How to Start Christmas Shopping Early & Avoid the Holiday Rush
Christmas season is a magical time, but let’s be real—sometimes the to-do list gets a bit overwhelming.
Between holiday gatherings, family traditions, & making time to just soak in the season, last-minute shopping can quickly turn the festive spirit into holiday stress.
But this year? We’re getting ahead of it. With a little planning & a few smart tips, you can waltz through December feeling calm, collected, & fully present. Here’s your guide to an early, stress-free Christmas shopping experience that’ll make the holiday season feel oh-so-merry.
Early Shopping Tips to Avoid the Holiday Rush:
+ Set a Budget
The best way to keep holiday cheer intact? Start with a budget. It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday magic, but setting a spending cap helps keep everything in perspective. Map out a total budget, then break it down by person or gift category. Remember, meaningful doesn’t have to mean expensive! Thoughtful gifts come in all price ranges. You can even use a budgeting app if you like to keep things digital (highly recommend for tracking those spontaneous coffee runs & cozy winter splurges, too!).
+ Create a Gift List
With a budget in place, it’s time to make your list & check it twice. Write down everyone you’d like to gift this year, including any backup ideas for those tricky ones who have everything. Personally, I love having a digital list that I can update on the go—it’s like a holiday master plan in your pocket. & don’t forget about stocking stuffers or little host gifts if you’re headed to holiday gatherings. Having your list ready means no last-minute surprises!
+ Prioritize Sales & Promotions
One of the best parts about starting early? Catching those amazing sales! Keep an eye on early Black Friday deals, November promotions, & random flash sales. Subscribing to your favorite stores’ email lists can be super helpful for scoring exclusive deals (just remember to unsubscribe after the holidays if your inbox needs a little breather). For some added savings, check out cash-back sites like Rakuten or apps like Honey that find hidden discounts—every bit helps!
+ Shop Small & Support Local Businesses
There’s something extra special about gifting handmade or unique finds, & local businesses have so many gems just waiting to be discovered. Plus, shopping small means you’re supporting makers, artists, & local shops in your community. Hit up a holiday market or browse your favorite online small businesses before stock runs low. Early shopping here ensures you won’t miss out on that one-of-a-kind gift & adds a layer of meaning to your holiday giving.
+ Consider DIY Gifts & Personalized Presents
If you’re a fan of putting a personal touch on gifts, you’re in the perfect spot to start a little DIY project or find personalized items that take a bit longer to make. Homemade treats, bath goodies, or thoughtful crafts make lovely, affordable gifts that come straight from the heart. & if you’re looking for something extra memorable, custom gifts—like photo books or engraved keepsakes—are thoughtful treasures that show just how much you care.
+ Use Online Shopping Tools
Online shopping can be your best friend, especially with a few helpful tools. Try browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten to score deals & earn cash back with every purchase. Load up your digital wish lists, add items to your cart, & wait for price drops. Just keep an eye on shipping estimates, especially for custom orders, so nothing gets held up. There’s nothing like having everything wrapped & ready without a hint of last-minute stress!
+ Plan for Shipping Deadlines & Avoid the Rush
Speaking of shipping, the earlier you shop, the easier it is to skip the last-minute rush. Make sure to check delivery timelines, especially if you’re ordering from small or international businesses. I know November isn’t THAT early, but you still have some time to choose standard shipping rather than paying for express. Plus, shopping now means you’ll be able to cozy up & enjoy the wrapping process, no frantic midnight sessions required.
+ Stock Up on Wrapping Supplies
Here’s a fun part of holiday prep: wrapping! Getting supplies early means you won’t have to scramble when stores are picked over. Look for eco-friendly options like reusable fabric wraps or recyclable paper for a little extra holiday goodness. Stocking up on ribbons, tags, & even a few pretty gift boxes now will make wrapping day feel like a relaxing holiday activity, not a last-minute dash.
Getting a head start on holiday shopping isn’t just about gifts—it’s about setting yourself up for a season of calm, joy, & cozy moments. By tackling things early, you’re gifting yourself time to truly enjoy the season, savor traditions, & soak up every bit of holiday magic.
So, grab a mug of something warm, put on your favorite holiday playlist, & let’s make this the best, most relaxed Christmas yet.
See you soon!
– L
xx