Brits already beginning Christmas buying – as they concern objects will promote out

A quarter of Brits have already kick-started their Christmas shopping due to fears of items selling out. As we celebrate 100 Days to Christmas today (16th September), a survey of 2,000 adults revealed that half have struggled to secure in-demand gifts in the past, with 30% missing out entirely.

As a result, 38% feel anxious until they’ve secured the item and 36% are left feeling drained considering what they need to purchase. However, of these early birds, 36% have already bought the main present for an adult.

Shoppers are most worried about decorations (36%), the latest tech products (32%), children’s advent calendars (29%) and must-have Christmas toys (29%) selling out. The study was commissioned by cashback and rewards company Rakuten.

Its shopping and trends expert, Alex Stedman, said: “There are many factors that encourage FOSO a fear of selling out. From missing out in the past to seeing a product becoming increasingly popular on social media – many worry that they might not be able to get hold of their perfect gift.”

He added: “And it’s easy to see why, over the years we’ve seen many sought after items such as beauty advent calendars, and items like game consoles become gold dust and create panic.”

In addition to avoiding sell-outs, many are starting the season early to spread the cost (52%). A significant number of people are starting their Christmas shopping early to snag the best deals (45%), or simply because they’re Christmas enthusiasts (26%).

Savvy shoppers are employing smart strategies for their festive splurging, including making good use of loyalty points accumulated throughout the year, with 25% using them to tackle the hefty holiday costs.

What’s more, a canny 15% of shoppers are turning to cashback websites to boost their festive coffers, with 43% of these savvy savers earmarking their online earnings specifically to cover Yuletide expenses.

Meanwhile, 40% are going the extra mile by snapping up gifts super early to ensure the cash is nestled in their accounts come December.

A study conducted via OnePoll.com has unboxed the fact that Brits are dolling out an average of £626 on Christmas cheer this season.

Alex Stedman went on to say: “By planning ahead, we’re not only securing gifts we know our loved ones will want, but also ensuring a much more stress-free festive season – something we can all aspire to.”

“What’s more, by also maximising deals and cashback offers, we can stretch our spending power, adding even more festive magic to the occasion.”

Here are some top tips from shopping experts to avoid missing out on Christmas must-haves:

1. Subscribe: If an item is sold out, don’t panic. Many retailers offer alerts when it’s back in stock, and with 100 days until Christmas, you’ll likely have time to grab it.
2. Capitalise: Monitor for deals. Often these happen before December so sign up to retailer sites and be ready to grab a bargain when they happen.
3. Maximise: Utilise a cashback shopping platform to earn cashback on top of deals and sales, maximising your festive funds.
4. Organise: If the fear of missing out is just too much, have a backup gift in mind. Often the receiver has no idea what you have planned! And they’ll be fine if it changes. This reduces stress and ensures you have options.