Top 5 Tips for Last-Minute Holiday Shoppers to Score the Best Deal

Don’t resort to a sub-par gift for those near and dear to you just because the clock is ticking! For the last-minute scurrying shoppers out there, put together a gift package with a friend or family member’s favourite magazine, treats and beauty products – it can be a simple yet thoughtful way to give a gift without having to plan in advance. It's all about presentation - even items bought at your local drugstore can be a touching gift when the thought and effort is put into the presentation. One of the best ways to do this simply – and economically – is to group all of the items into a personalized stocking.

You can also give the gift of an experience that keeps on giving. Is there a training course or class you know someone on your list has always talked about taking? Don’t forget about gift cards to their favourite retailer for a shopping spree! A trip your friend has always wanted to take is also a special gift. Now is the perfect time to give that extra special gift. Look for great deals on items like travel. Even if you score a great deal, check RetailMeNot.ca to see if you can get an additional discount on popular travel sites like Travelocity.ca In fact, only 9 per cent of Canadians plan to purchase travel for themselves this holiday season, so why not give your loved ones a break and put a trip under the tree this year.

As the holiday countdown continues, you can maximize those final precious weeks by avoiding line ups and crowds wherever possible. Many of your favourite retailers have extended shopping hours in the weeks leading up to the holiday season. Take advantage and beat the crowds by shopping early. For instance, take an extra half hour in the morning and hit up the mall with a plan! You’ll be surprised how easy it is to finish your shopping, leaving your evenings free for holiday parties and events And don’t forget – there are never line-ups when you shop online! Many online retailers offer next and even same day shipping, perfect for those last-minute gifts on your list. Before checking out, look online for a free coupon code to cut your shipping costs.

If you're anything like me, you already take your smartphone everywhere you go. This holiday season, use it your advantage. Put your shopping list in your smartphone so it's at your finger tips. This will allow you to maximize your shopping time while on the go. If you are waiting in a long store line-up, do a quick search on a coupon site to score an extra discount. Many of your favourite retailers also have apps so you can shop on the go. Don’t forget about online shopping. The next time you get stuck in line at the bank or in the waiting room for an appointment, see if you can cross an item or two off your list by shopping on your smartphone or tablet. Many retailers will offer expedited shipping to make it in time for the holidays.

A recent RetailMeNot.ca survey revealed that 81 per cent of Canadians see nothing wrong with picking up an item or two for themselves while holiday shopping for others – and nearly a quarter of you said you sometimes come home with items for yourself instead of gifts for others! Not to worry - you can still treat yourself without blowing your holiday budget. If you're using a credit or charge card to buy your holiday gifts, use the points you accumulate with your holiday spending to treat yourself – without the guilt. Additionally, look for buy one, get one offers to get two items for the price of one. Make the most of those points by combining those savings with Boxing Day deals and shopping online with your favourite e-tailers. Thanks for tuning in. For more savvy spending tips, head to SmartCookies.com, and to search for deals, visit RetailMeNot.ca. Happy holidays!