Watch CBS News

Savvy Shoppers Set Their Sights On Holiday Gifts Before The Last Warm Rays Of Summer Fade

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- While some people were taking in the last warm rays of summer, others were getting a jump on their holiday shopping.

According to craditcards.com, 1 in 7 have already begun buying for the holiday season, and even more startling, 4.6-million people have finished, that's about 2 percent of American shoppers.

Steve Pasierb with the Toy Industry Association told CBS2's Emily Smith that it's all about Star Wars this season.

"The movie is coming out in December and the toys are going crazy," he said.

Play All Day Elmo is another big item, the high-tech toy comes with 150 responses and 8 games.

You can also expect kids to ask for anything LEGO, and remote control cars that operate via cell phone.

The robotic enhanced vehicles are controlled by an app and cost $100 for two.

To pay for this year's presents something that's been around since the 1800s is making a big comeback, the lay away plan.

"Take SEARS, they had done away, all the big box stores, K-Mart, Walmart, Best Buy, they all use lay away now," Better Qualified CEO, Paul Oster said.

Oster, a business and consumer credit expert said it's a smart way to shop, not just to avoid interest rates, but also to get your hands on the 'it toys' that often disappear closer to the holidays.

"Now you can use law away online and you can secure a gift months in advance, and lock in the price," he said.

Of course, you don't have to shop if you aren't ready yet. There are still 83 days until Hanukkah and 101 days until Christmas.

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.