Predicted Top 5 Retailers for the Best Holiday Shopping in 2024

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It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are right around the corner — which means it’s almost time to buy gifts. You might be looking at the people you need to shop for and wondering what in the world you’re going to get them — not to mention how to fit all those gifts into your budget. You can start by hitting up some of the top places people go to when buying gifts for the holidays to generate some ideas.

PissedConsumer released a study about holiday shopping habits that listed the top retailers consumers plan to use for their holiday shopping. Hopefully, you can get some inspiration for ideal gifts from this list of stores.

Next, take a look at some pro tips on how to budget for the holidays.

Amazon

It’s probably not surprising that Amazon is at the top of the list, as 25% of Americans shop on the site at least once a week, according to Yaguara.co. Many shoppers also use Amazon for product research to get an idea of price and to find out if other customers are satisfied with items.

It doesn’t hurt that Amazon Prime members get faster shipping and more deals, making it an even more appealing option. Prime’s latest Big Deal Day offered such finds as 32% off Apple AirPods Pro 2 and 32% off Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen). For the best holiday prices, become a Prime member and check the site frequently for any big sales.

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Walmart

Walmart is the biggest retailer in the world, according to Business Insider. Consumers reportedly like shopping at the store for its Everyday Low Prices philosophy, which promises deals anytime consumers walk into the store.

Similar to Amazon, Walmart also offers a paid loyalty program called Walmart Plus. With a Walmart Plus subscription, shoppers can get free shipping with no order minimum, early access to deals, easy returns, unlimited grocery delivery, fuel discounts and more.

Temu

Online shoppers have really gravitated toward Temu, an online marketplace developed by the Chinese company PDD Holdings. In July 2023, Temu reportedly had over 130 million downloads in the space of less than a year, so that number is most likely much higher now.

People flock to Temu for the low prices, which are possible due to the site being able to sell items directly from Chinese manufacturers. The site will often advertise 90% off sales, an in-app deal that definitely helps get shoppers to click buy.

Target

Target has 2,000 stores in the United States and has perfected the ideal shopping experience. Just browsing the aisles of Target can feel like a treat for some shoppers, so it’s no wonder many are planning to go there for holiday shopping.

The Target Effect, more scientifically known as the Gruen Effect, is where consumers become so overwhelmed with different sights, smells and sounds that they forget what they originally came to the store for and overspend. This might be something you want to keep an eye out for next time you’re in a Target — or maybe just be free and let yourself feel all the effects this holiday season, if your budget allows. 

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Costco

If you’re already a Costco member, you know the deals are real. Costco shoppers appreciate the consistently low prices on bulk items, the huge variety that the warehouse offers and, of course, the free samples. After a long day of holiday shopping, you can treat yourself to some food for under $2 at the famous Costco food court.

Interested in discovering the magic of Costco for yourself? A Gold Star membership will cost you $65 a year, while an Executive membership will be $130 a year.

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