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Unless you have a magic sleigh, don't leave it until Christmas Eve...

Royal Mail sent a record 500m parcels last Christmas, and though we may not be in lockdown, chances are there are one or two loved ones who aren't within your reach. What better way to spread some festive cheer than by sending a gift?

The sooner you buy, wrap and send your gifts, the sooner you can put your feet up with a mug of mulled wine and a mince pie. Reduce your stress now by getting your presents sent out in time for the big day.

For cards and small parcels...

GHI Tip: The Post Office and stationery stores, such as WH Smith, Paperchase and Ryman, aren't the only places you can buy stamps. You can add stamps to your online supermarket shop, or print stamps at home. Use the Royal Mail's Click and Drop service to do this and post items in any mailbox. Just make sure your get the scales out to check the weight of the item you're sending first.