"Procrastinating" shoppers are hoping their patience is rewarded with last-minute Christmas deals and bargains.

A recent National Retail Federation (NRF) survey found that millions have yet to begin shopping for friends and loved ones.

According to the survey. the average person has completed close to 65 percent of their holiday shopping. The study also found the biggest procrastinators were men and those within the 18-34 year-old age bracket.

One in three shoppers said they had finished shopping, the survey said.

With so many taking things to the wire, National Retail Federation President and CEO Tracy Mullin believes the next few days are important both for retailers and consumers.

"Retailers will try to make last-minute shopping easier for holiday procrastinators by offering incredible promotions and gift ideas within a certain budget or for a specific person," Mullin said.

The federation's Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey was designed to gauge consumer behavior and shopping trends related to the winter holidays. The survey polled 4,117 consumers.

NRF officials initially believed the holidays were sneaking up on shoppers due to there being five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.

However, local resident Sean Colvin said it's more about getting a good deal.

"In today's economy you have to budget your money and find the best deal," Colvin said. "So it's not exactly waiting till the last minute, but instead making sure you do what's best for your pockets."

For others like Shelby, N.C., resident Tina McDill, starting later has more to do with convenience than price.

"Sometimes you don't want to have to deal with all the people, in addition to the terrible places to park," McDill said. "I just find it better to do it late; that's how I'd rather do my Christmas shopping."