MyVoucherCodes money-saving expert, Sarah-Jane Outten, explains how she saves money by wrapping up her Christmas shopping early.

Overspending is easy at Christmas, but there are ways to avoid it and shopping early is one of those ways. Take a look at my helpful tips that will save you a few pounds this Christmas.

• Black Friday falls on the 29th of November this year, closely followed by Cyber Monday on the 2nd of December. It’s the perfect time to chip away at the kid’s Christmas It feels like Black Friday all month but retailers will be slashing prices on the 29th. Grab some bargains! However, Black Friday isn’t always the best price, check with price comparison sites like CamelCamelCamel, Price Runner, Rakuten and Google Shopping.

• Toys sales are on the Even though lots of kids have gone digital, toys are always popular. If your little one is asking Santa to bring a toy that’s a big hit this year, get in early! The most popular toys of the year often sell fast, don’t bust a gut trying to find it on Christmas Eve! Retailers want to boost profits as early as possible, so the best deals are available now.

• Buyer’s regret is Nothing is worse than leaving Christmas shopping to the last minute only to realise the gift you need is sold out or won’t be delivered in time. And the chances are the closer you get to Christmas the higher the price.

• Avoid expensive delivery charges. Leaving purchases last minute means spending extra on delivery. If you aren’t in a hurry you can afford to choose the cheaper and free delivery options. Make sure those pressies arrive before Santa!

• Festive foodies need to shop early this year. The supermarkets are laden with Christmas treats and booze right now, at special prices. From Baileys on Clubcard prices to discounted selection boxes and stocking As Christmas approaches, some of these offers get removed, and deals aren’t usually as good. Stock up in advance, but make sure you hide the goodies, even if that’s just from yourself!

• Ask for a gift receipt. Just because you are getting ahead of time, it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to return Ask the retailer for a gift receipt and you should be good to return your goods after Christmas.

• Use a discount code. There are excellent discount codes available right now. Don’t assume the best discount codes will available closer to MyVoucherCodes is seeing excellent discount codes from top retailers such as GHD, Boots, Goldsmiths, and Adidas that are available right now.

And finally, it’s not just money that’s worth saving – it’s your sanity too! As we roll into December the shops will become incredibly busy. Avoid the long queues and the hot and sweaty fights over the last tin of festive biscuits. There’s no need to scramble for the last parking spot, stand on the bus or risk a rail replacement service. You can have everything wrapped up by the start of December and all you need to do is enjoy a mulled wine with your favourite Christmas movie.