Make Sure Your Prescription Medications Will Last You Through Christmas and New Year

Ensure you stay healthy this festive season by checking you have enough prescription medication to last through Christmas and New Year. 

Avoid delays, closures, and winter disruptions with simple early planning.

The festive season is filled with joy, family visits, rich food, and glittering lights.

But it also brings changes to pharmacy opening hours, reduced GP availability, postal delays, winter illnesses, and all the unpredictability of the holidays. 

For anyone who relies on prescription medications, running short over Christmas and New Year can quickly turn a celebration into a crisis.

Whilst we were checking on our own medical prescriptions before the Christmas and New Year period, we thought: "This will make a very helpful feature on That's Christmas 365." So here it is. 

Here’s why it’s essential to make sure you have enough medication to comfortably cover the entire festive period and how to stay organised and stress-free.

Why Planning Ahead Matters at Christmas

1. Pharmacies and GP surgeries operate reduced hours

Most GP practices and pharmacies close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, with many also reducing hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. That means your usual routine repeat order might not be processed in time.

A simple oversight can leave you waiting days for a refill — not ideal when your health depends on it.

2. Winter weather and transport issues can cause delays

Snow, ice, flooding, or simply higher-than-usual holiday traffic can disrupt postal deliveries and supply chains. If your repeat prescription is delivered by post or collected from a pharmacy that relies on regular stock deliveries, delays are more likely in December.

Ordering early helps ensure you’re covered even if things don’t run smoothly.

3. You may travel or stay with family

Many people spend Christmas and New Year away from home. In the festive rush, it’s surprisingly easy to forget regular medications or underestimate how much you need for an extended stay.

Always pack more than you think you’ll need — including a couple of days’ extra supply just in case plans change.

4. Exacerbations of health conditions are more common in winter

Cold weather, seasonal infections, stress, richer foods, and irregular routines can all worsen existing health issues. Conditions such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension, or mental health concerns often require more careful management at this time of year.

Having sufficient medication helps you maintain stability during the busiest, and often most stressful, season.

How to Make Sure You’re Prepared

Order your repeat prescriptions early, if possible.

Aim to request your medication at least two weeks before Christmas week. Many GP surgeries encourage patients to order early in December to avoid disappointment.

Check what you already have

Do a quick stock-take of:

daily medications

inhalers

rescue medications

creams or patches

test strips and other monitoring kits

Make sure everything is in date and that you have plenty for the full festive period.

Use electronic repeat prescription services

If you haven’t already, signing up for your pharmacy’s EPS (Electronic Prescription Service) makes reordering easier and avoids paper-based delays. Some services offer automatic reminders, which can be incredibly useful at this time of year.

Don’t forget over-the-counter essentials

While you're topping up your prescription items, consider picking up winter basics too:

pain relief

cold and flu remedies (compatible with your prescriptions)

indigestion tablets

plasters and bandages

It all supports a smoother, healthier Christmas.

Keep everything together when travelling

If you’ll be visiting loved ones, pack your medication securely in your hand luggage. Consider keeping a copy of your repeat prescription slip or a photo of your medication labels, especially if you're going away for several days.

Peace of Mind for a Perfect Festive Season

Christmas should be a time of warmth, celebration, and togetherness, not stress over missed prescriptions or unexpected health worries. By checking your supplies early and planning ahead, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment with confidence.

Sometimes problems happen despite our best efforts. Should you find yourself, or a loved one, running out of a medication, or you need an emergency prescription over the Christmas and New Year period the NHS 111 service will be of benefit: If you need an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine, you can either visit the NHS 111 website or call 111. This service is available 24/7 for urgent but non-life-threatening situations.

A little preparation now means a healthier and happier Christmas for you and your loved ones.

Is Your Family’s First Aid and Emergency Kit Ready for Christmas and New Year?

Ensure your home is prepared for the festive season with a fully stocked first aid and emergency kit. 

Practical Christmas and New Year safety tips to keep your family protected and worry-free.

The festive season should be a time of joy, calm, and celebration – not a time spent rummaging through half-empty plaster boxes and expired antiseptic wipes. 

Yet every year, A&E departments see a surge in completely preventable Christmas mishaps: cuts from hurried wrapping, minor burns from cooking, slips on icy pavements, and strains from lifting heavy boxes of decorations.

Making sure your household has a fully stocked, up-to-date first aid and emergency kit is one of the simplest ways to keep everyone safe and confident over the holidays. Think of it as festive peace of mind in a box.

Why Christmas Needs Extra Preparedness

More cooking, more candles, more chaos

From turkeys to trifles, your kitchen is working overtime. Hot trays, sharp knives, boiling pans – they all increase the risk of small accidents.

More visitors, including children and older relatives

When you’re hosting, it helps to have supplies ready for bumps, falls, and unexpected sniffles.

Winter conditions

Ice, cold snaps, and seasonal viruses mean a well-equipped kit is more important than ever.

Reduced pharmacy and GP opening hours

Bank holidays can make it harder to pick up last-minute essentials. Better to have them in advance.

What Should Your Festive First Aid Kit Include?

Here’s a reliable list you can use to stock (or restock) your home kit in time for the big day:

Essentials

Assorted plasters

Sterile gauze pads and adhesive dressing tape

Antiseptic wipes or spray

Disposable gloves

Tweezers and small scissors

Digital thermometer

Pain relief suitable for your family (paracetamol, ibuprofen, children’s formulations if needed)

Cold/ice packs

Burn gel or burn dressings

Crepe or elastic bandages for sprains

Eye wash pods or sterile saline

Winter and Festive Add-Ons

Rehydration salts (particularly useful after winter illnesses)

Decongestants or cold/flu remedies

Lip balm and skin balm for winter dryness

Hand sanitiser

Heat pads

Small torch and spare batteries

A charged power bank for phones

For Households with Children

Child-safe plasters with hypoallergenic adhesive

Infant thermometer

Age-appropriate cold remedies

Bite/sting cream in case of body-heat-seeking winter insects (they still appear!)

Don’t Forget Your Home Emergency Supplies

Christmas storms, power cuts, and icy spells occasionally disrupt plans. Alongside your first aid kit, it’s wise to have:

Bottled water

Long-life snacks

Foil blankets

A battery-powered radio

Candles and matches (used safely, in stable holders)

A list of important phone numbers

A small folder with any essential medical information

How to Keep Your Kit Festive-Season Ready

Check expiry dates now

Painkillers, antiseptic creams, burn gels, and saline solutions all expire.

Make your kit easy to find

Store it somewhere central and known to every adult in the house. Also, keep it away from sources of direct heat.

Create a mini-kit for guests

A small pouch with painkillers, plasters, and wipes is ideal when you’ve got visitors staying over.

Restock on Boxing Day or before New Year

The shops reopen – take five minutes to replenish anything you’ve used.

A Small Job That Makes a Big Difference

Ensuring your home has a complete, up-to-date first aid and emergency kit is one of the simplest Christmas safety steps you can take. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does give you peace of mind – especially when the kettle is boiling, the children are crafting, the oven is full, and your home is filled with laughter and activity.

This Christmas and New Year, give your family the gift of preparedness. It’s one present you’ll hopefully never need – but will be immensely grateful for if you do.

The Surprisingly Festive Magic of Spam: From Everyday Suppers to Your Christmas Turkey

Discover the surprising magic of Spam this Christmas, from everyday recipes to layering thin slices over your turkey for extra flavour, moisture and festive fun.

When most people think of Christmas centrepieces, their minds jump straight to turkey, ham, beef, or a lavish veggie Wellington. 

Yet tucked away on supermarket shelves across the country sits a much-loved classic that quietly transforms everyday meals, and, believe it or not, can bring something rather special to your festive feast: Spam.

Yes, Spam. The humble, pink, oddly satisfying tinned icon. And this year, it deserves a little festive spotlight.

Why Spam Still Has Its Magic

Spam has been part of British kitchens for generations. It turns up in cosy family suppers, quick breakfasts, easy-to-make sandwiches and comfort-food classics. Part of its enduring charm comes from its versatility:

It fries to a gorgeous golden crisp

It dices beautifully for omelettes and hash

It’s a perfect base for quick lunches

It’s beloved in fusion cooking, from Hawaiian to Korean dishes

It stores brilliantly in the cupboard, ready when you need it most

Cheap? Yes. Cheerful? Always. Underestimated? Absolutely.

Everyday Ideas for Using Spam

Before we get to the Christmas turkey showstopper, it’s worth celebrating a few of Spam’s greatest hits:

Crispy Spam Fries

Slice into thick fingers, roll in flour, or dip in batter, and fry until crunchy. Serve with spicy mayo or brown sauce.

Spam and Egg Breakfast Muffins

Pan-fry thin slices and layer into a toasted English muffin with a fried egg and a touch of melted cheese.

Korean-Inspired Spam Rice Bowls

Dice and fry until crisp, then toss with rice, kimchi, spring onions, and a dash of soy sauce.

Spam Carbonara

Replace pancetta with golden cubes of Spam. It works shockingly well.

Spam Bubble & Squeak

Fold softened cubes into leftover mashed potatoes and greens, fry until crisp, and top with a poached egg.

Cheap ingredients, maximum comfort. Just what we love in the run-up to Christmas.

Now for the Festive Twist: Spam on Your Christmas Turkey

It sounds playful, and it is, but glazing and layering Spam over a turkey genuinely produces delicious results.

Why Spam Works with Turkey

It bastes the bird: As it cooks, Spam releases flavoured fat that keeps the turkey moist.

It crisps beautifully: The top develops a savoury, golden crust.

It’s effectively “built-in seasoning”: Spam is salty, lightly spiced, and creates a ready-made flavour layer.

It protects the breast meat: Much like bacon rashers, but with more flavour and better coverage.

How to Do It

Chill the Spam first so it slices very thinly—almost like thick bacon.

Carefully lay the slices in overlapping rows across the turkey breast, creating a neat “shield”.

Tuck small pieces around the thighs or legs if you’re feeling adventurous.

Add your favourite glaze—maple syrup, honey and mustard, or a brown-sugar rub work especially well.

Roast as usual. The Spam will crisp, baste, and infuse the meat as it cooks.

The result?

A gloriously moist turkey with a savoury, crackling-like topping and a subtle layer of flavour woven through the breast meat. It’s a festive surprise that starts as a bit of fun… and ends as something people ask for next year.

Serving Ideas

Chop the crisped Spam topping into bites and scatter over stuffing.

Mix the drippings into your gravy for a smoky, salty depth.

Save a few slices of uncooked Spam to fry on Boxing Day and serve with leftover turkey sandwiches.

A Christmas Tradition in the Making?

Spam may not be grand. It may not be glamorous. But it is dependable, delicious, nostalgic, and oddly magical. And sometimes that’s exactly what Christmas cooking needs, a sense of fun, a touch of comfort, and a willingness to try something wonderfully unexpected.

This year, why not give your turkey a Spam-tastic makeover? It might just become your new festive signature.

How to Make Sure Your Christmas Turkey Isn’t Rotten This Year

Learn how to choose, store and defrost your Christmas turkey safely, avoid spoiled birds, and spot warning signs, including a real-life cautionary tale about a butcher shut down for selling rotten meat.

A practical guide to choosing, storing and defrosting your festive bird safely

When you picture Christmas Day, you probably imagine the warm aroma of a beautifully roasted turkey drifting through the house. 

What you don’t imagine is discovering, too late, that your bird isn’t fresh or safe to eat. Sadly, it happens more often than people realise, and the consequences go far beyond a ruined dinner.

This guide will help you check the quality of your Christmas turkey, store it safely, and defrost it properly. It also includes a personal cautionary tale that shows why vigilance matters when buying from any supplier, including local butchers.

A Real-Life Warning: When a Butcher Lets You Down

A few years ago, my wife and I ordered a fresh turkey from a local butchers. We wanted to support a small business and enjoy a premium bird. But when we arrived to collect it, we were hit by a powerful, unmistakable stench of rotting meat. The smell filled the shop and that was all the warning we needed.

We turned straight around and went to a supermarket to buy our turkey instead.

After Christmas, the situation took a worrying turn. In the New Year, the butchers was closed down by environmental health following multiple complaints of food poisoning. It reinforced an important lesson: even trusted-looking shops can fall short on basic food safety, and you should always trust your senses.

How to Check That Your Turkey Is Fresh

Whether buying from a supermarket or a local butcher, there are several key signs that your bird is safe and high quality.

1. Look for clear, reliable labelling

Use-by date: Never buy a bird with a damaged label or unclear date.

Source information: Reputable suppliers include details of origin and assurance schemes (such as Red Tractor).

2. Check the temperature

Fresh poultry should be properly chilled. The surface should feel cold to the touch, never warm or clammy.

3. Trust your nose

A fresh turkey smells faintly meaty, never sour or “off”. Any strong, unpleasant smell is a major red flag. If it smells bad in the packaging or the shop, walk away.

4. Inspect the colour and texture

Skin should be pale cream to light pink.

No greying, greenish patches or sliminess.

Flesh should feel springy, not sticky.

5. Buy from reputable sellers

What happened to my wife and I is a perfect demonstration of why you should never feel pressured to accept a bird from a supplier that seems “not quite right”.

Check hygiene ratings.

Read recent reviews.

Avoid shops with visible cleanliness issues or strange smells.

A low price or friendly service is not worth the risk of food poisoning.

How to Store Fresh Turkey Safely

Once your bird is home, proper storage is essential.

Keep it cold

Refrigerate immediately at 0–4°C.

Store the bird on the bottom shelf to prevent juices dripping onto other foods.

Leave it in its original packaging

Only open it when you’re ready to cook. This helps preserve freshness and prevents cross-contamination.

Follow the use-by date strictly

Fresh birds often have a short life, especially if collected close to Christmas Day. If you are cutting it fine, consider cooking it early and reheating portions safely on the day.

How to Safely Defrost a Frozen Turkey

A frozen turkey is a brilliant option for many families, economical and easy to store, but only if thawed safely.

Never defrost at room temperature

This is one of the most common causes of food poisoning at Christmas. The outside warms up too quickly while the inside stays frozen, creating the perfect environment for bacteria.

Defrost in the fridge, instead

Allow 24 hours per 2–2.5 kg of turkey. Large birds may need up to 3 days.

Place the turkey in a large tray to catch any juices.

Check it’s fully thawed

Insert a clean skewer into the thickest part of the thigh.

If ice crystals remain or the flesh feels solid, it’s not ready.

Cook immediately once thawed

Never refreeze raw poultry that has been defrosted.

Don’t Forget: Cook It Safely Too

Once in the oven, your turkey should reach an internal temperature of 75°C in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Clear juices, no pinkness, and properly cleaned preparation areas are all vital for a safe Christmas meal.

Trust Your Instincts

From dodgy butchers to poorly stored birds, food safety issues can appear in the most unexpected places. The best protection is a combination of common sense, proper storage, and refusing to accept anything that doesn’t look, smell or feel right.

Christmas should be memorable for all the right reasons, and a well-chosen, safely prepared turkey is one of the simplest ways to ensure that.

Celebrating a Classic. The ZX Spectrum Deluxe Collectors Box

If you’re someone who remembers booting up a cassette tape on an 8-bit home computer in the early 1980s, or you simply love vintage gaming history, the ZX Spectrum Deluxe Collectors Box is a beautiful throwback. 

Released by Gracious Films, the box is more than a simple nostalgia pack: it’s a tribute to one of the UK’s most iconic machines, the ZX Spectrum, and a heartfelt homage to its creator, Sir Clive Sinclair. 

What’s Inside the Box

Here’s a full breakdown of what the Deluxe Collectors Box includes — and why each item matters for fans and collectors alike. 

A Certificate of Authenticity from the Sinclair Estate — signed by Crispin Sinclair, Sir Clive’s son.

A rare Sir Clive Sinclair 48k postage stamp — a quirky, collectible nod to his legacy.

An acrylic figurine of Clive Sinclair holding a ZX Spectrum, with art-style background.

A resin model of the ZX Spectrum itself — perfect for display on a shelf or desk.

A ZX Spectrum–themed wristband — simple, but a fun wearable for fans.

Three metal posters: the official film poster, a vintage magazine cover featuring Sinclair, and a close-up of a Spectrum keyboard key — each a little piece of retro geek art.

An exclusive A5 special-issue of CRASH Magazine, a nostalgic nod to gaming journalism in the 1980s/90s.

A USB “cassette tape” containing rare footage: interviewing developers, behind-the-scenes of ZX Spectrum game creation, and other archival material.

A Blu-ray copy of the film The Rubber-Keyed Wonder: 40 Years of the Sinclair ZX Spectrum — a documentary tracing the history of the ZX Spectrum. 

All of this comes packaged in a high-quality, magnetic-closing box — designed for collectors.

Originally priced around £159–£165 (sometimes higher depending on edition), this box was launched as a limited-edition tribute to the Spectrum, timed around its 40th anniversary and the documentary’s release. 

Why It Matters: More Than Nostalgia

To many, the ZX Spectrum isn’t just a computer — it’s a symbol of a formative era in British computing and gaming. At a time when home computers were rare and expensive, the Spectrum helped bring computing (and gaming) into ordinary households across the UK. Its modest specs belied its power to inspire creativity: many programmers, developers and bedroom coders cut their teeth on the Speccy. 

The Deluxe Box doesn’t just celebrate that machine — it celebrates the spirit of innovation and DIY computing that defined the 1980s and guided early game development. 

The inclusion of the documentary Blu-ray and developer interviews makes it more than a decorative package: it’s a mini-time capsule. As the publishers say, the box “helps fund the film” and preserves part of gaming heritage as something tangible. 

Mixed Sentiments: Collector Worth vs. Fan Appeal

Of course — not everyone is sold on the value even if they love the Spectrum. On retro forums and discussion boards, some users have been critical:

“Overpriced assortment of items with no originality.” 

Reddit

“£159 for a box of assorted tat, and a copy of a video … ‘authenticated’ by Crispin Sinclair(!).” 

Reddit

That sentiment reflects the thought that, while the box is heavy on nostalgia and memorabilia, it doesn’t actually include a working Spectrum or new, exclusive software. For a purist collector, that may matter — but for someone who appreciates the aesthetic and historical tribute, the curated items and documentary content might justify the price.

Who This Box Is For

The Deluxe Collectors Box makes most sense for:

Long-time fans of the ZX Spectrum who grew up with it in the 1980s or 1990s.

Retro gaming collectors who enjoy memorabilia, limited-edition packaging, and slip-back nostalgia.

Anyone with interest in computing history and vintage British tech culture.

People who want a display-worthy “conversation piece” — a resin Spectrum or signed certificate is great for a shelf.

It’s probably less appealing to those who see the Spectrum purely as a games machine, or who were expecting a functional retro computer, because it doesn’t include working hardware or pre-installed games.

Verdict 

The ZX Spectrum Deluxe Collectors Box isn’t for everyone, but then again, it doesn’t claim to be. If you see the Spectrum as part of British computing heritage, or you appreciate a well-curated piece of nostalgia (plus a documentary), then this box is a thoughtful and charming tribute. For £159–£165, it offers a comprehensive set of collectible items with real sentimental weight. 

If I were you and I treasured the history of 1980s gaming and computing — especially with a UK perspective — I’d probably pick one up (if any remain). It’s less about functional value and more about honouring a legacy — and for that alone, it’s a worthy addition to a retro gaming shelf.

However, for a limited period of time The ZX Spectrum Deluxe Collectors Box is available at the heavily discounted price of £99.

https://www.graciousfilms.com/products/rkw-collectors-box

New Luxury Hot Sauce Challenger Set is Ideal for Christmas Gifting

Chilli No.5

The Hot Sauce Challenger Set lets food lovers explore the globe through liquid spice,  a world tour designed for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and every snack in between.

Each flavour is freshly blended in small batches using ingredients sourced from Italy and the South of France, crafted to elevate everything from pizza parties with friends to Sunday roasts and  Christmas leftovers.

From the gentle warmth of Ever So English, to the mustard-forward fire of Devilish Dijon, through Portugal’s iconic Perfect Piri Piri, American-style Louisiana BBQ, the bold flavours of Jamaican Jerk and Mexican Fury, the punch of Wicked Wasabi, the addictive heat of Sriracha Cha-Cha-Cha, the tangy spice of Chinese Hot & Sour, the smoky depth of Heavenly Harissa, India’s legendary Forever Phall, and finally Nigeria’s explosive Pure Chilli No. 5: this set delivers a thrilling world tour of flavour.

With over 30 Great Taste Award stars, these sauces don’t just complement food; they spark conversation, nostalgia, competition, and joy. The only catch? The heat intensifies with every country. How far can you go?

Price: £40.00

Size: 12 x 25ml Chilli Sauce Tubes

Buy: https://chilli-no5.com/buy/home-page-hot-sauce-gift-sets/hot-sauce-challenger-set

FACTFILE:

Chilli No. 5 was founded by Rumble Romagnoli and classically trained Scottish chef Colin, united by a passion for bold flavour and a lifelong love of food. Their global travels inspired a simple idea: to create hot sauces that are as exciting and adventurous as the dishes they enhance. 

Frustrated by the lack of options that offered both flavour and health, they began crafting their own. With the support of Michelin-starred chefs, Chilli No. 5 produces small-batch sauces made with real ingredients, superfoods and functional elements such as Guarana, Maca, Inulin, Korean Ginseng, Fenugreek, L-Arginine and Agave Syrup. 

Each sauce is designed to deliver gourmet taste while supporting wellbeing. There are no additives, no refined sugars and no compromises. Just clean, vibrant heat that brings people together and transforms every meal into something worth remembering. 

Keep the Festive Spirit Bright: Why No One Should Drink and Drive This Christmas

The Christmas season is all about warmth, celebration, and time spent with the people we care about. 

But amidst the sparkle of fairy lights and the clink of glasses, there’s one responsibility that must stay firmly in focus: ensuring that neither you nor your guests drink and drive.

It’s a simple decision that saves lives, protects families, and keeps the season joyful for everyone.

A Season for Celebration — Not Tragedy

The holidays see a rise in drink-related accidents each year. Roads are darker, the weather is colder and more unpredictable, and many people, understandably, feel more relaxed at parties and gatherings. 

But even one drink can affect your judgement, reaction time, and awareness behind the wheel.

It’s never worth the risk.

Be the Host Who Sets the Standard

If you’re welcoming people into your home this Christmas, you also have the chance to set a positive example. A few small steps can ensure your guests stay safe:

1. Make It Clear: No Drinking and Driving

A gentle reminder at the start of the night can make all the difference. Most guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness.

2. Offer Plenty of Non-Alcoholic Options

Soft drinks, festive mocktails, sparkling water, alcohol-free beers and wines—there are so many excellent choices available now. Display them prominently so they feel just as celebratory.

3. Encourage Lift-Sharing and Pre-Booked Taxis

Ask guests to plan their travel home before the night begins. Pre-booking taxis or arranging designated drivers is far easier than trying to sort something in the early hours.

4. Create a “Sofa Sanctuary”

Have a couple of blankets ready for anyone who ends up staying over. Your guests’ safety is far more important than a perfectly tidy house.

If You’re Out and About…

Even if you’re not hosting, you can still stay safe and help others do the same.

Know Your Limits (And Stick to Them)

The UK’s drink-drive limit is low for a reason. Alcohol affects everyone differently, and there’s no foolproof way to calculate how much is “safe.” If you’re driving, avoid alcohol altogether.

Morning After Risks Are Real

Alcohol lingers far longer in the bloodstream than people assume. You may still be over the limit the next morning after an evening of mulled wine, Christmas ales, or bubbly.

Don’t Get Into a Car With Someone Who Has Been Drinking

It doesn’t matter if they say they “feel fine.” Trust your instincts and look after your wellbeing.

A Gift to Yourself and Others: Responsibility

This Christmas, the greatest gift you can give is care, care for your friends, your family, your community, and yourself. Keeping the roads safe is a shared responsibility, and choosing not to drink and drive protects countless people you’ll never even meet.

Raise a glass, enjoy every moment, and keep the magic of the season alive by making the safest choice.

Stay safe. Stay festive. And make sure everyone gets home for Christmas.

'You’ve already missed the last deadline for sending a parcel for Christmas… Island!' says Parcelhero

The final Christmas parcel collection dates may be nearer than you think, warns the home delivery expert Parcelhero. In fact, you’ve already missed the last date for Christmas Island (Kiritimati). 

But when is the final date to send to more common destinations such as the USA, Australia or India, and did you know the last collection date for many countries is a day earlier this year?

International delivery expert Parcelhero has been comparing all the major parcel companies' final collection dates for parcels to arrive in time for Christmas. 

It says that, ironically, considering its name, it’s already too late to organise a parcel collection for Christmas Island. 

"This year, the Pacific atoll, now more commonly known as Kiritimati, had the earliest deadline of all: 2 December.

Parcelhero says there is better news for everyone planning to send to most other international destinations. Brits still have around a fortnight to send their parcels to most of the more common destinations. 

But some countries’ final courier collection dates may be earlier than you think, it warns,  and the final recommended deadline to the most common European destinations is a day earlier than last year.

Parcelhero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., told That's Christmas 365: "More people every year are choosing to book a courier collection to send their Christmas gifts, rather than braving long Post Office queues. 

"That makes a lot of sense. However, the world’s leading couriers have announced some surprisingly early recommended collection deadlines this year, in order to ensure parcels get to their destinations in time for Christmas Eve. Don’t forget, no couriers deliver on Christmas Day itself.

"There’s actually less than a fortnight to go before many major Christmas destinations run out of time. Gifts destined for the Falklands (a British Overseas Territory) must be collected by 12 December, while Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Zimbabwe are all out of time after 16 December. The early 17 December date for Australia, New Zealand and Sri Lanka is also likely to take people by surprise.

"Perhaps the biggest shock for anyone tempted to leave their courier collection until the very last minute is that they have a day less than last year in which to book a collection and be certain their gifts will arrive on time for the big day. 

"That’s because international couriers usually recommend 20 December as the final collection date but this year the 20th lands on a Saturday, and most couriers don’t offer a standard weekend collection.

"That means for popular destinations such as France, Germany, The Netherlands and Ireland, we are recommending people organise a collection date of no later than 19 December. Leaving your parcel pick up until Monday, 22 December is taking a big risk that your gifts won’t arrive on time for Christmas.

"Our recommended final collection dates to some of the most popular international destinations are:

New Zealand: Wednesday,17 December

Australia: Wednesday, 17 December

Pakistan: Thursday, 18 December

India: Friday, 19 December

USA: Friday, 19 December

Italy: Friday, 19 December

Spain: Friday, 19 December

France: Friday, 19 December

Germany: Friday, 19 December

Netherlands: Friday, 19 December

"It’s also vital to note that some less common destinations have much earlier collection deadlines to look out for than the dates above. Christmas Island/Kiritimati isn’t the only country to have a very early cut-off. Some countries that are in conflict, such as Yemen, have a collection deadline of 4 December, and politics can also play a part. 

"For example, Cuba’s deadline is as early as 11 December because of the red tape involved in sending items there. Perhaps this is best shown by looking at Korea. The deadline for South Korea is a comfortable 18 December but the deadline to send to Communist North Korea is 11 December. 

"If you are worried about getting gifts to friends and loved ones in time, we recommend you enter your parcel’s destination and dimensions into our online parcel price comparison tool. You will then see the date your package is due to be delivered. 

"Remember, if you send your gifts in plenty of time then you can choose standard delivery options. If you leave it until the very last minute, you will need to pick an Express delivery service and that will cost you more.

"Using Parcelhero’s price comparison tool can also save people up to 60% off their parcel delivery. For full details of UK and international prices and collection times to ensure your packages arrive in time for 24 December, see https://www.parcelhero.com

Giving Tuesday: A Beautiful Reminder of What Christmas Is Really About

Discover the spirit of Giving Tuesday with thoughtful ways to give back this Christmas. 

From donations to volunteering, learn how to spread festive kindness in your community.

Giving Tuesday: A Beautiful Reminder of What Christmas Is Really About

When the last of the Black Friday bargains have been snapped up and Cyber Monday draws to a close, a gentler, kinder day arrives: Giving Tuesday. 

Held each year on the Tuesday after these major shopping events, it’s a global celebration of generosity,  and the perfect moment to pause, breathe, and remember the heart of Christmas.

While December is often full of festivity, excitement, and gift lists a mile long, Giving Tuesday encourages us to look outward and make space for compassion. 

Whether you prefer donating, volunteering, or supporting neighbours in need, it’s a day that fits beautifully into the spirit of the season.

What Is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday began in the United States but it has quickly become a global movement, embraced across the UK. The idea is simple: after two of the year’s biggest shopping days, people are encouraged to give back. There’s no specific way to participate, you can help in whatever way feels right for you.

Think of it as the unofficial start of the festive goodwill season.

Why Giving Tuesday Belongs in Your Christmas Calendar

1. It reconnects us to the true meaning of Christmas

It’s easy to get swept up in decorations, dinners, and last-minute shopping. Giving Tuesday gently nudges us towards kindness, generosity, and community — values that lie at the heart of Christmas.

2. It reminds us that small acts matter

You don’t need grand gestures. A £5 donation, a bag of tinned food, or an hour spent writing Christmas cards for the housebound can make a real difference.

3. It’s a way for families to give together

Children love the idea of helping others when it’s framed as part of Christmas traditions. Let them choose a toy to donate, help decorate a hamper, or join in a local charity event.

4. It supports charities at their busiest time

Food banks, shelters, animal rescues, and community groups face huge demand in December. Giving Tuesday offers essential support just when it’s needed most.

Simple Ways to Take Part This Giving Tuesday

Donate to a local charity

Pick a cause that matters to you, a food bank, a hospice, a children’s charity, a mental health organisation, or a community pantry. Even small gifts help.

Support a Christmas appeal

Many UK charities run festive campaigns:

Shoebox gift schemes

Warm winter coats for rough sleepers

Christmas meal projects

Toy appeals for low-income families

These schemes often share exactly what they need, making it easy to contribute.

Volunteer your time

From wrapping gifts to serving meals, volunteering brings a beautiful sense of connection. Check local churches, community centres, or mutual-aid groups.

Give kindness to neighbours

Christmas can be a lonely time. A quick chat, a card through the door, or an invitation for tea can brighten someone’s whole season.

Support small businesses and creators

Giving Tuesday also celebrates mindful spending. Choosing local makers and independent shops keeps communities strong, and the gifts are often far more meaningful.

The Ripple Effect of Festive Generosity

Acts of kindness have a way of multiplying. When you give on Giving Tuesday, it can inspire others to do the same, and that feeling of goodwill tends to spread throughout the month.

For many people, Christmas is a tough time financially or emotionally. Your generosity, no matter the form, can be the spark that makes the festive season feel warmer and more hopeful.

Making Giving Tuesday a Yearly Tradition

If you’re building your own Christmas traditions, consider adding Giving Tuesday to the list. It’s a wonderful way to start December with intention, gratitude, and kindness — all the things we say the season is about.

This year, take a moment for generosity. Whether you give a little or a lot, your kindness will shine brightly.

12 days of Christmas’: 12 money-saving hacks to save you cash

“Christmas is meant to be about family, fun and generosity, but the price tag can steal the sparkle,” warns MandM ambassador and money expert, Gemma Bird (moneymumofficial, 

https://www.facebook.com/moneymumofficial)

She told That's Christmas 365: “I’ve seen a sharp rise in people sharing money-saving hacks on social media. It shows you can be generous to yourself and others even when funds are tight.”

Gemma has pulled together her 12 Days of Christmas Money-Saving Hacks so you can spread joy without spreading yourself too thin.

‘12 days of Christmas’: 12 money-saving hacks to save you cash

Start with a Christmas budget

Set an overall budget and divide it by category. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” says Gemma. “A family of four will spend more on food than a couple without children.” “An easy way to do this is with a spreadsheet or banking apps to split money into pots.”

Shop early to beat price hikes

Many start shopping as early as September.

Sign up for bank switches or cashback schemes

The big banks are offering up to £200 if you open an account. If not switching, try cashback apps or websites.

Always check for discount codes

Search for discount codes. If you find none, sign up to the brand’s newsletter for a discount.

Use loyalty points for your Christmas food shop

“A lot of people don’t realise how much they’ve earned,” says Gemma. “You can usually find out how much you have in vouchers on the company’s website or by asking in store.”

Reuse and reimagine your wrapping

Try fabric wraps, decorate brown paper, or reuse saved paper.

Start your food shop early and buy over time

Add one non-perishable festive item each week to avoid a December budget hit.

Shop off-price retailers

“MandM lets you shop premium brands for up to 65% less all-year round.”

Try DIY decorations that cost next to nothing

Dried orange garland, a foraged wreath, DIY baubles.

Make your own Christmas crackers

Purchase a kit or make them yourself and choose what goes inside.

Try a family secret Santa

Set a budget and draw names for one meaningful gift each.

Embrace the four-gift rule for kids

Something they want, need, wear, read.

“People are realising that a thoughtful, budget-friendly Christmas often feels more special,” says Gemma.

Shop premium-branded fashion, outdoor and sportswear at up to 65% off all year round at mandmdirect.com.