Three Tips for Buying Last Minute Gifts

I know I started talking about saving for the holidays and buying gifts back in the beginning of November. but let’s be honest, how many people actually did that? Maybe 50%?

Today’s post is for the other half of you.

There’s no shame in doing your gift buying at the last minute. In fact, in some cases it might benefit you by getting you some really good deals.

 

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J.Crew Sweater / American Eagle Jeggings / Madewell Tote / Keds x Rifle Paper

But I also want to make sure that you don’t get screwed over either, so I wanted to share three tips for buying last minute gifts.

1. Major Shipping Dates

If you’re going to be doing some last minute mailing to friends and family, here are the shipping dates that USPS wants you to know:
December 22: Last day for Priority Mail Express and UPS Next Day
December 23: Last Day for FedEx Overnight

Remember though, Christmas Eve is on a Sunday and I really don’t trust weekend deliveries. So if you’re waiting until that day, mail with caution.

2. Don’t get suckered into paying insane amounts for fast shipping.

I know, I know, I just talked about major shipping dates and making sure you get things on time. However, that doesn’t mean that you need to spend all of your money on express shipping. There are plenty of sites right now that are offering free or two day shipping, so take a look at those sites (like Everlane).

If you’re looking for something specific, now would be a great time to use your Amazon prime account or try the Amazon Prime 30-Day free trial just to get that free two day shipping. Just make sure you put an alert on your calendar to cancel it once you get all of your items.

3. You haven’t missed out on all of the major sales.

I know it seems like you did, but some of the best sales actually happen in the weeks between Cyber Monday and Christmas. A lot of great brands are doing amazing sales right now, so you can pick up what you need at really discounted price.

Check out tomorrow’s Friday Night Links where I’ll share some of the best sales going on this weekend.

Photography by Kimberly Graydon