10 Helpful Hints to Make Your Holiday Shopping a Breeze

Among many new realities this year, holiday shopping will look and feel a bit different this season, as businesses work hard to keep their staff and customers safe.

We invite you to keep the following tips in mind to help make your holiday shopping merrier.

Tip 1: Don’t Leave your Shopping until the Last Minute

While it can be tempting to put off, getting your shopping done early means less lines, more stock, and ultimately less stress. You will thank yourself later!

Tip 2: Create a Shopping List in Advance

Creating a holiday shopping list will help you stay organized and allow you to  focus your attention on the things that matter most, such as staying virtually connected with extended family and friends over the holidays.

Don’t forget to check it twice!

Tip 3: Order Online

Skip the lines and order online. It’s quick, convenient, and you can do it right from the safety of your own home. Remember to leave ample time to allow for any shipping delays due to heavy parcel volumes and additional safety measures being taken by delivery providers.

If you are shopping for those outside of your immediate household, you can ship packages directly to their residence by entering their mailing address at checkout. Many retailers will also have options to select the item as a gift, which allows senders to include special add-ons to their delivery such as gift wrapping and personalized messages.

If you are not comfortable with online shopping, see if someone in your immediate household can assist you, or try calling the business directly for assistance, as some businesses can process online orders over the phone.

Tip 4: Try Curbside Pickup

Many retailers are now offering a curbside pickup option for orders placed online. This is a great option to get your items  quickly (typically within hours of placing the order) and safely.

If curbside pickup is available, you will see this option at the online checkout. You will be notified when your order is ready for pick up, and upon arrival you can call or text the store to let them know you have arrived, all while staying in your vehicle. Simply pop your trunk and a store associate will bring the items out and place them in your vehicle while maintaining their social distance.

Tip 5: Choose Sustainability

We’re dreaming of a green Christmas!

This holiday season be mindful of the environment and help reduce your impact by committing to the three R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Consider buying certified eco-friendly or sustainable products, scope out items with less packaging, use recycled materials to wrap your gifts. Or get creative and make your gifts instead – the receiver of your gift will appreciate the extra time and thoughtfulness.

Tip 6: Know the Boxing Day Secrets

In today’s retail market, boxing day is a thing of the past. Now, most stores hold a boxing week sale starting the week of Christmas, so you can beat the boxing day rush and get in on the deals early.

Tip 7: Avoid Shopping at Peak Times

If you need to shop in person, try to avoid shopping during peak times such as weekends, evenings, or days closer to the end of the work week, which tend to be busier times at shopping malls. Try going on weekday mornings when stores first open. You will also be more likely to find a parking spot!

Tip 8: Support your Community and Shop Local

Small businesses have been especially impacted this year. Show them your support this holiday season and shop local. Supporting small businesses in your area helps contribute to a more diverse and vibrant community and strengthens the local economy.

Tip 9: Help Spread Holiday Cheer

The holidays are a time of reflection and gratitude, and an opportunity to show kindness to others in your community by giving back.

If you can afford to do so, consider purchasing a gift for someone less fortunate through a local gift donation program, such as Home Instead’s Be a Santa to a Senior program, or London Drugs’ Stocking Stuffers for Seniors program.

Tip 10: Stay Safe!

Most importantly, as you do your holiday shopping this season remember to be kind, be calm, and be safe. Wear a mask, and wash and sanitize your hands frequently as you complete your shopping.

From all of us at Route 65, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!