The Update

What to Buy and What to Skip This December

As December rolls in, the shopping buzz gets louder—with both opportunities and traps lurking for savvy buyers. Here’s a guide to help you shop smart: what you should buy this month, and what you’re often better off skipping (or buying later).

What to Buy

Gifts and Experiences.

With the holiday season in full swing, this is the time to focus on meaningful gifts and experiences rather than just impulse purchases. According to shopping-experts, having a plan and knowing what you want to buy (and for whom) is key. “The worst tactic for time-bound shopping is to walk into a store looking for deals.” Make a list, set a budget, and stick to it—especially when you’re shopping for family, friends, or co-workers.

High-Demand Items and Tech Gadgets.

Electronics and tech gifts often feature prominently in December offers, especially if you watch for last-minute discounts and bundle deals. Retail analysis shows categories like tech gadgets, home and kitchen décor, personalized and sustainable products are trending for the holiday season. If there’s a specific gadget your loved one has been waiting for (and you find a verified good deal), December can be a good time to buy.

Holiday Décor and Festive Consumables – Early in the Month.

If you’re decorating for the season (or for a farm space like your “Mariposas y Rosas Farm” setup!), consider buying decorations, lighting, and festive items early before the very last-minute rush. Also pick up the special seasonal consumables (like specialty snacks or décor) ahead of peak frenzy so you avoid sell-outs.

Items Where Shipping and Timing Matter.

Because December brings shipping slowdowns and holiday cut-offs, if you need something delivered by a specific date, now is the time to buy it rather than later. Waiting too long puts you at risk of missing key holiday deadlines.

What to Skip (or Delay)

Non-Urgent Big Purchases Waiting for Deeper Discounts.

If you’re looking at items that aren’t tied to the holiday date—such as major home furnishings, seasonal clothing for next year, or winter gear—it may be smarter to wait. For example, experts note that winter clothing often goes on deeper clearance after the holidays.

Impulse Buys Driven by Hype, Not Need.

Holiday marketing is strong. Without a clear need or plan, you may end up overspending. According to one marketing professor: “You need to know what you want to buy … The time crunch impacts our decision-making process.” So if you find yourself drawn to something simply because it’s “on sale”, ask yourself if you actually need it or if you’re just reacting to urgency.

Waiting Too Long for Must-Have Gifts or Deadlines.

While waiting can pay off for some items, if you procrastinate on something essential (like a key gift or an item that must be delivered by a set date), you risk higher cost, limited selection, or missed shipping deadlines. December’s late rush often brings inflated shipping prices and reduced availability.

Everything “Just Because it’s Discounted”.

A discount doesn’t always mean the best time to buy. Some items are priced lower at different times of year. One headline warns: “Deals aren’t always good. … Some bargains can be found cheaper at other points in the year.” Avoid falling for “door-buster” deals unless they truly meet your need and budget.

Give Away Gift Cards Using Your RGCU Rewards

When was the last time you checked your RGCU Rewards Balance? If you've been using your debit card all year, chances are you've racked up a big amount of points. You can redeem gift-cards using your reward points and give them away as gifts! You can also redeem things like cash back, merchandise (good for gifts, too), and travel. 

The holidays are coming, but that doesn’t mean you need to kiss your budget goodbye. Follow the tips outlined above to save big on gift-shopping this year.