Financial Planning

Helpful Tips for Harried Holiday Shoppers

Written by Mint.com
Published Dec 11, 2012
2 min read
The views expressed on this blog are those of the bloggers, and not necessarily those of Intuit. Third-party blogger may have received compensation for their time and services. Click here to read full disclosure on third-party bloggers. This blog does not provide legal, financial, accounting or tax advice. The content on this blog is "as is" and carries no warranties. Intuit does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of the content on this blog. After 20 days, comments are closed on posts. Intuit may, but has no obligation to, monitor comments. Comments that include profanity or abusive language will not be posted. Click here to read full Terms of Service.

With the holidays just around the corner, there’s still much to be done. That’s why New York Times bestselling author and lifestyle expert Jill Martin is on hand to offer some tips for harried holiday shoppers.

Get Something for Your Spend

Make sure the money you’re spending on those holiday gifts is giving you something back in return — whether it’s redeeming credit card points for gift cards, gadgets or air miles, or just simply getting cash back for your money spent.

Convert Rewards and Points for Instant Savings

Just in time for the holiday season, American Express launched Mobile Gift Cards, which lets you download gift cards instantly and use them right at the register at stores like Banana Republic, Gap, Old Navy, PBteen®, Pottery Barn®, Pottery Barn Kids®, West Elm® and William-Sonoma®…with more retailers to come!

Amex is the only credit card rewards program to currently offer this, which means you can choose to use rewards points for purchases on the spot while you shop. This is especially helpful for those items that don’t go on sale — ever!

Protect Your Purchase and Yourself

When you’re making purchases left and right and checking items off your to-do list, make sure you (and your purchases) are protected. Use a card that protects you from fraud, damages, and bad return policies.

Practicality Can Be Chic

Consider what a friend or family member needs in their home and daily lives. It may not seem like an exciting gift, but your gift will surely be well-used and appreciated. But practical doesn’t mean boring — even something as practical as kitchen appliances can come with bold design and personality.

Give the Gift of Experience

Experiences can include concerts, dinners, shows and more! If you want to skip the malls altogether, give your loved ones tickets to their favorite band coming to town or a gift card to the restaurant they’ve been meaning to try. Which is something you can likely use those credit card points for by the way.

The final stretch of the season can be crazed, but you can still shop smart while still giving gifts that wow.

“Helpful Tips for Harried Holiday Shoppers” was written by New York Times bestselling author and lifestyle expert Jill Martin.