If you spend the run-up to Christmas running around trying to get everything organised for the big day. According to one survey, over half of British adults admitted having to dash to the garage on Christmas Day to grab a last-minute essential. But no more, with our handy Christmas to-do list!
From extra spuds for your Christmas dinner to wrapping what feels like 1001 presents, there's a whole list of jobs that need to be done before the 25th. But with our Christmas checklist in your hand you can tackle the festive season like a pro – without suffering from yuletide burnout!
Shop Christmas decorations
Christmas to-do list
To buy...
1. Batteries. It's a classic oversight for a reason!
2. Extra wrapping paper and sellotape for any last-minute gifts
3. Tinfoil for cooking your turkey and covering up all those inevitable leftovers
4. Napkins and crackers for the Christmas table
5. Sauces! Cranberry, apple, bread, mint... whatever your preference. And of course, gravy!
6. Matches, for lighting Christmas candles
7. Extra loo roll
8. Board games or cards for old-fashioned entertainment
To do...
1. Book an online food shop early if you want one - slots fill up fast in the run-up to Christmas.
2. If you're hosting, plan a Christmas clean to get your home in tip-top shape for visitors.
3. Assemble any new furniture that needs putting together, like a spare bed, sofa bed, or dining table. If you're not confident in your DIY capabilities or you're just short on time, consider using a service like TaskRabbit, which lets you book an experienced pair of hands to get your furniture up and ready in no time.
4. Post your Christmas cards (better late than never) or any presents that need to be sent via post. The recent postal strikes have impacted deliveries, but you should still be able to get your letter or parcel there for Christmas if you send before 21 December using the Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed service.
5. Check that you know about any dietary requirements for visitors. Are you expecting any vegan, veggie, gluten or dairy-free guests? Are there any allergies?
6. Stock up your drinks cupboard or bar cart with your guests' favourite tipples and maybe something special, like a Christmas gin.
7. Pack your Christmas presents if you'll be spending the day away from home with family or friends.
8. Fill up your ice cube trays.
9. Get a head start on your dinner prep. Stuffing, sauces and gravy can all be made in advance, then frozen. You can even freeze parboiled potatoes!
10. Make sure the oven is on and set to the right temperature when you put the turkey in - sounds silly, but this is easy to forget if you're up at the crack of dawn!
