Let’s be honest—December has a sneaky way of creeping up on us. One minute you're enjoying autumn footy and warm soups, and the next, you're elbow-deep in tinsel, trying to stretch your pay packet further than a Christmas cracker joke. If the festive season always leaves your wallet feeling a bit traumatised, you're not alone. The good news? You can dodge the December financial freak-out by starting your Christmas gift planning in May – or at least 3-4 months early.
Sounds too early? Maybe. But hear us out—getting a head start could mean a merrier, less stressful Christmas for you and your bank account – and your family.
Why Plan So Early?
We know what you're thinking. “It’s May! I’ve only just packed away the Easter eggs.” But that’s exactly the point. When you’re not caught up in the seasonal madness, you’ve got time to breathe, plan, and shop smart.
Why getting ahead of the game makes sense –
- Avoid the panic purchases – No more buying that weird herb soap set for your aunty because it's all that's left at the shops.
- Spread out the spending – Instead of forking out hundreds in one pay cycle, you can chip away bit by bit over the next seven months.
- Catch the sales – Mid-year stocktake sales, EOFY deals, and random clearances are goldmines for savvy gift hunters.
- Thoughtful gifting – You can actually think about what each person would love, instead of guessing under pressure in December.
Step 1 – Make a Christmas Gift List (Yep, Like Santa)
Get cosy with a cuppa and write down everyone you usually buy for—family, friends, co-workers, neighbours, teachers, and maybe that Secret Santa at work. Think back to last year and jot down anyone who popped up unexpectedly (because there’s always one).
Once you've got your list, give each person a rough budget. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but having a ballpark figure helps you stay on track.
Bonus tip: Keep this list somewhere handy, like your phone or planner, so you can update it with ideas or when you’ve ticked someone off the list.
Step 2 – Start Scouting Now
Now that you've got your list and a budget, it’s time for the fun part—shopping!
When you’re not in a rush, you can –
- Compare prices and wait for sales.
- Support local businesses and makers who offer beautiful, unique gifts.
- Look for bundle deals (especially great for hampers—hello, Tastebuds gourmet goodies!).
- Stash away gifts in a ‘Christmas box’ so you’re not hiding things all over the house.
You might even find that shopping early gives you space to get creative. Maybe you'll DIY some gifts or personalise items with time to spare, which is always a hit.
Step 3 – Try the ‘One Gift a Month’ Rule
If you’re on a tight budget (and who isn’t these days?), try buying one gift each month from now until November. That gives you seven months to work through your list. Come December, you’ll only need to wrap them and maybe grab a few last-minute stocking stuffers.
This is also a great way to avoid the nasty credit card hangover in January—because nobody wants to start the new year paying off last year’s festivities.
Step 4 – Set a Gift Stash Budget
To make it easier to stick to your plan, set aside a little cash each week. Even just $10–$20 tucked away can add up over the months. Open a separate savings account, or keep a jar at home labelled ‘Santa Fund’. It sounds basic, but it works.
And remember, it’s not about how much you spend—it’s the thought that counts. A small, meaningful gift given with love beats a last-minute splurge every time.
Step 5 – Don’t Forget the Extras
Gifts are just part of the picture. Christmas also brings wrapping paper, cards, ribbons, postage, Kris Kringles, end-of-year parties, baking supplies, and charity donations. These extras can sneakily chew through your budget if you’re not careful.
Keep a checklist and start grabbing these items during sales or when you see them discounted. You’ll thank yourself when everyone else is paying full price in December.
Tastebuds Tip – Schedule & Pre-Order Christmas Hampers Early
If you love giving Christmas hampers (and honestly, who doesn’t?), Tastebuds has you covered. Pre-ordering gourmet gift hampers in advance not only guarantees you get the best selection, but you’ll also avoid the December shipping rush. Plus, with options for every budget and recipient—from chocoholics to cheese lovers—you can tick off half your list in one go.
Pro tip – Keep an eye on our Christmas Gift offers starting in October. You might just snag a cracker of a deal before the Christmas rush even begins.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Christmas should be a time of joy, not financial stress. By starting your gift planning in May (or at least 3-4 months earlier), you give yourself the gift of time—time to think, time to budget, and time to enjoy the season when it finally rolls around.
And let’s face it—future you will be pretty chuffed when December hits and you’re not dashing around Westfield like a headless chook.
So pop on a playlist, grab a pen, and start jotting down some ideas. Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you later.
Ready to get ahead on Christmas gifting? Browse our delicious range of Christmas hampers at Tastebuds and find the perfect presents to schedule for December now. Christmas in May? Now that’s smart thinking.
