Recession affecting holiday shopping?

FORT WAYNE, Ind., (WANE) -- - The gloomy news of Wall Street tumbles and billion dollar bailouts doesn't seem to be translating into fewer shoppers.

"Parking lots seem to be just as full, people seem to be just as busy shopping," remarks shopper Laura Lin.

"I think the mall is definitely packed, so I don't know, people are shopping!" agrees fellow shopper April Rapp.

Newschannel 15 set out to find how, if at all, the economy will affect shoppers' holiday plans.

We found many are shopping early, or for fewer people.

"We're cutting back on who we're buying for even for just in the family, just trading some names instead of buying for everybody," says Lori Burns.

Packed parking lots and busy aisles make it apparent people are still shopping, though it seems they're keeping a closer eye out for the best bargain.

"This year, I'm getting it done early and getting it out of the way and hopefully catching some good deals along the way," says early bird shopper Rachel Oberlin.

And for some people, that means clipping their way to extra savings.

"I'm here shopping with a bunch of coupons because my husband's trying to have us stick within a budget, or have me stick within a budget," laughs Target shopper Melinda Perrry.

But, there is some good news for holiday shoppers: falling gas prices are leaving many with extra cash.
And figuring out how to spend it doesn't seem to be a problem

"Our weekend business, we had alot of traffic through here. People are definitely being careful about what they want to buy and I think they're making well informed decisions first," says Target Store Manager Matt Bouman.

As far as holiday shopping predictions go, the National Retail Federation says this could shape up to be the worst shopping season in the past six years.