How to Prepare for Next Christmas This Year

Now that Christmas is over, did you know that there are a few easy ways you can get ahead for next year? You will save time, money, and another shopping trip with these easy tips on how to prepare for next Christmas.

There are some easy ways you can get ahead for next year. You will save time, money, and another shopping trip with these easy tips on how to prepare for next Christmas.

Think about the things you need from year to year:

• baking supplies
• decorations
• baked goods and candy
• wrapping paper
• gifts

You don’t even have to shop in-store. You can shop online at retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. Most products are already at least 50% off NOW!

What to Do with Leftover Christmas Baked Goods

Ration throughout the week. Instead of letting the kids binge eat those holiday treats, hand them out a few pieces at a time, until it’s all gone.
Use in baking.  Use chocolates, peppermints, and caramels to add into cookies, brownies, and as cupcake toppers.
Divvy up into snack size portions to use in school lunches. What a way to keep Christmas alive by enjoying a few pieces with your lunch each day.

Related: How to Get Your House Back in Shape After Christmas

Christmas Clearance

Stores like Target feature holiday markdowns typically on a predictable schedule. I read the following online: clearance merchandise goes to 50% off the day after the holiday, then 3 days later 75%. Bagged candy starts at 30% then goes to 50% and 75%. Again, 3 days after that what’s left is 90% off. 2 days after that it goes to salvage (Goodwill).

I’ve also found really good deals (like 90% off at Walgreens). You have to start visiting the store right away to keep an eye on the discount and stock level. It doesn’t last longer than about a week. The stores are clearing the shelves out very quickly to make room for New Year’s and then Valentine’s Day. Get it while you can!

What Should I Buy During Christmas Clearance?

Candy. You can use it for Valentine’s Day, Easter baskets, or general purposes. Do you really need a reason to buy candy?

Decorations. Buy candles, stickers, decals, knick-knacks, statues, and other decorations to use for next Christmas.

Wrapping paper. If you can get it for 90% off, why not? Just remember that you bought it. Then, next year, you won’t have to. Bonus tip: buy solid colors (red, silver, gold, etc. and you can use it for wrapping birthday presents, too.)

Christmas cards.

Holiday Gift Baskets.

Seasonal Flavors. Think pumpkin spice and eggnog.

Seasonal Paper/Plastic Goods. Holiday prints including snowflakes and Christmas trees, Christmas-themed storage containers, and paper supplies. Who cares if there’s a reindeer on the container or the napkins have Christmas trees?

Post-Christmas Shopping List

• Elf on the Shelf
• Christmas lights
• Inflatables
• Artificial Christmas tree
• Christmas music
• Christmas movies
• Christmas decor
• Gingerbread House kits
• Christmas ornaments
• Christmas clothing
• outdoor decor
• tree skirts and stands
• wreaths
• stockings
• tableware
• seasonal storage containers

Get more after Christmas clearance shopping tips, too, from my friend Joyce.

Do you plan for next Christmas right away?