The Pros And Cons Of Last Minute Christmas Shopping
December 19, 2018I have a confession to make. I am a last-minute holiday shopper. If you have ever wondered who scavenges the picked over shelves on December 23rd and 24th, it’s me.
Why do I wait until the last minute?
First of all, it takes me a little while to get revved up for the season. I avoid anything Christmas-themed until after Thanksgiving, at which time it becomes unavoidable. Eventually, after attending a few holiday parties and watching Charlie Brown Christmas a couple of times, I am ready to attack the task about a week before the big day. My late shopping ways has it pros and cons.
Pros of last minute Christmas shopping
Fickle Christmas requests
My kids start campaigning for their ever-evolving Christmas lists in May. If we bought their gifts as they asked for them, they would forget what they asked for by the time Santa left them under the tree. I find it easier, unless they are really passionate about one thing, to zero in on what they really want closer to the actual day. Waiting to buy the presents also saves the concern about the kids finding our stash too.
Avoiding the doorbuster hype
Some late season deals are as good, if not better than the door buster/Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales. Also, I’ve found that I am just as likely to buy something for myself rather someone else when I start shopping earlier. Waiting keeps me focused.
It’s a better environment for hunter/gatherers
Those picked over shelves look great to a last-minute shopper because there is less choice – it is easier because you avoid decision fatigue. Also, the late crowd is all business. There are less people slowly perusing the store aisles humming holiday songs, so my patience isn’t tested – we are all on the same mission!
Reasons to avoid last minute Christmas shopping
It may increase stress
For some, holiday shopping later in the season is nerve wracking. They spend the entire month worried about finding what they want to give. That is no way spend the season. Last minute shopping is best suited for people who totally set aside the concern until they are ready to shop. If you are going to worry about procrastinating, don’t do it (as in, just get out there and shop already).
If there is no question about what gift you’ll buy, is it is better to get it as soon as possible
Sometimes that loved one is really clear about what they want. Other times you have a good idea regarding that extra special gift you would like to find. In those cases, it is better to set aside your personal preference and get it as soon as possible. The gift may be in high demand and therefore may go up in price due to scarcity.
Starting early gives you time to be strategic and find the best deal on that extra special present. Shopping online is a great way to avoid the traffic and crowds. Also, shopping early gives you plenty of time to deal with shipping delays.
Ironically, you must plan to procrastinate
If you plan to shop early or late, you will need to be prepared financially for the shopping. Our family has an overall limit on Christmas expenditures, regardless of the timing of the actual buying. We want to walk out of the season having created memories instead of financial regrets, and planning ahead financially allows that to happen.
Late holiday shopping is not for everybody. I have friends that complete their shopping in October and the gifts are wrapped before Thanksgiving – for them it gives them a better sense of peace and allows them to enjoy the season. But if you are slow to get motivated like me, use the tips above to make the most of your holiday shopping.