Holiday Shopping Crunch Time: 5 Ways to Shop Smart at the Last Minute

When it comes to holiday shopping for gifts, we often find ourselves in need of a few items we still need to shop for at the very last minute! And as most of us know, navigating the frenzy of the last-minute holiday shopping rush can be stressful!

But, instead of being frazzled this season, the team at Consolidated Community Credit Union (CCCU) have compiled these strategies to help you shop smartly, efficiently, and effectively. When the time for holiday gift shopping is running out, consider these smart shopping solutions to save time, money, and to keep you smiling this holiday season.

5 Ways to Shop Smart at the Last Minute During the Holidays

Smart Shopping Tip #1 - Create a Prioritized Shopping List

When it comes to holiday shopping, the best way to approach gift-buying is to make a list, just like good ‘ole Santa! Be sure to jot down all the people you want to shop for as well as possible gift ideas for each of them. Doing this in advance will help you prioritize specific people and gifts and will also help you stay focused so that you can avoid impulse purchases, which can be very tempting while holiday shopping during this time of year.

Smart Shopping Tip #2 - Leverage Online Shopping with Expedited Shipping

When shopping online for holiday gifts, the important thing is to make sure that they all arrive on time! To ensure prompt arrival and the best shipping deals, be sure to utilize retailers that offer free, same-day, or next-day delivery. It’s also a good idea to consider gift-giving that includes digital presents such as e-gift cards or online subscriptions that are efficiently delivered right on time. Add in the perk of no packaging or shipping, and that means they are an Earth friendly gift as well!

Smart Shopping Tip #3 - Use Click-and-Collect Services to Save Time 

When you have the chance to order gifts online and pick them up in-store, it is a smart and easy option for sure. When you use Click-and-Collect Services for holiday shopping, you save time and also get the luxury of having someone else do your holiday shopping for you. And…you don’t have to fight crowds and search all over the store to find your favorite gifts. In addition, there will be no surprise of empty shelves when you arrive at the store, as you are assured your chosen gifts are in stock and ready for you to pick up before even heading out into the holiday crowds. This offers a convenient and easy solution for quick holiday shopping in many Portland area stores.

Smart Shopping Tip #4 - Shop During Off-Peak Hours

If crowded stores and long check-out lines are not really your thing, be sure to take advantage of extended holiday store hours and shop during these off-peak hours for the best holiday shopping experience possible. When you make plans to visit your favorite stores during the early morning hours as soon as they open, you will have access to newly stocked shelves and fewer crowds to deal with. When you choose late night shopping hours, your reward will be empty stores and less traffic to contend with when looking for a parking spot at your favorite store or mall.

Smart Shopping Tip #5 - Look for Last-Minute Deals and Discounts 

Making smart shopping choices can get you through holiday gift-giving and shopping and keep you within your budget! Make it a point to use technology wisely for the best holiday shopping deals and seasonal discounts to be had! Be sure to check apps and websites for coupons, digital perks, and flash sales to save big when gift-giving. Also, do not hesitate to ask store personnel about any unadvertised in-store promotions they may have to offer during your in-person holiday shopping experience. Taking advantage of last-minute deals and discounts that stores are offering to rid their shelves of holiday items can mean big savings for your holiday budget!

Are You Ready for Stress-Free Holiday Shopping This Year?

It’s so easy to make your holiday shopping a breeze this year! From creating a custom, prioritized shopping list for gift-giving to shopping during off-peak hours to beat the crowds, these 5 Smart Shopping Strategies from CCCU can have you making stress-free smart shopping choices at your favorite Portland stores and malls this season. And when it comes to stress-free banking choices, our friendly team invites you to become a part of the family at CCUU. We have been serving the Portland community for over 70 years and look forward to working with you to achieve your financial goals. We are here and ready to help, so, contact us today to join CCCU or to learn more about how we can assist you!