There are about three weeks left until Christmas, and despite the fact that this year was atypical – like the previous one – due to the pandemic, most Portuguese want to keep their traditions from this season. And this is synonymous with gifts. And while many have already started to shop for Christmas – and there are even those who may have already mastered the task – there are always those who prefer to leave the choice at the last minute.

As for the latter, there is always a risk to consider: the more time passes, the fewer buying options you have and, in many cases, they require higher prices. However, it doesn’t have to be a scenario.

Do you want to continue giving the same gifts, spending less than last year? It is possible, and the decision may require less or more consideration when making a choice. There are basic rules you must follow to avoid fiscal imbalances and unpleasant surprises.

There is research for all costs and purchase intentions vary. According to a study by Deco, nearly half of the respondents believe that buying Christmas gifts for family and friends is a major problem, and 54% believe that offering a good gift is a sign of respect for the person who will receive it. Perhaps for this reason, 90% of Portuguese plan to spend an average of 249 euros, with the majority indicating values ​​between 100 and 500 euros.

“About a quarter of the respondents who want to go shopping, especially men, think of a higher Christmas budget than last year and the same share. However, overall, six out of ten always end up spending more than expected. In order to save money, almost a quarter of respondents leave gifts in January to take advantage of the leftovers, ”says a study conducted with 835 consumers.

Most consumers expect to spend more on Christmas shopping this year, according to Accenture’s 15th Holiday Shopping Survey. And it is the 32-39 age group that intends to spend the most this year.

According to research by a consultant, 73% of respondents want to spend as much or more than they spent last year. On average, consumers intend to spend € 529 in 2021, up from € 477 in 2020. However, the 32-39 age group intends to spend an average of 624 euros, which is the highest among those surveyed. “While the expected rise in consumer spending is good news for retailers, our report shows that the events of the past year are likely to impact the consumption habits of different generations during this holiday season,” said Manuela Vaz, vice president of business at Accenture Portugal. retail trade and consumer goods.

He adds: “The events of the past year have compressed into a few weeks what would have taken years to change. For example, the pandemic has forced the older generation to overcome hesitation about online shopping – a trend consistently found in our research. On the other hand, younger consumers who already feel comfortable online seem to be looking for services and opportunities that go beyond shopping. ”

A study of over 1,500 consumers shows that 76% want to spend time with their family this holiday season, 75% plan to buy gifts for close family members, and 41% plan to buy gifts for neighbors, colleagues and friends. This “generosity” is likely to spread to other levels as 70% intend to donate to social support associations and 21% report more donations than last year.

Tips to save money for Christmas

1. Budget

The ideal would be to start shopping early, or set aside some of your income – for example, three months in advance – for this season. But if you prefer to leave everything to the last minute, start by making a list of the people you want to give gifts to, and basically how much you want to spend. From there, he tries to match that list exactly.

2. Anticipate purchases

Time can be your best ally, as the earlier you start shopping, the more chances you have of getting the best gift for you at the best price. Keep in mind that the perfect gift is often the least expensive, but the hardest to find. The more time you have to shop, the less money you will spend, since you will have enough time to choose the best and most affordable. Take advantage of balance, for example.

3. Gift exchange.

Known as a “secret friend”, this is one of the best ways to reduce the number of gifts on offer. Each participant takes a sheet with the name of the other and buys a gift for him. The gift may also have a value limit. This method works very well with colleagues, school, or even with a family if the budget is tight.

4. Use campaigns

Many stores are betting on discounted promotions this season. Enjoy them. Whether it’s discounts at clothing, telecommunications, or beauty stores, it’s worth spending some time looking for the right deal in order to buy the right gifts at the best price (see opposite column).

5. Use coupons.

Using the famous discount coupons can be a good bet. There are several proposals of this type, and if you are looking for a luxurious gift, such as a weekend at a five-star hotel, a romantic dinner at a gourmet restaurant or a full day at the spa, this is the place to be. go.

6. Pay in cash.

Leave your card at home and always pay in cash. This will make it harder to spend in excess of your funds. And if you have a habit of sending greeting cards to family and friends, you can do so via email or e-cards. It’s faster and cheaper this way.

7. Compare prices.

If you are looking to save money on buying gifts, then the Internet can be your best ally. Besides looking for every possible and imaginary gift, there are websites that only compare prices: for example, in the case of Kuanto Kusta. In other words, if you already know that you want to buy a cell phone of a specific make and model, search these sites and you can find an online store that offers the lowest prices for the same product.

8. Customize gifts.

Why not make them a handmade gift? You can be sure that the gift you make will have a much greater impact than the one you chose in a hurry, and that it can be much more expensive. Floral arrangements, gourmet jams, diaries or frames are some ideas. Another possibility is to offer vouchers for your time. Young people can offer a tutoring package or music lessons for the younger ones, or their family’s support for childcare.

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Toys

One of the products in great demand during this period are toys. Most stores have launched campaigns with discounts of up to 50%, and large supermarkets have not forgotten about these discounts.

Christmas baskets

Shopping baskets with traditional products are also available at discounted prices. Chocolates, wines, perfumes, bookstores, toys and small appliances, along with traditional cod and bolo-rais, are among the products that will be eligible for discounts at major supermarkets.

Clothes and footwear

Don’t be surprised if you walk into a store or shoe store and the prices are lower. Many shops use this time to sell their products. Price reductions vary by brand.

Travel

If you are looking to buy or offer a ride as a gift, check out travel agents or search online for a tour. You will probably find interesting deals and suggestions for all wallets. But during a pandemic, there are many uncertainties and obstacles.

Telecommunications and technology

Video game consoles are usually one of the most sought-after gifts, especially for the little ones. The natural choice is almost always one of the three well-known consoles, but it is not always easy to make, and this year due to the chip crisis, it may not be an easy purchase. However, it is worth taking a close look at the promotions and packages that many stores are currently betting on. Also, most telecom operators and retailers are now introducing discounts on various equipment.