Christmas Shopping Checklist
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Quick answer: Christmas Shopping Checklist. This guide gives 19 ideas in 4 sections: Autumn: list and plan; November: the main shop; Early December: wrap and send; The last week. Budget: Helps you plan and avoid extras. Best for: Anyone who likes a plan.
- Time: Spread over about 10 weeks
- Budget: Helps you plan and avoid extras
- Best for: Anyone who likes a plan
There is a feeling at about half past four on Christmas Eve when you realise you have no sticky tape. It is a small feeling, but it is the sign of a plan that ran out too soon.
This checklist spreads Christmas shopping across the weeks, starting in autumn and finishing with the last food shop. Each stage has a few jobs and a few useful items, so nothing needs to be rushed. Tick things off as you go and adjust the timing to suit your own household.
Top tip: Keep one list in one place, such as a notebook in a drawer or a note on your phone. Tick things off as you go, and add the hiding places for gifts so nothing is lost in the attic.
Autumn: list and plan
The calm start is the one that saves the most money and stress later.
- Write the gift list: List everyone, a budget and a gift idea. Add ages and sizes for children, and check for gifts already bought.
- Check last year stash: Look through the wrapping box, cards and decorations before buying more. Many people find half a roll of tape and a pile of tags.
- Order cards early: Choose a pack of cards and note the last posting date from the postal service. A pack with envelopes saves a second trip.
- Start a gift box: Keep a box in a cupboard for gifts as you buy them. It stops you from forgetting what you have.
- Plan travel and visits: Write down who is visiting and where, so you know how many gifts to post and what to buy early.
November: the main shop
This is the month for most of the gift buying, with time to wait for any deliveries.
- Buy children gifts first: Start with the big ones, so you have time to swap sizes. Keep receipts together in an envelope.
- Stocking fillers: Buy little gifts in small batches whenever you see something good. Store them in a bag to keep them hidden.
- Wrapping supplies: Check you have paper, tape, ribbon and tags. Choose recycled paper and a good pair of scissors.
- Teacher and neighbour gifts: Choose small, simple gifts and a card. A multipack of treats can cover several people.
- Batteries: Buy a multipack of batteries for toys and lights. Check sizes on the boxes.
Early December: wrap and send
This is the time to get organised, ahead of the busy last fortnight.
- Write cards: Write a few each evening with a pen and a cup of tea. Keep a list of addresses in the card box.
- Post parcels: Pack carefully, label clearly and check the posting dates. Use padded envelopes for small gifts.
- Wrap in batches: Choose a quiet evening, put on music and wrap in one go. Label each gift before it goes under the tree.
- Tree and decorations: Put up the tree and check the lights work. Spare bulbs and fuses are a worthwhile buy.
- Book a delivery slot: If you shop for food online, book a slot early. It is far easier to move a slot than to find one.
The last week
- Food shop list: Plan meals, then buy non-perishables first. Make a separate list for fresh items.
- Gift swap and returns: Keep receipts in a safe place for any exchanges. An envelope in the gift box does the job.
- Treats for the day: A box of chocolates, crackers and snacks makes the day easier. Check labels for allergies.
- Emergency kit: Keep spare batteries, tape, a torch and a small first aid kit in one place.
Helpful links and further reading
A few trusted places to find out more.
- Royal Mail at Christmas: Check the latest last posting dates before you send cards or parcels.
- MoneyHelper: budgeting: Free, impartial budgeting tools and tips to plan your spending.
- Citizens Advice: Free, confidential advice if money is tight.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start Christmas shopping?
Early autumn is ideal, as it spreads the cost. Even starting in November helps a lot.
What if I am short on time?
Choose a few simple gifts, wrap them in batches and order cards online to save time.
How do I keep gifts hidden?
Choose one storage spot and keep a list of what is inside. Lock a cupboard or use a high shelf.
More ideas you might like
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