Shopping smart and saving on holiday toys for your kids

Every year, people rush to shop for the hottest holiday toys from late November through December. However, if you want the “IT” items for someone on your list, you may have already missed your window. With money tight for some around the holidays, read on to learn when to shop for the hottest holiday toys. Also, I have some great reasons why you shouldn’t get caught up in holiday hype.

 

Welcome to my budget-friendly series, where I share bits of wisdom I have learned over the years so you can get ahead while staying on budget!

 

Avoid the Hype

Hot holiday toys typically come out before November, usually by September. Resellers often buy them early, so they have them on hand to sell when supply is low. I am not judging. Sometimes people do what they gotta do for their hustle.

When my second-oldest was a baby, a Tickle Me Elmo doll came out that year. It launched in early fall and sold out nationwide by the end of the day. By that evening, several listings went up on eBay, selling for much more than in stores. Each year, a toy like this appears. People selling on eBay or other resale sites know that, as parents, we want the holiday season to seem magical. There is pressure to make sure that our children get everything on their lists.

However…

Remember the hype with Tickle Me Elmo? I know many people who bought them for their children. Six months later, that doll was at the bottom of their toy bins. Why do I mention this? I say this because sometimes these items seem really cool at the time, but the cool factor is short-lived. When shopping for those red-hot items, remember that the hype is sometimes just hype. Sometimes, it isn’t worth chasing the golden goose, especially in our current economy.

 

What to Look For and When to Shop for holiday toys

I always start my holiday shopping early. While I admit that part of it has to do with my anxiety, a big part of it is because I want to make sure I can find what I need and get a good price. Missing all the crowds is just a bonus!

Here Are Some of My Best Tips:

 

• If your child has a favorite show or brand, check out the items now. Some stores that carry toys raise prices on hot items as the holidays approach. Even if you find the item, you may pay more. Many of these stores offer layaway options, so take advantage of that, especially if you want to stick to a budget.
• Don’t forget your local consignment store! I go to Once Upon a Child, check Vinted, and even search eBay because you never know. If you are hoping to score big-ticket items, check the websites now, not later, to get the best prices! Plus, you avoid wrangling toys out of complicated packaging when gifting!
• Also, use shopping apps to find the best holiday prices! These apps can help you find the lowest prices so you keep more money in your pocket.
• Finally, check product reviews, too. That way, you know whether something is worth buying or will end up in the garbage right after New Year’s.

 

Final Thoughts

I know that it is easy to get caught up in the stress of the holidays. I hope these tips make planning this year’s holiday shopping a little easier. Just remember that, at the end of the day, the holidays are about more than gifts. I know it is easier said than done because we all feel like we’re not doing enough. Trust me, you are doing a good job.

I hope these tips make your holiday shopping a little easier.  Don’t forget to follow me over on Instagram for more inspiration, ideas, and family fun! Also, check out some more of my holiday content here!

What advice would you add for holiday shopping? I would love to hear it in the comments below!