Tips To Wade Through The Last Minute Christmas Shopping Frenzy

Tips To Wade Through The Last Minute Christmas Shopping Frenzy

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Story Published: Dec 16, 2004 at 3:22 PM PDT

Story Updated: Aug 31, 2006 at 1:49 AM PDT

By April Zepeda

SEATTLE - If you're anything like the average American, chances are you still have half of your holiday shopping left to do. And some 37 million of us haven't even started!

With just nine shopping days to go, plan on joining the crowds.

The Saturday before Christmas traditionally brings out more shoppers than even the day after Thanksgiving.

So here's some advice from the experts on how to cut down on the shopping hassles.

  • Make a list and check it twice. Santa does it, why shouldn't you? A list gives you a game plan that cuts down on the time spent in the crowds.

  • Consider the best times to shop. During the week and in the daytime, crowds are the lightest.

  • Let the stores do the shipping. Many stores will wrap and ship to your out-of-towners. It's worth the nominal charge to avoid waiting in long lines at the post office.

  • Shop on line. Nearly half of e-tailers will be offering express shipping promotions next week. 28% of them guarantee Christmas arrival if you order by the 20th.

    Some, like amazon.com, guarantee certain gifts will arrive on time if ordered as late as the Dec. 23.

    Whether you hit the pavement or the Internet, just remember the clock is ticking.

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