The month of December can be an incredibly busy time in the lead up to Christmas.

It’s often a time full of events, Christmas parties, catch-ups before the New Year, buying presents for loved ones, cooking and more. As a result, it’s often hard to find the time to get organised and do everything you need to do.

Whether it’s traditional, modern, a BBQ, picnic or a buffet you have on Christmas, be sure to get organised early to save last minute mayhem.

Write yourself a Christmas checklist and make sure it’s all ticked off before December 25.

Here are some things to write on your checklist to help you get organised this year:

1. Have your Christmas cards ready to send out early
2. Decorate your tree at the start of December
3. Order your ham, turkey and seafood well in advance
4. Consider doing a Kris Kringle or Secret Santa so you don’t have to buy numerous gifts
5. Write a gift list and determine your budget
6. Consider online shopping for certain presents
7. Purchase non-perishable food items a few weeks before Christmas
8. Set the table a few days before Christmas
9. Take stock of your pantry and baking staples to ensure you don’t run out
10. Buy batteries in advance for children’s toys
11. Wrap gifts as you buy them
12. Prepare the food you can freeze a week before
13. Delegate some of the cooking to your family and get the kids involved
14. Buy a few spare gifts (wine, candle or shortbread) in case someone pops in with an unexpected gift for you
15. Make sure your bar is well-stocked prior to the big day
16. Make a party calendar for the month of December to ensure you don’t run out of time to get organised
17. If you’re going on holidays soon after Christmas start packing early