I finished my holiday shopping in October. I saved money by shopping at Dollar Tree, thrift stores, and on clearance racks.

The author, shown shopping at Dollar Tree, has been stashing away inexpensive holiday gifts throughout the year.

Courtesy of Ashley Archambault.

• Every December, I spend more than I expect to on holiday gifts, and shopping takes up so much time.
• This year, I shopped early at thrift stores and from the clearance racks at stores I love.
• I finished my shopping in October and will have more time to spend with my family in December.

I love the atmosphere of stores during the Christmas season. The decorations, the elaborate displays, the gift boxes. I enjoy it all. But I usually catch myself spending more than I intended.

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This year, I wanted to avoid that. So, instead of a mad dash to get everything done in the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I've been picking up things throughout the year for my loved ones.

This strategy of buying one or two low-cost things here and there, instead of buying a lot at once in December, has been way easier on my budget, too.

Much to my surprise, I was completely done with my shopping in October. Now I'll be free to enjoy the holiday season with my friends and family instead of stressing about getting gifts for everyone on my list.

I embraced thrifting

At the beginning of the year, I started thinking a lot about what my money might be supporting when I decided to shop at a particular store. I wanted to be more conscientious of where I was spending my money, especially when my budget feels tight due to rising costs.

The author (center), shown with her family last Christmas, said she has spent December running around looking for gifts in past years.

Courtesy of Ashley Archambault.

I started going to thrift stores that directly support a charity, so I feel like I'm finding treasures, keeping them out of the landfill, and helping a cause I love. At thrift stores, I primarily find clothes, kitchenware, home decor, and vintage or analog things, like CDs, DVDs, and craft supplies. I have found thoughtful gifts for almost everyone I know.

I found good deals in an unexpected place

Our family also celebrates Jólabókaflóð, an Icelandic holiday centered on gifting books, which we exchange on Christmas Eve.

I've acquired so many books for my husband and son from used book sales at my local libraries that I'll be able to give them each a book-of-the-month box for 2027.

My local library feels like a well-kept secret when it comes to buying used books. I often leave with a bag full of new hardcover bestsellers, children's books, and even cookbooks for under $5 — total. I love that these sales directly support the library and help me stay out of trouble with my own book budget.

I stocked up without a plan

I've always loved Trader Joe's and Aldi, but when I discovered there was a whole beauty-dupe scene at these stores, it became a hobby to peruse their shelves for fun. I've picked up several self-care items throughout the year that I know will be perfect for someone on my list — maybe a teacher or a girlfriend — because at these lower prices, I can afford to buy extra things to keep on hand.

I've had the most luck finding amazing deals on Christmas gifts within the clearance aisles at Marshalls and TJ Maxx. I've always loved both stores, but I challenged myself on my visits to only shop from the clearance sections for steals. I got a little addicted to the thrill of finding something high quality at a bargain price. On one trip to Marshall's, I found a beautiful pair of pearl earrings for my aunt and a sweater set for a good friend. Each gift was under $10.

The author, shown with her son when he was 1, said she is looking forward to spending more time with her family this holiday season.

Courtesy of Ashley Archambault.

I've also grabbed a few stocking stuffers every time I've been to Dollar Tree or Five Below. I know I've scored things my son will enjoy come Christmas morning.

This December, I'm giving myself time back

Past holidays have been so busy that I don't always get to do the things I actually want to do. For example, I love making salt dough ornaments, but haven't had time to do so in years. I also love making cookies while watching classic movies or driving around with my family to see holiday lights. Now, I can do these kinds of things more than just once this year. I can't wait.

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