8 on Your Side: Last-Minute Holiday Tips - 8 News NOW

8 on Your Side: Last-Minute Holiday Tips

LAS VEGAS - This weekend is going to be busy at malls, stores and supermarkets as procrastinators try to get their shopping done before Christmas. 8 on Your Side offers tips on making this weekend's shopping frenzy a problem-free one.

First, when cashiers ask for cash or credit, hand over the plastic. Credit cards can offer a lot of protection cash can't when buying a gift for someone.

Protections include free insurance, price protections, and ways around no-return policies. American Express and Capital One, for example, offer these types of deals. Talk with your bank about how you can take advantage. Often, you have to register the purchase.

When it comes to returns, always get a gift receipt in case your recipient wants to do an exchange. Additionally, always check if the item you bought is returnable. A lot of sale and clearance items are considered final sale.

If you're hosting a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dinner, there are some smart phone apps that can help you with food preparation.

If you're cooking a lot of different recipes, consider the Five-in-One Kitchen Timer app.

You can also impress your guests with festive cocktails by checking out the app 8500+ Drink and Cocktail Recipes.

One final tip, tomorrow is supposed to be the busiest shopping day of the season. That means the malls will be crowded, and the parking lots will be a mess.

Don't forget to pack your patience before you leave the house.