Shop Early and Stay Out of Debt

If you frequent the frugal-living blogosphere, you probably have come across some discussions lately about shopping early for the holidays and staying out of debt. So, what are some practical ways you can accomplish these things?

Shopping Online
I hate crowds, so this year I plan to avoid the malls and do most of my shopping online. If you’re of a like mind, keep your eyes peeled for special percentage-off or free shipping deals from your favorite online merchants. Many of them already have such offers out there for early holiday shoppers.

When shopping online, Overstock.com is a great place to look for a variety of gifts, from sheet sets and suede boots to toys. Here are some offers for additional savings at Overstock.com you might find useful. Don’t forget to check out their nice selection of down bedding.

JCPenney is another merchant offering a wide selection of items, from clothing and jewelry to toys and furniture. Before you shop, check out these money-saving online offers from JCPenney, including free shipping on purchases of $99 or more.

Giving Gift Cards
We’ve all heard the pros and cons of giving gift cards. On the downside, they are less personal and do not require much thought on the part of the giver. On the other hand, they are the easiest gift to buy. Not to mention, I enjoyed spending every gift card I received last year as they afforded me an evening out for dinner or a leisurely afternoon out for shopping the post-holiday sales. When in doubt about whether to go the gift card route, I say go for it! Give a gift card to anyone you think would enjoy treating themselves to a meal out or some new clothes, books, etc.

Doing it Debt Free
As for staying out of debt when holiday shopping, TV show host and financial advisor Dave Ramsey has some great articles on his Web site regarding Tips for Surviving Christmas Financially and how to Lose the January Bills Blues. A good bottom-line rule of thumb seems to be that if you cannot afford certain gifts, do not buy them. The stress of paying off bills after Christmas does not make it worth it to give those expensive gifts.

Just think, if you get your shopping done early, you can spend a good part of December enjoying the parties, food and family. And if you do have to hit the mall on a weekend afternoon this holiday season, it will be because you just can’t do without your favorite Gloria Jean’s peppermint latte, which you will savor leisurely as you watch the crushing rush pass through.

Now let’s hear from you. How and when do you plan to shop this year?