One in four people have already started Christmas shopping

One in four people have already started their Christmas shopping – because they are worried about certain items selling out. 

With today (16th September) marking 100 Days to Christmas, a poll of 2,000 adults found 50% have struggled to get hold of in-demand presents in years gone by – and 30% have missed out completely.

As a result, 36% are feeling exhausted thinking about what they need to buy and an additional 38% feel anxious about bagging the item they want. However, of these early starters, 36% have already bought the main present for an adult.

The items shoppers are most worried about selling out include decorations (36%), the latest tech products (32%), children’s advent calendars (29%) and Christmas’ must have toys (29%).

The research was commissioned by cashback and rewards firm 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.”

“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.”

As well as avoiding sell-outs, many are starting the season early to spread the cost (52%). Others want better bargains by starting their shopping as soon as possible (45%) or quite simply because they love Christmas (26%).

Savvy approaches to festive shopping also includes maximising loyalty points built up over the year (25%). While 15% are using the money earned from cashback websites – of these 43% save their cashback specifically to put towards Christmas.

With another 40% buying items as early as possible so the money earned is in their account by December.

The research, which was conducted via OnePoll.com, also found that the average Christmas budget is set to be £626 this year.

Stedman added: “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.”