4. Cashback Websites: Sign up for cashback websites to earn money back on your purchases.
5. Price Comparison Tools: Use tools like Google Shopping or PriceSpy to compare prices and ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Conclusion

Starting your Christmas shopping early can save you money, reduce stress, and allow you to fully enjoy the festive season. By taking advantage of sales throughout the year and staying organised, you can find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list without the last-minute panic. So why not start today? Embrace the joy of giving and make this Christmas the best one yet.

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