Did you know you can turn an Amazon shipping bag inside out and pull a strip to reseal it for returns? This little hack comes in handy when a holiday gift arrives and doesn’t match the online description. Let’s explore some tech-savvy strategies to ease the holiday hustle.

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As the holiday season approaches, managing the chaos can be overwhelming. Here are twelve clever tips and tricks to help you navigate this busy time of year more smoothly.

Shopping Hacks for a Stress-Free Experience

Stay Updated with Package Tracking
Gmail has introduced an excellent feature for tracking your holiday packages. To enable real-time updates, simply open the Gmail app, tap on the Menu, select Settings, then General settings (for Android) or Data privacy (for Apple), and toggle on Package Tracking. Now you’ll always know where your gifts are.

Disguise Your Online Shopping
If you’re shopping online and a family member unexpectedly walks in, don’t panic! Quickly hide your browser windows: on a PC, press Windows key + M, and on a Mac, use Cmd + Option + H + M. This way, you can keep the surprise intact.

Unlock Amazon’s Secret Discounts
Take advantage of Amazon’s Trade-in Program by sending in your old tech for a gift card. You can trade in almost anything, even non-working devices. Plus, if you send in specific Amazon products like a Kindle or Fire TV Stick, you can receive a 20% discount on your next purchase.

Verify Handmade Gifts on Etsy
When shopping on Etsy, ensure you’re purchasing genuine handmade items. Conduct a reverse image search by dragging the item’s image into Google Images. If you find the same item listed on different sites, it may be a mass-produced product.

At Home: Tech Tips for Family Gatherings

Capture Perfect Holiday Memories
Blurry photos can ruin cherished moments. To ensure your pictures are clear, simply tap the screen where you want to focus. This quick adjustment can save your family photos from disappointment.

Create a Family Playlist
Avoid music disputes this holiday season by collaborating on a family playlist. On Spotify, go to Your Library, select the playlist, tap the three dots in the top right, and choose Share. For Apple Music, navigate to Library > Playlists, tap the three dots, and select Share Playlist. Everyone can enjoy their favorite tunes without bickering!

Keep Your Kindle Private
If family members are visiting and you want to keep your reading preferences private, set a passcode on your Kindle. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner, go to Settings > Device Options > Device Passcode, and create a code up to 12 digits long.

On the Road: Travel Tips for Smooth Journeys

Airport Travel Made Easier with Uber
Planning to fly? Uber has rolled out three new features to enhance your airport experience. UberXXL allows you to request larger vehicles with extra trunk space, UberX Share lets you share rides and save 25%, and Uber Reserve ensures a car is waiting for you upon arrival.

Protect Your Personal Data
If you’ve synced your phone to a rental car, remember to wipe your data before returning it. Access the car’s infotainment system, navigate to Settings, and look for a factory reset option. If you can’t find it, consult the manual or ask the rental company for assistance.

Optimize Your Travel Times
To avoid arguments about travel plans, use Apple Maps or Google Maps to determine the best times to leave for Grandma’s house. In Apple Maps, hit the Now button to open a calendar, while in Google Maps, tap the three dots in the top right and select Leave/Depart at or Arrive by.

Track Your Luggage Easily
Keep track of your luggage by using your airline’s app. Find the Track my bags option in the app’s menu, enter your reservation or tag number, and receive updates on your luggage’s status. Alternatively, consider using a luggage tracker like Apple’s AirTags or Tile, which are compatible with most smartphones.

Enhance Your Tech Savvy During the Holidays
Navigate the digital landscape effortlessly this holiday season with tips from award-winning host Kim Komando, your go-to resource for tech insights.

Enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable holiday season with these tech tips that ensure you spend less time worrying and more time celebrating!