Caught in the Last Minute Christmas Rush? Enjoy These Last-Minute Shopping Tips!

Do you have some last-minute Christmas shopping to do? Are you just starting your shopping? If so, here are some quick tips to help you get the shopping done quickly so that you can come home, wrap the presents and then enjoy the remainder of Christmas Eve.

Don't run around town

Don't run from one big box store to another - you don't have time! The clock is ticking and you probably only have until 5:00 or 6:00 to finish your shopping. Not only will you have to fight with the lineups in the stores but you'll also have to deal with the crazy traffic lining the streets. If you only have one last gift to pick up it’s okay to head to one of the big box stores to finish your shopping but if you're just starting, it will be a frustrating experience to drive around town - not to mention the ordeal of finding a parking space!

Go to a mall

Head over to a mall where you can park once and get all of your shopping done as a one-shot deal. There is always plenty of selection available and if all else fails you can simply pick up gift certificates for the mall at the customer service kiosk.

Gift certificates

When you're at the mall you can keep things simple by purchasing gift certificates at select stores. If, for example, you have someone on your list that enjoys chocolate, look for a store that sells exotic chocolate. By simply writing down what everyone likes on your list and then narrowing down the stores that sell these items, you can pick up some gift cards and have your shopping done in an hour or two.

Wear comfortable shoes

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking so dress accordingly. Don't get dressed up in fancy high heels - wear running shoes instead. You may end up walking a mile or two around the mall during your last minute shopping excursion!