There are some people who do not like to shop for Christmas this early. They usually find it hard to go out of their way and select the most appropriate gifts to buy since there is no pressure for them to purchase anyway. Christmas is still months away so why hurry.

Christmas shopping is never fun, at least for some husbands. This is a serious stereotyping on my part, but some will agree with me that if it were left to these loving men, they would not mind not receiving gifts as long as they are not expected to give any. But then again, this is a season of giving gifts, which brings us to one inescapable fact of life - shopping for Christmas gifts is one of the highlights of the season.

To help men conquer the fear of early Christmas shopping, here are some tips gathered from various sources of friends:

1. Shop early. Prices are usually lower when you buy them before the holiday rush and the choices are also better. For husbands who don't want to queue behind the counter, this will also make sense since there are few shoppers around.


2. Prepare a list of the recipients. There's a reason why Santa prepares a list (and checking it twice). You won't forget anyone so you go shopping only once and you don't overspend by buying something to cover anyone you might forget. Don't head out to the store only with your credit card in hand. Impulse shopping can keep you up at night worrying about bills!


3. Set a budget cap. Try to stick strictly to the budget set regardless of the length of your shopping list. While you may be expecting the balance of your 13th month pay or a hefty Christmas bonus (or a 14th, 15th and 16th month bonus), don't stretch it too far. You may need some of those monetary rewards later, when emergency strikes your family.


4. Choose good quality but creative products. A quality gift need not be expensive, although an expensive gift wouldn't hurt if you're full of cash. Christmas is a time to buy gift for others that will last and tickle the fancy of the recipient. Durable and eye-catching items will remind the recipient of your love throughout the coming year.


5. Shop in Divisoria, Greenhills or a tiangge. During the difficult times, even those who have will admit going to places that the have-nots frequently shop. There is no reason why consumers should not buy the same items being sold in high-end malls in run-down establishments and bargain-filled bazaars.


6. Haggle. Haggling is an art. It takes time to master this art. But it doesn’t do harm to try exercising this art to all sellers you meet in discount stores and tiangge stalls. Be prepared to walk away when it's not the price you want. If the seller wants to earn a minimal profit in a very competitive environment, chances are they'll go after your last offer.