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Christmas Shopping in July? Trust Me, Your December Self Will Thank You!
I know… it sounds a little crazy.
It’s the middle of summer. The kids are swimming, you’re thinking about cookouts, vacations, and back-to-school shopping. Christmas is probably the last thing on your mind.
But hear me out.
I’ve learned over the years that July is actually one of the BEST times to do Christmas shopping. In fact, I try to pick up gifts whenever I find a great deal instead of waiting until November or December.
Why?
Because saving money never goes out of style.
The Best Deals Aren’t Always During the Holidays
Most people assume Black Friday has the lowest prices, but that’s not always true.
Many retailers are clearing out summer inventory while also competing with big July sales events. That means you can often find incredible bargains on clothing, shoes, toys, games, electronics, home décor, and kitchen items.
I’ve found some amazing deals at Walmart, but they’re certainly not the only store worth checking. Target, Kohl’s, Amazon, Dollar General, Family Dollar and many other retailers are also running major summer sales.
The key is to shop the clearance sections and watch for those deep markdowns.
Stock Up on Clothes
One thing I always look for in July is clothing.
Summer apparel often gets marked down as much as 90%!
I’ve picked up pajamas, hoodies, jeans, dresses, winter coats, and shoes for a fraction of what they cost later in the year.
If you know your kids’ sizes—or even buy one size up—you can save a bundle.
Toys and Games Start Going on Sale Too
Believe it or not, July can be a great time to grab toys and board games.
Retailers often discount popular items during summer sales events, and the selection is still pretty good before the holiday rush begins.
Instead of fighting crowds in December or worrying whether something is sold out, you can quietly tuck gifts away throughout the year.
It also spreads out the cost, which is much easier on the budget.
Think Beyond Toys
Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive.
Some of the best presents I’ve given were practical things people actually needed.
Keep an eye out for deals on:
- Small kitchen appliances
- Baking supplies
- Blankets
- Candles
- Books
- Craft supplies
- Coffee mugs
- Water bottles
- Beauty products
- Gift sets
- Electronics
- Outdoor toys
- Stocking stuffers
Little by little, your Christmas closet starts filling up without emptying your wallet.
Don’t Forget Wrapping Supplies
This is another area where you can save.
I’ve found wrapping paper, gift bags, tissue paper, ribbons, and gift boxes on clearance throughout the year.
Buying them when they’re discounted means one less thing to worry about during the busy holiday season.
Make a Gift List Now
One thing that helps me stay organized is keeping a simple Christmas gift list.
I write down everyone I need to buy for and jot down ideas whenever I think of something. Then, when I find a great deal, I can cross that person off my list.
No guessing in December.
No last-minute panic buying.
No overspending because I’m in a hurry.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Christmas should be about making memories—not stressing over your budget.
Shopping a little at a time lets you enjoy the season so much more. You’ll avoid crowded stores, shipping delays, and those “I wish I had bought that when it was on sale” moments.
So the next time you’re walking through Walmart or browsing your favorite online store, take a peek at the clearance aisles.
You might just find the perfect Christmas gift at an unbelievable price.
Your future self—and your bank account—will be glad you did!
Do you shop for Christmas all year long, or are you a last-minute shopper? I’d love to hear your favorite money-saving tips in the comments!
Want to Save Even More This Christmas?
If you love finding bargains and stretching your holiday budget, you’ll love my Christmas with Strategic Shopping: The Twelve Months of Christmas eBook. It’s packed with month-by-month shopping tips that show you what to buy, when to buy it, and how to score the best deals all year long—so you can fill your gift closet without emptying your wallet. Written from my own experience as a mom of twelve, it’s the same strategy I’ve used for years to make Christmas affordable and much less stressful.
🎄 Start shopping smarter today and make this your most budget-friendly Christmas yet! Get your copy here!
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