Last Minute Holiday Shopping

Shoppers are almost down to the wire to finish holiday shopping. If that perfect gift has eluded you, there are still plenty of last-minute gifts available. Kelli Grant, Senior Consumer Reporter for SmartMoney.com has suggestions to help you find the perfect last minute gift.

Retailers are extending free shipping deals for a few days this week. Don't assume based on how fast past orders arrived when your package will land on your doorstep. Check the site guarantee and estimated delivery date. With more people buying online, many stores are slower at processing orders.

Some of the biggest last-minute sales are on apparel - especially boots, coats and sweaters, which didn't sell well during our warmer-than-usual fall. Retailers started discounting early and have to continue, even though it got cold fast around Thanksgiving.

Even after the stores are closed on Christmas Eve, you still have online options. One option to consider is ordering a membership online. If the recipient likes the zoo, a particular museum or even a nearby theater troupe, pay up for an annual membership online. They'll get unlimited access or season tickets. It's great year-end planning for you, too -- because such groups and attractions are nonprofits, the price is at least partly deductible.

Consider getting tickets to see a favorite musician or sports team, or an interesting play or musical. FanSnap.com compares prices on available seats from a range of ticket sites, to help you find the best deal.

Gift cards are still a convenient option. Advances have made it possible to send a virtual certificate to the recipient's email, print one from your home computer or even - at stores like Steve Madden or American Eagle Outfitters - send one via text to the recipient's cellphone. Check the processing time before you buy. It can still take hours for such virtual delivery.

For more last minute holiday shopping tips and other consumer tips click here.

Kelli Grant & Erika Wortham