If you are not prepared and strapped for cash, holiday shopping may leave you feeling stressed and unable to enjoy the season – but it doesn’t have to.

Keep these tips in mind when you begin your journey through the overbearing displays and aggressive salespeople. Starting early will save you money and time, all while avoiding the stress.

1. Pick a day to schedule your shopping trip. Map out the day with the certain stores you need to go to. Bring a friend or two to offer opinions and gift ideas – they’ll be handy during those indecisive moments.

2. Have a list developed for your immediate family and closest friends. You can’t always count on browsing.

3. If you have a question about an item, don’t hesitate to ask a salesperson. Take advantage of his or her knowledge and let him or her guide you.

4. Develop a budget and stick to it. Set a spending limit for each gift. Be thrifty with your spending prior to the holiday season, and save the extra money in a safe place where it isn’t easily accessible. According to a survey sponsored by the National Retail Federation, The Boston Globe reported the average shopper this year would spend approximately $791.10.

5. If you are an Internet junkie and wish to remain in your cozy computer chair, remember to shop online early. Some companies offer free shipping and handling during the holiday season. However, ordering too late could rack up overnight charges.

6. If you’re not a fan of crowded malls and watching angry mothers fight over the Tickle Me Elmo, try shopping first thing in the morning or during the evening hours. Most stores have extended holiday hours to meet customers’ needs. Also avoid shopping centers during the weekends – go during the week instead.

7. Remember to shop around and compare prices. Visit Shopzilla.com for price comparisons of products in more than 80,000 stores. Consumer reviews are also available for many of the products.

Don’t get too caught up in the holiday chaos. Consider these guidelines and you’ll be sure to minimize your holiday stress. The holidays are a merry time of year – enjoy them!