Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts, but it can also be a time for overspending. If you’re looking to save money on your Christmas shopping this year, here are a few tips from us to help you through this period:
- Set a budget and stick to it.
The first step to saving money on Christmas is to set a budget and stick to it. Don’t overspend on unnecessary items. Instead, focus on giving thoughtful and personal gifts that your loved ones will appreciate.
- Shop around for the best deals.
Compare prices at different stores before making any purchases. You may be surprised at how much you can save by shopping around.
- Consider making your own gifts.
If you’re crafty, you can save money by making your own gifts. This could be anything from homemade baked goods to personalized crafts, or visit out Reduce and Recycle hub for ideas https://marketw3.co.uk/december-reduce-and-recycle-hub
- Use coupons and cashback sites.
There are many coupons and cashback sites that can help you save money on your Christmas shopping. Be sure to take advantage of these money savings opportunities.
- Keep an eye out for discounts and freebies
Once you’ve set a budget, keep an eye out for deals and freebies that might help you stretch your money further. For example, websites offering free photo prints can make for a great personal gift for your loved ones. We recommend you keep an eye on MoneySavingExpert’s deals page for ideas.
- Consider alternative gift options.
Instead of giving traditional gifts, consider giving experiences or donating to charity in the recipient’s name. This could be a great way to give something meaningful that doesn’t cost a lot of money. Click here to find out how you can donate to AWL.
- Buy gifts early and in bulk.
If you know you’re going to need a lot of supplies for your Christmas baking or crafting, consider buying them early in the season. This will help you save money on the cost of groceries and materials.
- Get creative with your decorations.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on Christmas decorations. There are many ways to decorate your home on a budget. For example, you can use natural materials like pinecones or evergreen boughs, or you can create your own decorations using recycled materials.
- Make your own cards.
Instead of buying expensive Christmas cards, make your own. This is a great way to save money and personalise your gifts.
- Look for free or low-cost activities.
There are many free or low-cost things to do during the Christmas season. For example, you could go to a Christmas market, carolling, or a light show. Follow our social to find out whats on in Acton this season.
- Avoid last-minute shopping.
If you wait until the last minute to do your Christmas shopping, you’ll likely pay more for everything. Plan ahead and shop early to save money.
- Don’t forget to take advantage of Christmas savings.
Many stores offer special discounts and promotions during the Christmas season. Be sure to look for these savings opportunities.
- Organise a Secret Santa for large groups
It can be difficult to shop for large groups of people if you’re on a limited budget, but suggesting a “Secret Santa” can be a great solution. Everybody agrees on a budget, adds their name to a hat, and then pulls one name at random. Then, you keep whose name you pulled a secret. Secret Santa takes the practice of setting a fixed budget and adds a little fun mystery to the festivities. And, this way, nobody feels the pressure to overspend, and everybody gets a gift of approximately equal monetary value.
- Sell unwanted items
Take a look around your house for things you aren’t using. Old electronics such as phones and tablet computers often hold unexpected value, even if it’s a fraction of the price when you originally bought it. Selling unwanted possessions you weren’t otherwise using can be a great way to bolster your budget. It’s worth repeating this regularly, too, after Christmas has passed.
We hope these tips will help have a wonderful and money saving Christmas.
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By Zahra Shah