Well, it’s almost that time of year again folks!

You know what I mean. That “most wonderful time of the year,” and yet in reality, the lead up to it can feel more like absolute chaos.

No matter how organized we say we’ll be, the idea and impending task of Christmas shopping seems to send the majority of us into a sense of madness. That fear that creeps up on us, before the hurried dash to buy all those last minute gifts.

So, to take some of the stress out of seasonal present preparations, here are six tips to help those of you beat the rush, subdue the panic, and meet that looming deadline for fantastic gifts.

 

1. Shop online

So many of us hate going into the shops at this busy time of year, especially men. Let’s admit it. How many of us have done the last minute race to buy a gift? However, you don’t have to worry, online shopping can reduce the hassle, and you don’t have to go anywhere. No crowds, no car park rage, it’s a Christmas miracle!

Yes, shopping online may be considered more of a millennial idea, but so long as you plan, sites such as Yellow Octopus can have your man’s perfect gift to him ready in time for the main day.

 

2. Get in first

If you are brave (or crazy) enough to front up to the retail stores in the last few days, plan your shopping time. Get to the shopping centre/mall early enough so that you can map out the stores.

If you have to drive a fair distance, plan your quickest route to get there. This can help reduce the stress of parking and the mass of crowds as you try to get to the corresponding store for each related gift.

 

3. Make a list

We all know how Santa’s song goes “…He’s making a list and checking it twice.”

However, when working to a deadline, taking a tip from the jolly man and making a list probably isn’t such a bad idea. Write out all the gifts and corresponding people for whom you want to buy a gift and mark them off as you purchase each one.

Then check that you have bought for all on your list. This way you will have “checked it twice.”

 

4. Office secret Santa

Now we all know about deadlines when it comes to our workplace. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t have a little festive cheer.

Forbes has some great gifts that work well for the office, aren’t expensive and will suit everyone, from the organised colleague to your supervising manager.

 

5. Gift vouchers

Yes, now we come to what would be inclined to be the lazy person’s way out.

However, if you know your person’s favourites, this can save you a large amount of time and hassle.

If your receiver loves movies, a gift voucher to their local cinema can be a great choice. Those such as the Village Cinemas gift shop offer cards for Gold Class or All Inclusive Experience.

 

6. Appeal to their likes

If you’re really stuck for a gift, think of what they like. Are they someone with a sweet tooth?

Based in Queensland, Moo – Lolly Bar sells a great range of confectionery that you can buy in bulk, which you can send to anyone from colleagues, to your family and friends. They ship nationwide; including rural areas and you can buy online, a perfect idea for any chocoholic.

There are my six time sensitive tips to help you meet your gift-buying deadline. I hope the festive season is kind to you, and also to your wallet.