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Save Big with These Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips

Believe it or not, we’ve officially made it to mid-December — and if it feels like the month is flying by, you’re not alone. Hanukkah is well underway, and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday to-do lists growing by the minute, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when it comes to staying on budget.

The good news? It’s not too late to save. Whether you’re checking off the final gifts or prepping for celebrations, these five last-minute holiday shopping tips will help you keep spending in check — while still embracing the season.

1. Watch for Last-Minute Sales

Retailers (both big and small) are rolling out daily deals in a final push to hit their end-of-year goals. Flash sales — especially on clothing, accessories, and beauty — can pop up quickly, so staying alert is key.

To get ahead, sign up for your favorite store’s emails and check their websites regularly. You might catch that perfect gift at a fraction of the price.

2. Redeem Your Kicks

If you’re a Shopkicker, don’t forget about your kicks! Check your balance and redeem those hard-earned points for digital gift cards.

Whether you’re shopping for toys, tech, or last-minute stocking stuffers, using kicks to offset your total is a win. Even a small reward can help ease the end-of-year budget strain.

3. Stick to Your List

Quick store runs are part of holiday life — but they’re also where impulse buys sneak in. Before you head out, make a clear list of what you actually need and stick to it.

If something unplanned catches your eye, pause and ask: Does this align with my priorities? Will it stretch my budget? Having a list helps you shop with intention and minimize regret.

4. Shop Online + Pick Up In-Store

Curbside pickup has become a holiday hero. Not only does it help you avoid shipping fees and long delivery windows, but it also limits in-store temptations.

Many retailers offer same-day pickup, allowing you to shop online, earn kicks, and stay within your budget — all without waiting in checkout lines. It’s fast, efficient, and smart.

5. Go Homemade

Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive. Homemade gifts are a heartfelt and budget-friendly way to show you care.

Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a DIY ornament, or a framed photo, handmade gifts add a personal touch to the season — and often mean more than store-bought ones.

Wrap Up the Season with Smart Spending

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to derail your budget. With a little planning, a few clever tricks, and help from apps like Shopkick, you can save money and still enjoy the magic of the season.

P.S. Haven’t redeemed your kicks yet? Now’s the time! Download the free Shopkick app, earn rewards just for shopping how you already do, and make the most of every last-minute trip.

Earn Head to Toe Kicks at The Body Shop, Forever 21, and Footlocker

Does anyone else feel as though the holidays are arriving early this year? It may only be the beginning of November, but I’ve felt as though I’ve been prepping since just before Halloween. My first gifts have already been purchased, I’m constantly adding new gift ideas for friends and family to my list, and I’m searching for holiday outfits for December (and beyond!).

Today’s retailers are the perfect place to go for holiday gifts, outfits, and January’s fitness prep! Get ready to love finds from The Body Shop, Forever 21, and Footlocker. All three stores have pieces for everyone on your list, including you, and you can earn kicks when you shop with Shopkick.

The Body Shop:

If there’s one thing that feels like a necessary luxury to me, it’s bath products. Between mornings spent running and days spent working (plus, every activity in between!), purchasing wonderful lotions, body washes, skincare products, and makeup always feels like a necessary indulgence. Using any combination of these products from The Body Shop always feels like such a treat!

The Body Shop’s body butters are some of my favorites, especially during the cold, long, and very dry winter months when my skin can’t seem to soak up enough moisture, because they provide the best kind of relief. Did I mention they have amazing scents? Anything that smells like citrus wins in my book! Their body washes are cleansing and hydrating. Facemasks are fun to do on the weekends, especially if you invite your girlfriends over for a spa night paired with movies or Netflix. And, The Body Shop’s makeup line is wonderful if you’re looking to pick up any new shades for the holidays (hello, red lipstick!).

Bath products make some of the best gifts whether you’re stuffing a stocking, treating your mom, aunt, or sister, or introducing your best friend to a new must-have. Make sure to shop all of the products at The Body Shop with Shopkick so you can earn kicks!

Forever 21:

No matter the season, I always enjoy shopping at Forever 21. I have found some of my most unique pieces thanks to them! Plus, Forever 21 has an excellent selection of dresses, skirts, and blouses for every party from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Because their finds are always budget friendly, I never question picking up a selection of new pieces so I can easily mix and match for events and every day.

Not only do they have a great selection of clothing, but they also have a fantastic selection of accessories. Expect to find flats, heels, boots, and even sandals at the same incredible prices you’re used to paying for clothing. Plus, you can also stock up on statement jewelry. Forever 21 also launched their Holiday Guide, which has recommendations for all of the ladies on your list.

Forever 21 makes shopping so easy, and their great prices and fun finds make trying new trends even more enjoyable. Shopping at Forever 21 is now even better and more budget friendly because you can shop through Shopkick and earn kicks!  

Foot Locker:

My favorite way to start any morning is by running. Excellent shoes are key for running, which is why one of my go-to brands is Asics. Their sneakers provide an excellent level of support, and they’re designed with runners in mind. Foot Locker is a great place to purchase Asics! Not to mention, they also carry a host of other brands, like Adidas, New Balance, Nike, Ugg, and Vans, for virtually any other shoe need you have.

Not only are sneakers key, but I find I feel more prepared for any workout when I’m wearing clothing that makes me feel confident. Foot Locker carries athleisure too! They have everything from leggings and shorts to tees and dresses for any type of workout. The best part about wearing great athleisure outfits is you can transition from your workout into running errands without ever having to change. Anything that saves time is helpful!  

The best goals don’t begin on January 1. Instead, the best way to reach your goals is by starting as soon as possible. So, stock up on sneakers and athleisure from Footlocker now to start (or continue!) your fitness journey. You’ve got this, Shopkicker!

Whether you’re stocking up on the best bath and body products from The Body Shop, filling your holiday wardrobe at Forever 21, or getting a head start on your new fitness attire at Footlocker, now is the time to shop with these great brands with Shopkick.