Holiday shoppers still searching for last minute gifts on a budget [Video]

The final stretch of the holidays is here as malls were packed Saturday with last minute shoppers checking off their lists.

• Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Many flocking to Tanger Outlets in Ottawa, a haven for savvy shoppers looking to save big.

“We’ve scaled back on Christmas and my son wanted a particular hoodie and this is where I came to get it so I’m happy,” said shopper Angele Duval.

According to one retail expert, some of the themes this year include thrifting gifts and using apps like Temu to hunt for deals.

“Inflation is finally down but you know it’s up in a few categories,” said retail analyst, Bruce Winder. “There are a lot of headwinds against consumers right now so they’re really waiting for deals.”

“A lot of retailers have started their Boxing Day clearance already. They know …