Tip of the week: How to prepare for holiday shopping

Chart a course. Most mall websites provide store locations and information about parking, restaurants, and holiday events. Before arriving, decide which stores to hit, in which order—and how to get out fast.

Dress the part. Be sure to wear “comfortable shoes” to handle “all that walking.” Also, it’s wise to “leave your coat in the car” to keep it from weighing you down.

Don’t get lost. Come prepared with a list and make a “beeline for select stores.” If you must wander, do so wisely. “Shop in circles, starting at a store you will remember,” then circumnavigating the entire floor before heading upstairs.

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Take breaks. “Shopping till you drop” is not smart. Stop for a snack or just to regroup on a bench before heading back.

Watch the spending. If you’re shopping on a budget, “stick to the list” to avoid impulse buys. In the midst of holiday madness, you can’t expect to be thinking clearly.

Source: Midwest Living