Always go to well marked and well-lighted shops. Never park far away when going to a new shop alone, unless you are familiar with the area. If you are not sure of the area, ask around. If you are still not sure, hesitate to go somewhere new or out of your own area unless you can get some kind of positive feedback on the shopping area itself. Ask your local Chamber of Commerce, or call your non emergency police station phone number located in your Yellow Pages if the new place you want to go shopping at is relatively safe before venturing out.
Information is power.
As an added bonus, if you do not have all the cash or credit that you can possibly want for holiday shopping, the fun can still be in taking your time while doing the actual shopping on your shopping trip. Take time out to really absorb and enjoy the Christmas spirit when you shop. Look at the festive displays, the brightly colored array of ornaments, trees, or product showcases. Check all of your available resources such as your local radio stations, local television stations, public libraries, and any newspapers in your area for free or inexpensive events occuring around your holiday shopping trips, along with their dates and times to plan your shopping around them. Whether you are buying minimally or splurging on gifts this holiday season, take time out to enjoy the holiday ambiance.