The countdown is on! With less than a week left before Christmas, you may feel a little overwhelmed. Or perhaps you’re an ace who has everything lined up and ready to go. Odds are good there are a few last minute details you can easily knock out today or tomorrow. Here’s your Last Minute Christmas Checklist to save money and manage your time well.
Balance Your Checkbook
The last few weeks before Christmas feel like a flurry for most of us. There are last minute gifts to buy, trips to the grocery store, Amazon orders, and more. Take a holiday halt and spend a few minutes reconciling your spending. Don’t forget to pay bills that may be due during the busy week between Christmas and the New Year. Glancing over your spending will also ensure you catch any potential erroneous charges or even hacks.
Always Double Check Shipping Options
The majority of online retailers can no longer guarantee your gift will arrive by the big day. Check and double check when items are slated to arrive before clicking buy. Amazon may have a few last minute finds you can purchase. Otherwise, look into curbside or in store pick up when you’re shopping online.
Prepare a Christmas Morning Box
Scissors, batteries, and trash bags – oh my! You might need a few extras as the gifts are unwrapped. Be sure you’ve purchased these items so you’re not caught off guard sitting under the tree. A lot more stores are closed on actual Christmas day so you won’t be able to run out and get them. Think through the presents yet to be opened and anything you may need to go with them. Prep a small box to place near the tree so you’re prepared before the morning becomes a flurry of activity.
Plan Your Meals
Meal planning is a smart idea every week but during the holidays, it’s a lifeline for weary parents everywhere. Even if you plan on hitting the drive through or ordering pizza, write it down. As you plan your meals, jot down your grocery list and maybe even put together a pick up order to be sure you have everything you need.
Evaluate Your Gifts
If you haven’t already, now is the time to check that list twice. No, you’re not considering who’s naughty or nice. You’re determining if you have remembered everyone – family, friends, neighbors, teachers, and coworkers. Lay everything out, maybe finish up the wrapping and be sure you have your bases covered.
Consider Last Minute Gift Ideas
Thank goodness for digital gift cards in a season of crazy. Everyone loves a little spare cash this time of year! So you can easily send a gift card through your phone for everything from Grubhub to Starbucks to Amazon if you’ve forgotten anyone on your list this year. Cookies or Christmas morning cinnamon rolls are always a great idea, too. If you don’t have time to bake, consider picking something up at a place like Costco or Sam’s Club. More ideas can be found here:
- The Best Last Minute Christmas Shopping Tips
- How to Save Money on Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas
- Teacher Christmas Gift Ideas That They’ll Love
Plan Christmas Morning Breakfast
Last but certainly not least, think about what you’ll serve for breakfast on Christmas morning. Be sure you have those items on your grocery list, too. I’ve written a number of posts on Christmas morning breakfast ideas before. You can check them out here:
- Quick & Easy Kid Friendly Christmas Breakfast Ideas
- Night Before Christmas Breakfast Ideas
- A Smart Guide for Christmas Morning Breakfast
While it’s never perfect, Christmas will be wonderful. Take a deep breath and try to focus on what really counts!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
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