Last minute Christmas shopping: 5 survival strategies

If you've left your Christmas shopping to the very last minute, it can be overwhelming, but there's no need to panic, sweat or become anxious at least not yet.

First of all, it's nice to take comfort in knowing thatyou aren't alone. A recent Angust Reid Forum survey estimated that 45 per cent of Canadians buy their gifts at the last minute.

Secondly, many shopkeepers are expecting your arrival and have planned for your lack of planning, so to speak.

"Wenormally tend to close at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve, but we don't get out of the store until 6:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.because there are always those last minute people who come in to the door with a panic-stricken look on their face and you can't help but let them in," saidJoannaMileos, owner of TheGranvilleIsland Toy Company.

Survival guide for procrastinators

Here are some strategies from retailers tohelp you survive the crowded malls andavoid the busy parking lots and long line-ups.

1. Pick the best time to shop

The stores know you are out there,so most have extended evening hours.

While there is no way to find the store completelyempty, early morning orlater in the evening will be the best time to shop says Mileos.

2. Plan your transportation

Pick out malls that have easy access to public transit, because the last thing you want is traffic eating into your shopping time.

Metropolis at Metrotown, Pacific Centre or McArthurGlen,the new designer outlet mallat the Vancouver International Airport are all accessible on Skytrain or Canada Line.

3. Park strategically

If you have no choice but to drive, don't bother trying to find a good parking spot. The second you see a spot, snatch it, says Peggy Howard, the General Manager for Guildford Town Centre.

Park Royal Shopping Centre and Metropolis at Metrotown have brought in outside help to direct traffic.

"They're just helping with the flow of traffic and ensuring people are moving around the property as best and as efficiently as possible," said Christina Piers with Park Royal Shopping Centre.

4. Get crafty and original

Christmas craft fairs are mostly done by now, but if you are still on the hunt for artisanal chocolates or wooden furniture head tothe craft fair at the White Rock Museum and Archives. Their last day is December 22.

"It's nice quality, good value, it's beautiful in there, there is so much selection. There is something for everybody," saidAnnabelle Low, a volunteer at the museum.

5. You are never too late

If you are really in a bind, there is always the ATM. But let's not forget Christmas isn't really about the presents but spending time with the ones you love.

"Christmas to me is more about being with the family and spending some quality time with the family instead of worrying about the gift," said Mileos.