by Allen Teal

Created on: April 05, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

For the last-minute gift shopper, the shopping starts before you leave the house. Take about 5 minutes and decide ahead of time what you are willing or able to spend. Because you don't have a lot of shopping opportunity to look for bargains, there is little reason to go to a high-end store with a low-end budget.

Once you have decided on a price range, think about the person that will receive the gift. Are you shopping for a clothes horse? Do they collect anything that isn't too pricey? Do they have a hobby? Are they big readers? These types of questions will narrow the scope of where you will do your shopping. If any of these fit, you're almost done before you leave home. Just drive straight to the store that sells something in the right category and buy it.

Should you not be well enough acquainted with the person to know much about them, then you need to go the generic route. Stay away from perfumes and colognes unless you know they really do like Old Spice. Jewelry is usually a little too pricey, but for a woman, a nice set of earrings will sometimes work. For most women who are past 30, go for a nice piece of crystal or a picture frame. Most men under 30, a hand held game is a good choice. Boys like toys.

If all else fails, you have the gift card with a funny card to hold it. If you go the gift card route, try to make it for a store where the person is likely to shop. An alternative to this would be certificates for dining out at a popular restaurant. I've never been disappointed to receive one of these.

For wrapping, if necessary, go with a gift bag that features the occasion, if possible. Pick up some cheap tissue paper to cover the gift, and you're finished.

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