Christmas catalogs are arriving in the mail, stores are displaying glitzy tableware, and newspaper ads tout seasonal items. Though the holidays are months away, the shopping craze has begun. It's not too early to start thinking about the gifts you would like to give. You may want to do a few push-ups, because holiday shopping takes lots of energy.

Eat a healthy snack before you head out. Tracking down bargains will be a lot easier if you are not hungry. Tuck a granola bar or an apple in your pocket to keep yourself going. Wear comfortable shoes, too, because shopping is a miserable experience when your feet hurt. How can you get the best bargains?

SHOP WHEN THE SEASON CHANGES. Stores in my area are still having summer sales on tank tops, bathing suits, towels, and picnic ware. The stores want to clear out this merchandise as fast as possible to make room for new merchandise. Now is the time to look for real bargains, items that have been reduced three times or more.

BRING NEWSPAPER ADS WITH YOU. Stores hire temporary help during the holidays and these people may be less familiar with the stock. I went shopping for sheets that were on sale, but the sales associate didn't understand my request, so I showed him the ad. "Oh, that's hotel bedding," he said, "and it has a special display." Bringing the ad with you saves valuable time.

ASK SOMEONE TO CHECK THE STOCK. Though the sale rack is empty, the store may still have the item in stock. The sales associate will be glad to check the stock room for you. If the store is a branch of a larger chain, ask the sales associate to call other branch stores to see if they have the item you are seeking.

CHECK THE SALE DATES. Your local newspaper may have an ad that says a sale is starting tomorrow. However, if you have a store charge card you may be able to get the sale price today. Stores want to keep their charge customers happy and keep these customers coming back. Don't be bashful about asking for the sale price early or if something will go on sale soon.

GET DELIVERY DATES. Stores get specific items on specific days. Last Christmas I went to a home store to buy Christmas plants and found empty shelves. The bargain plants were gone. I tracked down the manager and asked him when more plants were expected. He told me to come back the following Tuesday. I returned to the store and bought 10 bargain-priced poinsettias for a luncheon I was giving.

ASK FOR A RAIN CHECK. If a store has advertised sale merchandise and that merchandise is gone, you are entitled to a rain check for the sale price. Stick the rain check on the refrigerator door so you don't lose it. You may have to wait a week or two for the merchandise to come in, but it's worth it.

SURPRISE YOURSELF. While you are shopping you will come across sale items you didn't expect, such as an electric coffee pot for $10. A deal like this is too good to pass up. Besides, during the holidays it's wise to have a few extra gifts on hand. So take advantage of the surprise deals you find. Store these gifts on a special shelf or in a special closet.

GET WRAPPING, TOO. You started out on a shopping expedition and you may as well finish it by buying wrapping paper, tissue paper, gift bags and ribbon at the same time. This way, you can be sure that you have enough wrapping for large gifts.

SAVE ALL RECEIPTS. Store the receipts for your gifts in a large envelope. You may wish to write the recipient's name on the receipt in pencil. Ask about the store's return policy when you are buying gifts and note this policy on the receipts as well.