To buy or not to buy? If you’re looking for a great deal this holiday season, we have the answers. Between holiday celebrations, decorations, and gifts, December can be one of the most stressful and expensive months of the year when it comes to shopping. Now is the time to figure out when and where to go for those last-minute deals to ensure everyone on your list has something to unwrap, including yourself.
Toys and Games – Buy Now
The latest gadgets and gizmos have hit the shelves and you’re eager to cross these items off your list. As noted in last month’s What to Buy When, the best time to get toys is mid-December. If you can hold off on rushing out December 1st, you’ll find that the middle of the month is the time to get the perfect holiday season sale price before the last-minute shoppers drive them back up.
For our friends in Canada, we recommend these awesome deals from Toys “R” Us Canada, and for our American shoppers, Family Dollar’s Toy Book has loads of toys to choose from.
Cosmetics Gift Sets – Buy Now
It’s gift-giving season, so it’s no surprise that you’ll see lots of deals for cosmetics gift sets. These sets have skincare and perfumes of smaller sizes, which not only makes this a great gift for your loved ones, but also an inexpensive way for you to try out some cool, new products. Take advantage of these deals now and figure out if you want to buy the full-size product later.
Browse gift sets from Macy’s if you’re in the U.S., or Hudson’s Bay if you’re in Canada.
At-Home Apparel – Buy Now
Everyone loves comfy pajamas over the colder months, and now is the time to treat your loved ones. From sweaters, slippers, fluffy socks, and more, your favorite retailers are offering deals on the comfiest at-home apparel.
Check out these cozy apparel deals from Target, or Giant Tiger’s Holiday lookbook if you live up North.
Cookware and Tableware – Buy Now
The holidays wouldn’t be the same without delicious food, which is why this is the perfect time to upgrade your cooking utensils, glassware, and serving dishes. Whether you’re looking for a new set of pots and pans or some festive dishes to dress up your holiday meals, Flipp has hundreds of deals to choose from.
For our U.S. readers, we recommend the Bed Bath & Beyond Holiday Guide. For our Canadian readers, Canadian Tire has deals-a-plenty!
Gift Cards – Buy Now
Gift cards are a staple during the holidays. A good rule of thumb is to always buy them straight from the store or retailer, as prepaid credit cards often include hidden fees. Gift cards will help reduce the worry of finding that last-minute gift. Plus, everyone likes free money!
TVs and Electronics – Buy Later
The majority of great deals for electronics and TVs last month happened during Black Friday sales, but if you didn’t snag a good deal, don’t fret! There will still be some lingering sales into December. However, you’ll see the prices begin to rise the closer we get to Christmas. Canadian shoppers might see some worthwhile Boxing Day sales on December 26th, but if you can, hold out until the new year. Better deals will come!
Fine Jewelry – Buy Later
Although diamonds and other fine jewelry might be on the “treat yourself” list, we recommend that you treat yourself to better prices in February and March. Jewelers will be competing for those Valentine’s Day dollars, which means more money in your pocket when you buy yourself some bling.
Outdoor Gear – Buy Later
As we’re getting ready for winter, retailers are stocking their virtual shelves with their latest outerwear and gear. Hold off on buying that new jacket or set of ice skates until later into the season if you want a better deal.
Although there’s a lot to unwrap this holiday season, follow these simple guidelines to treat yourself and loved ones to some merry and bright deals. Happy shopping!
