The easiest way to shop is by person and budget. Start with our gift guides by recipient: gifts for him, gifts for her and gifts for kids. Each guide is organized by interests and price so you can narrow it down quickly.
For smaller budgets and extras, see stocking stuffers and gifts under $25, which also work well for coworkers, teachers and neighbors. Heading to an office party? Our white elephant gifts guide has funny and genuinely useful picks.
A simple list keeps holiday shopping under control. Write down everyone you buy for, set a budget for each person, and note one or two interests next to each name. Buy the hardest gifts first, such as popular toys and electronics, because they sell out soonest. Keep receipts and check return windows, which are often extended during the holidays.
Shop early when you can. Popular items sell out in December, and shipping slows down as Christmas gets closer. Check each retailer's last order date for Christmas delivery, and keep gift receipts for easy returns.