Early Christmas Shopping: 6 Tips to Stretch Your Peso

It pays to be early. Time and time again, this famous line stands true. Whether you're early for your appointment or early to settle credit card obligations, you're sure to avoid unnecessary hassles. Now that it's only 48 days before Christmas, it won't hurt if we plan early for the holiday shopping. Below are some shopping tips in order to stretch out your peso and make it work to your advantage:

The tree says it all.

I need to do some Christmas gift shopping.

1. Know your budget and come up with a list.

Before proceeding to your shopping spree, determine how much would you be willing to allot for Christmas-related expenses. Although this day is considered as one of the most important holidays for Filipinos, it does not mean that we have to drain out our savings to celebrate. Make sure to stick to your budget in order to avoid financial troubles come January. Also keep in mind that not only do we spend for presents but we also buy food for the family's Noche Buena and also for the visitors on Christmas Day. 

Additionally, it is always best to have a shopping list just like when you go about your regular trips to the grocery. This list would ensure that you don't miss out anything important and at the same time, you wouldn't resort to impulsive buying. 

2. Try online shopping.

Unless you've been living under a rock, you must know by now that going online does not only allow you to connect with friends through social networks but also this makes shopping more convenient. Web stores are growing each day and you'll definitely find a good deal. Most of the time, the cost of items online are cheaper as compared to its price when purchased in a physical store or outlet.

Virtual stores found in eBay, Sulit and Multiply would make your gift hunting a breeze. At the same time, voucher sites like CashCashPinoy, Awesome!, Deal Grocer, MetroDeal and Groupon are now the go-to shops if you are looking for premium items and services with big discounts.

Christmas Goodies from South Supermarket

3. It is best to shop early.

As Christmas approaches, the prices of gifts and food items all go up. Therefore, it is not unusual if you find some individuals doing their shopping as early as September. You may also buy your kids' "pamasko" as soon as you can since holiday fashion is already on sale in department stores as soon as Halloween is over. However, for food items, make sure to stock up your pantry with non-perishable goods such as pastas and canned fruits and sauces. 

4. Buy a great gift with the help of others.

It would be great if you could receive one useful gift than having lots of small ones without any use for you. However, most of the time, this great gift has an equally great price tag. In order to make your gift meaningful, ask others to help you finance that item. For example, you want to give your parents a TV set. Tell your siblings that whatever is the amount of the item, it will be divided among you.

Christmas Gift (photo by Danilo Rizzuti)

5. Understand fully what you are paying for.

Before handing over your cash or swiping your credit card, understand what is included in your purchase. If for instance, you plan to buy a game console, be particular as what is included in the package. It's either you miss an important component or you get extras that are really not necessary in its operation. Make sure you understand what you are looking for before going to the store.

6. Don't forget the receipts.

It is a standard that stores issue a receipt. Make sure to keep them for each of your purchases. In case the item suddenly breaks down, it is the only proof of purchase you can bring to the store. If you are buying the item as a gift, you can also ask for a gift receipt instead. This would enable the receiver to have the item replaced if for example, the size is incorrect.

For women, shopping is not a stressful task. However, if you are out of time, you can't help but feel the pressure in doing this job. Try out these six tips and drive out the worry instead of the merry this Christmas season.