The best Christmas shopping tips for a COVID-19 world -

It’s important for many people that we embrace the giving nature that comes with the most wonderful time of the year, but 2020 and 2021 specifically taught us how important it is to be responsible consumers. From the environment to the economy, social justice to social isolation, we’ve been learning increasingly to be better to one another. But how can we contribute something positive in these dark times while still staying safe amid the still ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?

It’s easier than you think! Click through this gallery to see the best safety and ethical tips for your holiday shopping this year, as well as some gift ideas that are perfect for lockdowns. Go forth and spread holiday cheer instead of the virus and fear, and feel extra good about giving this year!

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Don't crowd the malls -

The gift of giving is great, but not when it’s a virus! The biggest advice you should follow this season is to avoid crowded malls.

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If you have to go in, avoid touching things -

Have hand sanitizer on you, maintain your distance, and wear a mask. You should also aim to go in non-peak hours!

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Use contactless payment -

Cash and credit cards that are swiped or inserted into a machine are often loaded with germs, and though contact with contaminated surfaces isn't considered a common way COVID-19 spreads by the CDC, reducing physical contact is certainly helpful.

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Shop online -

The best way to stay safe while shopping this year is to do it online. You can avoid the virus and you don’t have to change out of your pajamas either!

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Be smart with deliveries -

If you’re getting a package delivered to your home, try to avoid contact with the delivery person. Right away, get rid of the outer packaging and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Fortunately, packages present a very low risk of transmitting coronavirus, but it's still possible.

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Avoid giant, wealthy companies -

Avoid shopping on websites like Amazon, which have already raked in billions during the pandemic and which have controversy after controversy around treatment of employees.

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Shop local -

Small businesses have been hit hard during the pandemic, which makes it vital that we use our consumer power to support our communities. They’ll also be much less crowded than malls!

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Shop local -

Many shops have also put their products online as a result of the pandemic, so have a browse of your local stores. They’ll probably deliver faster too, and with less of an environmental impact!

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Buy handmade -

We’ve gotten so used to products and clothing with short lifespans because they’re made cheaply in factories, but once you make the switch to products crafted by individuals you'll realize they may be a little more expensive but so much more worth it in the end.

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Buy from people you know -

This is the best feeling because you’re not only going to make someone happy with a gift, but you’re also gifting someone you know with a little sales boost.

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Buy fair trade -

Fair trade products are slightly higher priced because they pay their workers proper living wages instead of abusing their labor.

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Shop vintage on social media -

For a truly unique gift, you can hop on the trend that really took off during the pandemic: vintage shops (oftentimes run by a single person) on platforms like Instagram or Facebook or Depop. You can find rare pieces and also avoid contributing to fast fashion!

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Buy from BIPOC-owned companies -

The years since the pandemic began have especially seen the world wake up to racism and the many social injustices we still struggle with, so what more opportune moment than Christmas to do your part by shopping at BIPOC-owned companies?

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Research sustainable, eco-friendly products -

It’s sad to know that so much of our holiday joy depends on abusing the earth we’re so jolly to live on. Instead of contributing to the problem, ensure the gifts you want to buy are sustainably sourced, from technology to cosmetics!

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Don’t go for the obvious - Instead of going straight to a major chain for makeup, as an example, go to websites like Credo that curate safe and sustainable beauty products from brands dedicated to ethically sourced ingredients.

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Embrace the gift card -

Online shopping is great, but it can also be difficult with so much choice and only getting to see photos. Instead, this is the year to embrace gift cards! Let someone else choose while also still giving your money to a business you feel good about.

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Order in for your Christmas meals -

If you’re not too attached to your traditional Christmas meal, you can help out local eateries by ordering in food. You’ll save yourself a lot of time, and you’ll help keep them afloat!

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Don’t forget about gift wrapping! -

Instead of the traditional and wasteful paper, try wrapping gifts in something reusable that is better for the environment.

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Don’t forget about gift wrapping! -

Some ideas include old newspaper, fabric (can be reused by the recipient!), clay flower pots, old calendar paper, or reusable gift bags.

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Inspired gifts -

By now we’re all aware that this virus is not going to just disappear altogether. Keeping this in mind while shopping for gifts can go a long way. Here are some ideas…

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Comfy loungewear set -

Jeans and dressy clothes have been scarce this year, and most people are wearing the same comfy sweats again and again. But you can still feel stylish while comfortable, and a loungewear set is perfect for just that.

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DIY home spa treatments -

Bubble bath, face masks, aromatherapy oils, epsom salts—everyone needs more of these at home.

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Meal delivery subscription -

You can gift someone a subscription to a food service that will send them a box of snacks, treats, or ready-made meals once a week or per month. There are tons of variations to choose from, and it truly is the gift that keeps on giving!

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Home workout supplies -

Yoga mats, booty bands, ankle weights, etc. These are essential to staying fit in these times when gyms are closed.

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Streaming service subscription -

With very affordable prices, you can provide someone with a year’s worth of entertainment from home.

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Books -

Entertainment is key these days. Get someone a gift card or order them some great books from an independent bookstore to help keep those small shops alive.

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Portable projector -

Small but mighty, these are a great gift for those who miss being able to go see movies in theaters.

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Kitchen appliances/gadgets -

The pandemic has forced a lot of people to get reacquainted with their kitchen. A blender or an air fryer, for example, are fantastic gifts for people who miss going to their favorite eateries.

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Cocktail kits -

We’re all going to need a very stiff drink to get through coronavirus Christmastime...

See also: Traditional Christmas drinks from around the world

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