An Early Bird Guide to Christmas Shopping: How to Get Ahead and Stay Sane

Shopping early for Christmas

We’ve all been there—fighting through December crowds, refreshing websites that keep threatening to crash during last-minute sales, or panic-wrapping gifts on Christmas Eve. Or even on one occasion the day after Boxing Day!

But what if you could avoid all the chaos and actually enjoy the run-up to Christmas? Welcome to the world of the early bird! 

Starting your Christmas shopping early doesn’t just save money and stress—it allows you to be more thoughtful, more organised, and maybe even a little smug come December.

Here’s your ultimate early bird guide to Christmas shopping, packed with practical tips, timing strategies, and a dash of festive cheer.

Why Start Christmas Shopping Early?

Better Deals (and Less Spending!)

Many retailers offer autumn sales, early-bird discounts, and pre-Black Friday deals. Starting early allows you to track prices and grab bargains before the December markup.

Avoiding the Rush

No more elbowing your way through packed high streets or dealing with “out of stock” notices online. Early shopping gives you the pick of the lot.

More Thoughtful Gifting

With extra time, you can choose or even create meaningful gifts rather than relying on last-minute panic buys.

Budget-Friendly Planning

Spreading out your spending from June to December can make a huge difference to your bank balance come January.

When Should You Start?

Summer (June to September)

Ideal for planners. Start jotting down gift ideas and budget estimates. Look out for clearance sales and “Christmas in July” style events.

Autumn (October  to Early November)

This is prime time. You’ll catch autumn sales, limited edition seasonal gifts, and early promotions.

Mid-November Deadline

Aim to have 80% of your shopping done before Black Friday. That way, you can use Black Friday and Cyber Monday strategically—only buying items you’ve already planned for.

Smart Early Shopping Strategies

1. Make a Master Gift List

Include everyone you need to buy for: family, friends, colleagues, even the postie. Add notes on preferences, sizes, and budget limits.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Decide on an overall spend and break it down per person. Apps like Christmas Gift List or Giftster can help you track it all.

3. Embrace the Hidden Gems

Independent shops, markets, and Etsy sellers often release Christmas stock early. Buying now supports small businesses and guarantees more unique gifts.

4. Don’t Forget the Stocking Fillers

Pick up bits and bobs as you go—socks, sweets, mini toiletries—rather than panic-buying multipacks in December.

5. Store Your Finds Safely

Create a gift stash in a labelled box or cupboard. Keep a digital list so you don’t double-buy (or forget what’s inside!).

Early Bird Gift Ideas

Personalised items – These often take longer to produce and ship, so ordering early is essential.

DIY hampers – Stock up on bits across multiple shops to create custom hampers for foodies, tea lovers, or spa night fans.

Subscription gifts – Many companies let you pre-order a Christmas delivery for subscription boxes—ideal for ongoing joy!

A Note on Wrapping and Posting

Wrapping: Try wrapping gifts as you go. Set up a “wrapping station” with all your supplies, or schedule a relaxing wrap-and-watch session with a festive film.

Posting: If you’re posting gifts, beat the rush. Royal Mail’s last posting dates vary, but aim for the first week of December to be safe. Or check out courier services.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is meant to be joyful, not stressful. Getting a head start now means more time for mince pies, carol concerts, and quality moments with loved ones. So grab a notebook, brew a cuppa, and take that first step toward your calmest, merriest Christmas yet.

And remember—early birds don’t just get the best worms, they get the best wrapping paper too!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

Share your tips and favourite early buys in the comments below or tag us on Instagram using #ThatsChristmas365!

Crafting a Merry Christmas: DIY Low-Cost Decorations and Gifts from Budget-Friendly Retailers

The festive season is a time for joy, creativity, and giving, but it doesn’t have to mean splurging on expensive decorations and gifts. With a bit of imagination and a visit to budget-friendly retailers like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, The Range, Rymans, Home Bargains, One Beyond, Poundland, and their counterparts in South Africa and Australia, such as Ackermans, PEP, Woolworths, and the Reject Shop, you can create beautiful, heartfelt Christmas decorations and gifts that won’t break the bank.

1. Homemade Christmas Ornaments

Ornaments are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your Christmas tree. Making your own is not only cost-effective but also fun and rewarding.

Clear Bauble Ornaments: Clear plastic baubles are a versatile base for many DIY projects and can be found at retailers like The Range or One Beyond. Fill them with glitter, confetti, or even tiny festive figurines, all of which are easily found in budget stores. For a more personalised touch, add a small scroll with a handwritten message inside.

Salt Dough Decorations: Mix up some simple salt dough (flour, salt, and water) and roll it out to cut into festive shapes with cookie cutters. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top for hanging. Once baked and cooled, paint them in your favourite Christmas colours. This is a great project to do with children, and the decorations can be used year after year.

Pinecone Decorations: Collect pinecones from your garden or a local park. Spray paint them in festive colours, like gold or silver, and attach a ribbon for hanging. You can also add a dusting of glitter for a bit of sparkle.

2. DIY Wreaths and Garlands

Wreaths and garlands bring a festive feel to your home, and making your own allows you to customise them to your taste and décor.

Bauble Wreath: Collect a variety of baubles from stores like Poundland, Dollar General, or the Reject Shop. Using a wire coat hanger bent into a circle as a base, thread the baubles onto the wire, alternating colours and sizes. Once full, twist the ends of the hanger together and add a festive ribbon for hanging.

Evergreen Garland: Purchase faux greenery from retailers like The Range or Woolworths. Weave in fairy lights, pinecones, and ribbon for a custom garland. This can be draped over mantels, doorways, or staircases to add a festive touch to any space.

3. Handmade Gifts

Handcrafted gifts show your loved ones how much you care. With supplies from stores like Rymans, Ackermans, and PEP, you can create unique and thoughtful presents.

Personalised Mugs: Plain mugs are often available at budget stores like Dollar Tree or PEP. Use ceramic paints or oil-based markers to personalise them with names, festive designs, or inspirational quotes. Bake the mugs in the oven to set the paint, making them dishwasher safe. Fill them with hot chocolate sachets, mini marshmallows, or tea bags for a complete gift.

Homemade Candles: Candle-making kits or supplies (wax, wicks, and containers) can be found at The Range or Woolworths. Add essential oils for a custom scent and pour the wax into small glass jars or teacups. Decorate the jars with a ribbon or label for a polished look.

Photo Frames: Pick up a basic photo frame from a store like Rymans or the Reject Shop. Decorate the frame with paint, glitter, or natural materials like shells or twigs. Insert a cherished photo or a festive quote for a gift that’s sure to be treasured.

4. Festive Table Decorations

Setting a festive table is easy with a few DIY touches.

Mason Jar Centrepieces: Mason jars are incredibly versatile and available at most budget stores. Fill them with fairy lights, cranberries, or even small baubles. Line them up along the centre of your table for a simple yet charming display.

DIY Napkin Rings: Use wire, beads, or ribbon from stores like Rymans or Ackermans to create custom napkin rings. For a rustic look, tie a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick to each napkin with twine.

5. Gift Wrapping and Tags

The way you present your gifts adds to the excitement of receiving them, and you can create beautiful wrapping and tags without spending a fortune.

Custom Wrapping Paper: Purchase plain brown or white paper from Dollar Tree or Poundland and decorate it with stamps, stencils, or even hand-drawn designs. This gives your gifts a personal and creative touch. You can also use pages from old books or newspapers for a vintage look.

Handmade Gift Tags: Use cardstock from Rymans or Woolworths to cut out simple shapes like stars, trees, or hearts. Decorate with glitter, paint, or markers. Punch a hole and thread through some twine or ribbon, and you have unique gift tags that add a special touch to your presents.

Conclusion

The holiday season is a time to celebrate creativity and thoughtfulness. By using materials from budget-friendly retailers like Dollar Tree, The Range, Poundland, and their equivalents in South Africa and Australia, you can craft decorations and gifts that are both beautiful and meaningful. Whether you’re making ornaments, wreaths, personalised gifts, or festive table decorations, these projects will help you embrace the spirit of Christmas without breaking the bank. Happy crafting, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and creativity!