Why You Should Start Holiday Shopping Early This Year

Tue, Nov 04, 2025

'Tis almost the season, and holiday magic is just around the corner. If buying gifts seems more like a chore than cheer, here’s a little holiday hack: Start early! Checking off your gift list ahead of time means less stress and more time for cookie baking, tree decorating, and all the giggles that make this season so special.

When to Start Christmas Shopping

While there’s no single "right" time to start, aiming to begin your Christmas shopping in October or the beginning of November can make a significant difference. Santa’s elves start early and smart gift givers know why. Wait too long and you’ll be battling crowds, scrambling for this year’s must-have toy, and hoping Rudolph himself helps with delivery. Taking your time allows you to head into the season with more mindfulness and intention.

The Perks of Early Christmas Shopping

Getting your holiday shopping done ahead of schedule comes with several fantastic advantages. From saving money to reducing stress, here are some of the best reasons to start early.

Gift With Purpose

Getting a jump on your shopping gives you plenty of time to thoughtfully consider what each child on your list would genuinely love. Instead of rushing and picking whatever is available, you can discover gifts that are truly personal and meaningful. This approach makes the gift extra special for the recipient and brings you greater joy as the giver.

Enjoy Stress-Free Gifting

Imagine a December where your shopping is already complete. You can spend your weekends watching holiday movies or relaxing by the fire instead of navigating crowded stores. Early shopping removes the last-minute rush, allowing you to be more present and enjoy the festive atmosphere. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that all your gifts are wrapped and ready, turning what can be a stressful task into a joyful one.

Stick to Your Budget

Spreading your holiday spending over several months is much easier on your wallet than trying to fit it all into one or two paychecks. You can take advantage of sales and promotions as they pop up throughout the fall. This allows you to allocate your funds more effectively, avoid impulse buys driven by panic, and prevent the financial strain that can come with last-minute shopping sprees.

Get the Best Selection

Popular toys and gifts often sell out long before December arrives. Early shoppers can get the first pick of the most sought-after items. You won’t have to worry about your child’s number one wish being out of stock or settling for a second-best option. Having a wider selection means you can find the perfect color, size, and style, ensuring the gift you give is exactly what you envisioned.

Avoid Shipping Delays

Mailing your packages or having them delivered? As the holidays get closer, shipping carriers become overwhelmed with packages, leading to potential delays. Making pre-peak season purchases gives your gifts plenty of time to get where they need to be.

Still not sure it’s time to start? See how Madison Fisher got ahead of the holiday rush. Her KidKraft playhouse is already home, decorated, and ready for Christmas fun.

@kylerandmad We’re getting ahead on holiday shopping this year 🎁 The kids are already obsessed with their new @KidKraft playhouse! You can save up to 60% off now with their Pre-Black Friday sale! #KidKraftPartner ♬ original sound - Fishfam

How to Start Christmas Shopping Early

It’s beginning to look a lot like…shopping season! These easy tips will help you get a head start on your holiday shopping.

Make a Detailed Gift List

Take a tip from Santa: make a list and check it twice. The first step to successful holiday shopping is knowing what you’re looking for. Create a detailed list of everyone you need to buy for, and next to each name, jot down a few notes, like:

Gift ideas: Include items they’ve hinted at or toys that fit their interests. Maybe a dollhouse for little storytellers who love make-believe, or a play kitchen for mini chefs who dream up their own five-star menus.
Favorites: Think about what makes them smile—arts and crafts, building blocks, or pretend play. A train set or art table could be perfect for kids who love to create and explore.
Ages: Match gifts to their age and skill level. A toddler might love a ride-on toy, while older kids might be ready for competitive games.
Must-buys: Don’t forget the special pieces that will become cherished parts of the backyard, like an outdoor playset for backyard adventures or a sandbox for sunny-day fun.

Need some inspiration? Browse holiday gift guides to spark ideas and discover new favorites.

This list becomes your holiday shopping roadmap. It helps you stay organized and on budget. Plus, it keeps you from overbuying or forgetting someone special.

Shop for the Big Gifts First

Focus on the most important or largest gifts on your list first. For many families, this means finding the perfect "wow" gift for the kids. Securing these big-ticket items early, like a two-story outdoor playset or an expansive swing set, guarantees you’ll get what you want before it sells out. Once the main presents are taken care of, you can relax and have fun picking out smaller stocking stuffers and other gifts at your leisure.

Keep an Eye on New Arrivals and Promotions

Many brands release their most exciting new products in the fall, just ahead of the holiday rush. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite stores to stay informed about new arrivals and upcoming sales. Following brands on social media is another great way to get a sneak peek at new items and be the first to know about special promotions. This way, you can snag the latest and greatest gifts while often saving a little money.

By planning ahead, you can transform your holiday shopping from a frantic race into a thoughtful and enjoyable experience. You'll not only find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list but also give yourself the gift of a more peaceful and merry holiday season.