A Canadian's Guide to Holiday Shopping on a Budget
Quick answer
Set one total budget first, list who and what you are buying in priority order, time big purchases around the sales, and compare the total cost including shipping and taxes. A discount is only good value on something you were going to buy anyway.
Set a total budget first
Decide on a total across everyone on your list before browsing any deal. It is easier to skip an impulse purchase when you know exactly how much room is left.
Make a list and prioritize
Write down who you are shopping for and what you would like to get them, in order of priority. If a deal does not appear for an item near the bottom of the list, it is easier to let it go.
Time big purchases around the sales
If you already need a specific big-ticket item, such as a laptop, a major appliance or a TV, Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Boxing Week are the periods when Canadian retailers most often discount it. Note the price in the weeks before so you can recognize a real saving.
Watch shipping costs and delivery times
A good sale price can be eaten by shipping, especially on items from outside Canada, which can also carry customs or duty charges. Check the total at checkout and order early enough that standard shipping arrives in time.
Count the full cost, not the price tag
Keep a running total as you buy, using what you actually paid rather than the listed price. Sales tax varies by province and is not always included in a listed price.
- Add taxes, shipping and any duties to each purchase.
- Leave a small buffer for gift wrap, batteries and accessories that a gift needs.
- Note return deadlines for anything you are unsure about, so a refund does not lapse.
Use gift ideas to narrow choices
If you are not sure what to buy someone, narrowing by recipient or budget before comparing prices is faster than browsing a whole store.
Do not let a discount add a purchase
The easiest way to overspend is buying something because it is discounted, not because it was on your list. A deal is good value only if you were going to buy the item anyway.
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This guide is general information for Canadian shoppers, not financial or legal advice. Prices, availability and policies are set by retailers and can change. We may earn a commission from links on this site, at no extra cost to you; see our affiliate disclosure and editorial standards.