Jammed parking lots, crowded malls, picked over merchandise – the traditions of Christmas shopping  aren’t always fun.  Santa may still have to use reindeer to deliver his presents but for the rest of us, there is now the Internet.  Going online to aaa.com can save gas money, avoid the hassles of the shopping herd and allow you to buy terrific gifts with significant AAA member discounts. For example, Hickory Farms provides 15% off on holiday snacks such as specialty meats, cheeses, candies, bakery goods and more. Search for the “Home for the Holidays” package that includes summer sausage and sweet preserves that is regularly priced at $42.90 but is only $36.54 to AAA members.

Maybe you’re stumped trying to find the perfect stocking stuffers. Barnes &  Noble.com offers a 5% discount for DVD’s, books, videos and other goodies purchased online at aaa.com/barnesand noble.

And another AAA “virtual” store is Target.com, which offers a 10% discount to AAA members on apparel, housewares, furniture and even a digital camera for $135 (savings $14.99) that can record you feeling relaxed and rested opening gifts that were delivered to your doorstep. You can share your photos –and your new shopping secrets – with friends and relatives.