As holiday shopping gets into full swing, officials are encouraging to keep both budget and safety in consideration while prepping for the holidays.

Service NL provided a number of helpful tips to prevent unwelcome surprises this year.

Before buying, it’s recommended to check the vendor’s refund, exchange, or restocking policies so you’re not caught off guard by surprise fees.

While it’s encouraged to shop local, if you turn to the web to finish your list, Service NL says convenience should not outweigh consumer safety.

Be sure the site is legitimate and security-enabled. Use safe payment options, and avoid shopping online if connected to public WiFi.

While generosity is in the air, the department also encourages people to look into charities before donating, to be sure your money is going towards a reputable organization and not a scammer.