Keep a general idea of how much you will spend on each person. For instance, you will likely spend more money on your immediate family than on a co-worker.
Check out sales throughout the year, such as at the end of summer. After-Christmas and Boxing Day sales are a good time to pick up wrapping paper and the like for the next year for a pittance. [2] X Research source
For instance, shopping will be done by December 20th. Put aside two evenings, twice a week for 2 weeks to accomplish this task. Leave some wiggle-room in case something comes up, but don’t keep making excuses. It can help to have someone who is good about shopping to keep you on track.
Have a designated area for presents, such as a tote, section of closet, or attic. Be sure that the present won’t be ruined by variations of temperature, humidity, mold, mice, and so on. Write the name of the designated gift-receiver on a removable sticker or piece of tape. That way you’ll remember who you bought it for. If you change your mind, it’s easy to re-designate. Cross their name off the list as soon as possible to avoid forgetting that you already bought them something.
Make storage space. Check the freezer, pantry and refrigerator for space that can be spared to contain all of the Christmas goodies you’re purchasing ahead of time.
Store these out of the way in the basement, pantry floor or other area where they won’t be disturbed or subject to temperature extremes.
Nuts and Nibbles Chips, pretzels, and crackers Canned foods Frozen foods, including frozen desserts Candies and candied fruits Ice cream Some root vegetables, pumpkins Gingerbread and other spiced cookies Commercially made Christmas cake, puddings, mince pies Long-life milk, bread wraps, cookies, etc.
Make things easier by having a family member do all the pick-ups. Provide them with a list and locations for pickups, then send them on their way.
Store everything in one part of the refrigerator or use a second one if you have another.
