The holidays are inching closer and you’re trying to make sure everything gets done. We have the ultimate holiday to-do list to help keep you on track and save you some money while you’re marking things off your list.3 weeks before Buy your real Christmas tree: The prices slashed the closer we get to the big day, but if you want to enjoy it for longer than a few days, it’s time to get your tree now. With proper care, real trees can last up to six weeks so now is the perfect time to purchase.While shopping, look for trees that are stored in a shady place. Run a few branches through your hands. The needles should feel pliable and not fall off. Then, raise the tree and drop the trunk on the ground. It’s okay if the tree loses brown needs, but very few green needles should fall off the tree.While caring for your tree, check the water level in your stand daily. The water should always cover the bottom two inches of the trunk. Experts also say, your stand should have a water reservoir that can hold one quart of water for every inch of the trunk's diameter.Remember to keep your tree away from heat sources like heaters and fireplaces.Buy your artificial Christmas tree: Prices will continue to go down as we go through the season, but the first, small set of discounts has started. As you look for a tree, you’ll notice prices vary in size, the amount of lights included, and the tip count. Branch tip count is the number that tells you how many needles there are. The higher the tip count, the fuller the tree looks. If you can hold off, buy a cheap one now and wait until after Christmas to get one a deep discount. Some retailers mark them down up to 70%.Holiday cards: As we get closer to Christmas, we get busier and busier. So now is the time to get most of your cards addressed and in the mail.Food orders: Many places let you order turkey or ham for your holiday meal. Now is the time to place that order to ensure you get yours on time.2 weeks beforePackages: If you’re sending packages to people in other states, here are the deadlines to make sure they get them by Christmas. FedEx: You can choose 5-day Ground Shipping, which will most likely be the cheapest option. You have to get it in the mail by Friday, Dec. 15.USPS: The recommended shipping deadline that will most likely be the cheapest option is for 5-day Ground Shipping. That deadline is Saturday, Dec. 16.UPS: The website suggests getting an estimate online but there is a 3-day Select option that has a Tuesday, Dec. 19 deadline.Non-perishables: Making a couple of trips to the grocery store will be helpful to make sure you get everything you want and need. Right now, take a trip and shop for non-perishable items like alcohol and pasta.Cleaning: Go ahead and do a deep clean of your house (especially if you’re having people over). Who wants to do that the day before your holiday when you should be relaxing?Refrigerator: Part of that deep cleaning should be clearing out your refrigerator. Toss old leftovers and expired stuff to make room for all of the holiday food.Finish holiday cards: We’re trying to enjoy our holidays. So get the rest of your cards out.Last-minute gifts: There will be someone who gives you a gift that you weren’t expecting. So have a couple of non-descript gifts at the ready. Things like candles, coffee mugs, candy, etc.1 week beforeBatteries: Make sure to get batteries for those toys that are under the tree for your kids.Grocery shopping: About three or four days before, hit the store for the last-minute fruits, vegetables and perishable foods you need.Cleaning: Now that you’ve done the deep cleaning, go through and do a quick clean of your house. Like sweeping and dusting.Set up: If you’ve got the space, set aside the dishes you’re going to use aside. You can use post-it notes to designate which food will be going in each dish to help you plan.Gift shoppingWhen it comes to shopping for gifts, you probably know what your timeline is. Some of us like to shop right up until the last moment while some might already be done. Just remember, shipping times will get more delayed as the month goes on. Try to get most of your holiday shopping out of the way at least a week before. Tip: Wrap presents as you go. That way you’re not up all night wrapping loads of presents in a hurry.