The best apps for your holiday gift exchange

What's that, you say? You still haven't started your holiday shopping? Don't beat yourself up over it -- a lot of people have been putting it off, too. It's become easier and easier to procrastinate gift shopping thanks to a number of apps that make the process as fast and easy as possible. Here are a few that could change your approach to the holiday season for good. 

Elfster's one of the few Secret Santa apps on the App Store that still gets regular updates, which is a lucky thing because it's a great, well-designed service. This app is our top pick, and a great all-in-one shop for all things presents. You can start a gift exchange, putting peoples' names into a pool and then drawing them randomly a la Secret Santa. You can then create a wish list, so your Secret Santa knows exactly what to get you without spoiling the surprise. And you can start shopping right within the app. 

Giftster covers presents for all occassions, but it's a wonderful option if you're looking to handle your personal holiday wishlist. It'll let you manage Secret Santa exchanges, too, if that's what you're after. You can rank your items with a star system so folks know which goodies you're really coveting, and which ones you're more neutral about. 

Santa's Bag hasn't been updated in some time, but the app seems to be running steadily regardless. It's got a festive design that's hard to resist, and is incredibly helpful in managing your budget and keeping you on track financially. 

This trusty little app is jam-packed with features. You can send giftcards directly to your giftee's e-mail, set budgets, prepare wishlists, and even set countdowns for upcoming parties and events. If you're worried about people getting nosey, you can also set passwords to protect your shopping lists.