Shop Smart

The Holiday Shopping Season May Be In Full Swing But Doesn’t Mean You Have To Go Broke Swinging With It. Here Are 12 Tips Toward Keeping Your Cash

Compiled By D.A. Phillips

1.       Never Shop on Weekends – Busiest shopping days during holiday season.

2. Don’t be afraid to buy the same gift twice - If you find a gift that you know several people on your list would enjoy, don’t be afraid to buy it in multiples. This cuts down on your shopping time, and if the store is offering any kind of “Buy 1, get the second 1 at a discount” deal, that’s even better!

3.  Plan ahead for shopping, decide a spending limit and stick to it.

4. If possible, use cash instead of credit to avoid New Year new credit debt

5.  Make a list of those you are giving gifts to and what you are giving them. This plan saves time and indecisiveness in stores.

6.  Try to shop during the day, but if you do shop at night, do not do it alone.

7.  Save gas and time by shopping online, and use online coupons to save money

8. Some stores offer pick up service. Order items online and go right to the store to pick it up. Saves on time and avoids crowds.

9. Never leave your packages unattended

10. Keep cash in your front pocket.

11 When shopping at night, avoid using ATMs. Thieves hide in bushes or behind buildings waiting for late-night shoppers. Use a drive-thru or get cash during day hours; inside the bank preferably.

12.   Do not leave holiday purchases in your vehicle. Thieves patrol mall parking lots looking for unattended cars loaded with packages to break into.

13. Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. Consider bringing a security travel pouch instead.

14. Dress casually and comfortably including flat comfortable shoes. Leave your heels and expensive jewelry at home.

15. When you go shopping, be rested and try to have a good attitude and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Compiled from holiday-shopping-safety-tips  and 13-tips-for-shopping-smarter-during-the-holiday-season