The crowds and craziness of holiday shopping can be tough for any parents when they’re by themselves, but bringing along the little ones can boost the stress factor for everyone. Experienced moms know that some good planning and a few simple tricks can make the outing go much smoother. Try some of these tips when you head out with your kids this season, to help you get your holiday shopping done as quickly as possible while staying on budget:

Time it right. Like anything else, dragging your kids out when they’re tired and/or hungry is just asking for trouble. If possible, try aiming for off-peak shopping hours, like 9-11 am or 1-4 pm, to avoid the biggest crowds.

Map it out. If you know you’ll be making several stops, try drawing a “map” with pictures of the places you will be visiting. Your little will have fun crossing them off as you go, and it should help cut down on the number of times someone asks “how many more stops do we have?”

Stock supplies. Most moms like to bring along water and nutritious snacks like cereal, raisins or crackers to keep their little ones from getting too crabby. A favorite book or toy will help keep them busy, and bringing a blankie just may buy you a nap in the stroller if you’re lucky.

Be ready to redirect. Similarly, many moms find it’s worth it to bring along a new toy or treat to pull out when their kids are begging for something they see on the shelf. Being prepared with a small item could save you from buying something more expensive, or dealing with the tantrum that may come when you say no.

Know when to say when. Sometimes there’s just nothing you can do to avoid a holiday meltdown. If your baby or toddler has gone over the edge and simply can’t be consoled, it’s a good idea to call it a day. Head for home and think about trying again another time.