Christmas shopping: When should you start?

Let’s face it, Christmas shopping can be undeniably stressful. There’s the crowds to contend with (this year’s crowds will undoubtedly be online in our new normal), the pressure to get the perfect gifts, and of course the crazy cost. So while it might not quite be time to get the Christmas decor out of storage, getting a head start with the shopping might not be such a bad idea. Here at Payflex, we suggest you start your holiday shopping now. Yes, now. It might even make the holiday period a bit less stressful!

A Christmas shopping season like no other

The COVID-19 pandemic means this year’s holiday season is likely  to be unlike any other. Long queues, and crowded malls are expected to be replaced by online shopping (We personally could think of nothing better than shopping in the comfort of your own home in your PJs with a glass of wine in hand).  And with supply chains severely disrupted by the pandemic, as well as a major shift to online retail, your Christmas shopping should start ASAP to avoid any delivery delays and stock shortages.

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The early bird catches the worm

The holiday shopping season is starting much earlier this year, as retailers attempt to cater to a COVID-led change in consumer behaviour amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Some of the key benefits of starting your Christmas shopping early include:

  • You can spread out your finances

One of the biggest reasons why we encourage starting your Christmas shopping early is it helps with budgeting. Instead of getting everything done in one exhausting marathon shopping session the week of Christmas, spread your shopping out over the next few weeks to ease the burden on your wallet as well as your stress levels. Spreading costs over a longer time period also reduces the likelihood of overspending.  

  • You can give gifts more thought

There’s no question that people make better decisions when they aren’t in a rush. When you don’t feel the last minute pressure to buy the perfect gift , there’s more time to think of a thoughtful present. 

  • Guaranteed stock & delivery

Are you one of those who generally wait until the last minute to order all your presents online? Most of you reading this will probably be putting your hands up right now. Remember, online retailers are NOT Santa Claus and have no magic sleigh, reindeers, or elves to help them process orders.  This means, most retailers cut off their Christmas orders by mid December to ensure items are delivered on time.  The earlier you order, the more you are guaranteed that your item will  arrive on time. The earlier you order, the higher the likelihood that the item you or your loved ones have been eying will still be in stock.

The pros clearly outweigh the cons

 It’s clear that shoppers have nothing to lose and everything to gain by starting their holiday shopping early.  Imagine a Christmas where all your presents are wrapped and under the tree a week before the actual day (The dream!). We’re sure we can all agree that 2020 has given us all enough stress. So if you want to breeze through the month of December, get a head-start on your Christmas shopping ASAP! If you want to make it even easier for yourself, visit our online store directory for access to hundreds of South Africa’s leading retailers. Happy Shopping!