Column: "Cheap and Lazy" Shopping

I'm cheap and lazy when it comes to buying gifts. I hope you are, too.

Okay, maybe “cheap” is too strong a word. “Frugal,” perhaps. But I like to save money, and I look for useful gifts that people will appreciate. I hate wasting money on stuff people don't need or want.

And maybe instead of “lazy” I should promote myself as “efficient.” If I can save time shopping, I'm all for it.

Whatever you call it, it's a green way to shop. So here are my recommendations for the “frugal and efficient” (aka “cheap and lazy”) shopper:

1. Give gift certificates to your favorite local shops, restaurants and businesses. These are always appreciated if you choose interesting ones. You've never wasted your money—at the very least you've supported a place you want to keep in business!

2. Browse online and call ahead. In an afternoon, you can visit dozens of stores online without spending a dime on gas. If you come across a small, locally-owned store that looks interesting, give them a call. They can often recommend the perfect gift or refer you to another store that carries what you're looking for.

3. “Wrap” your gifts in reusable bags. Everyone likes to unwrap gifts, but who likes to get stuck with a bunch of garbage? Reusable gift wrap bags are easier and greener than wrapping paper. Drop in a short note with your present, pull the drawstring closed, and you're done!

4. Choose carefully. Pick just one gift per person, but make it special. If you can't find the perfect gift in a store, send something you can't buy: a note and a promise to spend time with the person you love. Or, if you do find the perfect gift but can't afford it, go in with others to share the cost.

5. Shop all year long. Keep an eye out for things you would want to give, and jot them down. A short shopping excursion on a lazy summer afternoon is a lot more fun than a holiday shopping marathon among the mob at the mall. Give yourself time to think; you'll find better deals and more meaningful gifts.

If you put a little thought into it, being “cheap and lazy” is a great way to avoid mindless consumerism and give green gifts people will really appreciate.