Gift buying can certainly be a time of over complication. Lists, budgets and people’s wishes all factor in when making decisions about what to buy. Here are seven ways to make the holiday gift buying experience a little less complicated:
1. Start Early
Don’t wait until the week before the holiday to think about what to get. This may cause you to spend too much money and choose something that person may not want.
2. Create a Master List Way Ahead of Time
Take the time to create a list of every person and animal you are planning to buy a gift for so you won’t forget anyone.
3. Year Around Amazon
Create a wish list on Amazon to stash potential gifts for people throughout the year when they mention a desired product. When the time comes for purchasing, you have it all organized and ready with thoughtful, wanted gifts.
4. Budget in Advance
You need to think about a budget months in advance due to miscellaneous costs that creep up on you. Not thinking about this may cause severe overspending and make the holidays a not-so-simple time.
5. It Doesn’t Have to Be Techy All the Time
Remember, people like the simple things in life too. Maybe a simple jar of locally made honey for a tea lover or locally brewed coffee for a coffee aficionado might be more meaningful than an iPhone dock.
6. Don’t Buy Just for the Sake of Buying
We all know people who seem impossible to buy gifts for. It is ok to give a gift card and let them choose what they want.
7. Consolidate Gifts
Consider buying one gift that all the kids can use or a gift that will benefit all the adults in the household. This can save you money and stress.
In essence, planning and preparation are the keys to simplifying your buying. Take time to budget, shop online and consider the people on your list in order to make gift buying a simplified experience.