In the Philippines, Christmas celebration is anticipated as early as September, the start of the “ber” months. As soon as Halloween is over, radio stations start playing Christmas songs, malls start decorating, and people start shopping for gifts.
Shopping can be a headche since a malls are usually crowded since a lot of people flock to the malls look for bargains. The shopping rush can become very stressful and sometimes costly if not planned ahead.
Here are 5 Simple Christmas Chopping Tips that will help you prepare and make your Christmas shopping experience quite enjoyable.
1. Make a List. List down the people you’re going to buy gifts for. If possible, write down the your planned gift per person and the amount you’re willing to spend. This will make shopping a lot easier and will help you spend within your budget.
2. Canvass First. Use your initial list to help groups the gifts which you can buy from the same store. Compare prices and by window shopping. It is also better to shop where there’s a sale so you can save. Your gifts need not be expensive. What’s important is the quality of the products.
3. Decide Where to Buy. After you have canvassed, decide where to buy, taking into consideration the distance, price and quality of products. Compute the amount of money you’re going to save from a bargain to the amount you will spend in going there.
4. Make a Schedule. Arrange your schedule so that you will not be doing anything else on the chosen date except shopping. Rushing will make you vulnerable to impulse buying and making decisions you’re bound to regret later.
5. Wear Comfortable Clothes. Your movement can be hampered by bulky clothes. Bring a bag which is secure and put your wallet inside. Avoid wearing jewelry and if possible avoid taking out your cellphones in public.
Remember, it’s the thought that counts. Your gifts need not be expensive as long as they are heartily given.
