This post is sponsored by Tropical Smoothie Cafe. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

When it comes to Christmas, I find that there tends to be two types of shoppers: the early birds or the last minute Christmas Eve shoppers. Regardless of what type of shopper you are, these Christmas shopping tips to finish your shopping in one day are going to save you time, sanity and money! With the holiday season being hectic and crazy the closer it gets to the big day, getting your shopping done quickly and painlessly as possible takes one major thing off your to-do list so you can spend more time enjoying the season with family and friends.

Make A List (And Check It Twice)

Make a comprehensive list of everyone that you need to buy for: family members, neighbors, friends, teachers, service people, etc. Start your list a few days before you plan on shopping so you have a few days to think over it and add people as needed. Once you have your master list, write down a gift idea(s) for each person and where you can purchase it. I like to keep my list on my phone so that I don’t lose it accidentally while shopping. Don’t forget stocking stuffers too!

Plan Your Day

Once you have your list of who you and what you need to shop for, map out which stores you need to shop at and make a route plan. There’s no need to zip back and forth across or around town so plan to shop on one end of town and move towards the other. Not only will it save you time, but gas money too!

Stay Fueled & Hydrated

Recharge during lunch with a wholesome sandwich, wrap, flatbread or bowl from Tropical Smoothie Cafe. Choosing a fresh & protein-rich lunch instead of heavy and greasy burger and fries will energize you instead of making you feel like taking a snooze. My favorites are the fresh pressed sandwiches – the Chicken Caprese is so fresh and craveable!

Pair your lunch with a festive and delicious Very Berry Cranberry or Cranberry Truffle smoothie to give you an extra boost. The Very Berry Cranberry is loaded with strawberries and cranberries while the decadent Cranberry Truffle has cranberry, strawberry, low-fat yogurt (extra protein boost) and Ghiradelli white chocolate. I’m not going to lie….I’m totally addicted to the Cranberry Truffle! While you’re out shopping for others, make sure to treat yourself too (and sign up for their club for exclusive savings!). Don’t forget to pick up some Tropical Smoothie Cafe gift cards for stocking stuffers!

Spend Smart

If you have a hard time sticking to a budget, head to the bank before you shop to withdraw the amount of cash you’ll need to complete your shopping. If you use credit cards regularly and responsibly, make sure to check out which ones have the best benefits or cash back bonuses and use them accordingly.

Coupons and Apps

So many stores now have their own apps and you can save a ton of cash by checking for coupons and exclusive savings! There are also many apps that allow you to scan your receipts after shopping for additional money back (many pay through PayPal or gift cards).

Don’t Forget The Small Things

While you’re out and about, don’t forget all the extras (wrapping paper, gift bags, tags, tape, gift cards, bows, etc.) that you’ll need for wrapping and decorating all those hand-picked, perfect gifts.


Are you a last minute shopper or do finish your shopping early? 

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