TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — With Christmas just a few days away, stores are bustling as last-minute shoppers scramble to check off their lists.
It’s crunch time for holiday shoppers, and stores like Target are seeing packed parking lots and long lines at the registers.
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According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 30% of Americans wait until the last minute to finish their shopping.
“We shop all along, but we like last minute shopping, so we can get the last-minute deals,” shoppers at Target said.
“I buy last minute every year; I can’t help it. I am looking for some Legos sets for my nephews, that is all. I have done most of it already,” said shopper Isabella Huth.
Popular items like toys, electronics, and holiday decor are flying off the shelves, leaving many scrambling to find what they need.
And while some are in search of specific gifts, others admit they’re simply grabbing whatever they can find to cross those final names off their lists.
“Some makeup and a Nintendo switch controller,” shopper Katrina Villanova who was with her family said.
If you’re still planning to shop, experts recommend going early to avoid the crowds — and don’t forget to check store hours, as many will close early on Christmas Eve.