Anyone looking to buy a PS5 or other in-demand present this Christmas is being advised to stay local and avoid buying from UK retailers.
It's the same every year: several popular toys and electronics are nearly impossible to find in shops.
However, a mix of global supply chain issues and the ongoing impact of Brexit has made the gift hunt even hard this year.
The next-gen games consoles - the PS5 and Xbox Series X - are in particularly high demand for the second year in a row.
Retailers often sell out within minutes when they do have fresh stock available, and dedicated social media accounts have been set up solely to offer immediate updates when consoles are actually available.
On Newstalk Breakfast, consumer expert Sinead Ryan said there's no guarantee anyone will be able to get their hands on these or other in-demand gifts in time for Christmas.
She said: “Parents are having this annual struggle trying to get gifts and toys and other gifts - and it’s not being helped by supply chain issues, Brexit and all the other things we’ve been hearing about."
However, Sinead's one main tip for people is to shop local rather than trying to import from the UK.
She said: "Anybody tempted to go further afield - say to the UK - two problems arise.
“First, you may not get gifts in time. Secondly, when they get here… there’s a raft of VAT and customs charges.
“Also, since the UK is now outside the EU, none of your consumer rights apply. If you’re in Ireland and have ordered the PS5 or any other gift… under EU law that must be delivered within 30 days unless you’ve agreed to some other delivery date.
“If it can’t be got in Ireland, don’t be tempted to go elsewhere for it.”
While UK consumer rights are broadly the same as EU laws at the moment, the CCPC says that could change in the future and there's currently no easy way to enforce rights when dealing with a UK business.
Sinead also advised people to bear in mind click and collect is a 'fantastic option' to ensure you get a present on time.
She said: "You have a certain delivery slot, and you know it’s going to be there on time.
“It’s still not December 1st, so people still have plenty of time to go and source items.”
