Getting Christmas shopping all wrapped up so you can have a stress-free sherry and indulge in festive television repeats doesn’t have to be difficult.

 

Here are 12 merry tips for Christmas spending:

1 Make a list and stick to it: otherwise you could wander around vaguely getting tired and disillusioned pretty quickly.

2 Shop over the phone: many companies can deliver by post straight to the present recipient; smoked salmon or wine, for example.

3 Avoid mail order misery: ensure that your gifts will arrive in time for Christmas.

4 Nip to France: for unusual groceries and presents. A hamper filled with goodies that may be quite run of- the-mill in France will be a big treat in the UK.

5 Avoid rush hour: try using up a spare day’s holiday from work and hit the shops on a quiet Monday morning when they’re less hectic.

6 Shop alone: unless you are incapable of making decisions, you’ll get a lot more done on your own.

7 Focus on one group at a time: getting into children/men/auntie mode will get you into the right frame of mind.

8 Buying in a hurry?: try sticking to one theme, like music, books or toiletries to avoid confusing yourself and rushing around shops.

9 Don’t shop ‘till you drop: stopping every couple of hours will keep up your energy levels.

10 Ask for help: go to department stores and book/request the advice of a personal shopper. They’ll know what’s in store and where it is, saving you lots of hassle. They’re also handy if you’re lacking inspiration.

11 Make checks at the till: find out how long you have to return something to the shop or get a refund, and jot it down on a pad.

12 Stay organised: keep all your Christmas receipts in one envelope so that you can find them easily if you need to return a gift.