It’s never too early to start next year’s Christmas shopping. In fact, if you start now, you can save hundreds of dollars on gifts, decor, and essentials. By starting early, you can easily get your Christmas shopping done on a budget. Plus, you’ll eliminate the stress and pressure of waiting until next year’s holiday to get everything done. Here are some simple shopping tips you can do now to prepare for Christmas 2025.
1. Stock up on decorations
Most retailers such as Target, Hobby Lobby and Walmart currently have 70%-90% off Christmas merchandise. You may have to visit a few stores to find what you’re looking for, but the discounts right now are unbeatable. Don’t wait until next year to replace your Christmas lights and pay in full.
2. Buy wrapping paper and supplies
Now is the perfect time to buy leftover wrapping paper, bows and Christmas cards. You can find deals at CVS, Walgreens, and Michael’s, all of which have discounts on leftover Christmas items. It’s never too early to stock up!
3. Buy discounted gifts
January sales often rival Black Friday prices. This is primarily because retailers have inventory they need to sell off leftover product from the holidays, and retailers generally experience slower overall sales, so they incentivize buying. According to data from CNBC and the National Retail Federation’s Retail Monitor, online retail sales increased by 25.47% year-on-year in January last year. As a result, most retailers are likely to offer deep discounts again this year. If you want the best deals, you should consider shopping in certain categories now rather than waiting until next year. However, certain categories, such as electronics, always have the best deals during Black Friday. Here’s what you should focus on buying right now.
Sports clothing and equipment
After Christmas, the sales at your favorite retailers are the best. For example, Amazon has 40% off fitness gear and apparel, while Lululemon has apparel starting at $9. You can also find deep discounts on home fitness equipment at companies like Peloton and even on Amazon.
Household items
You can check out department stores like Macy’s, which made January famous for its “white sales.” Items such as bedspreads, towels, sheets and more will be discounted during this period to make room for fresh inventory. This is also the best time to buy small kitchen appliances. Last year, Best Buy discounted small kitchen appliances by up to 67%, while Keurig discounted starter kits to 75%.
beauty supplies
Holiday gift sets left over from the holiday season are often further discounted. Target is known to have leftover gift sets from popular brands that are perfect for next year’s Christmas gifts. In January, ULTA also holds a Love Your Skin event, usually with a 50% discount. The Victoria’s Secret Annual Sale is also the perfect time to shop for beauty products and fragrances, with savings of up to 60% off.
Winter clothing and accessories
Most retailers will be heavily discounting coats and sweaters starting in January. Keep an eye out for sales from brands like Eddie Bauer, REI and J. Crew. Even some accessory brands are cutting prices. For example, Kate Spade is running an incredible sale with items starting at $11. You can’t beat the deep discounts retailers are offering right now, especially if you’re trying to save on your budget when it comes to next year’s Christmas shopping.
Christmas shopping on a budget
If you’re looking for Christmas shopping deals on a budget, now’s the perfect time. Be sure to follow popular couponers like Crazy Coupon Lady on social media to get alerts on all the best deals. Many of the items on sale sell out quickly.
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