Thieves, pick-pockets, and budol-budols are not the only enemies we have to watch out for as we go shopping this year. It’s a deadly group that can’t be seen, heard, and touch, and they’re everywhere—it’s COVID-19, and beware.

Holiday shopping has been one of the favorite activities of many Filipinos--from decors to food and gifts, and the overwhelming excitement resides to each and every one of us, admit it!

Read: Shopping is now easier and safer with SM Malls Online App

With regard to shopping experience this pandemic, health protocols are still strictly implemented. Mobilization is limited—you can’t just simply go out unless you want to catch the virus, But, for many who find shopping therapeutic, there’s no way in the world can’t stop in fulfilling their satisfactions.

(Read: Mga Dapat Sundin Tungo sa Ligtas na Pamimili)

For holiday shoppers who are ditching online shopping applications to feel the real deal this pandemic, here are some safety tips you all should follow for a safe shopping experience.

USE CASHLESS PAYMENTS

Another way to protect yourself when shopping this holiday season for gifts in stores is to pay contactless through applications or credit cards. This allows you to avoid physical contact with cashiers or payment terminals that go through hundreds of transactions per day.

From the previous findings, contact with contaminated surfaces isn't considered a common way COVID-19 spreads. Regardless, reducing physical contact can cut your overall risk.

Read: Travel tips for your grocery shopping

AVOID TOUCHING SHOPPING DISPLAYS

We all do love window shopping and touching anything whenever inside malls--we check the product’s features or the price.

Studies show that the virus stayed on surfaces for hours, and this is not a simple thing to ignore, you have to stop touching any shopping displays and products to avoid possible COVID-19 infection if you’re gonna have your shopping spree sesh.

SANITIZE YOUR PURCHASES

Sanitizing groceries and shopping bags is one good way to prevent bringing the virus inside our homes. It’s a precaution that most people practice nowadays.

After unpacking all your purchases, don’t forget to wash your hands using soap and water and drying with a clean towel as really the best defense for protecting yourself from this virus and many other infectious diseases that might be on a surface or package.

FOLLOW GENERAL HEALTH PROTOCOLS

The most important tip that all must know is to follow all the general health protocols implemented by the government such as wearing face masks and face shields, physical distancing, and proper sanitation.

Limit your contact with people and crowded areas and be alert at all times.

Yup, be safe than sorry peeps. Go on and scratch your shopping itch and always remember. You have to be extra careful if you really want to go on holiday shopping this year.

Have a safe holiday shopping!