Four Money Saving Tips as Holiday Season Approaches
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and of course, gifts.
But it can also be a very costly time. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend an average of $805 on holiday gifts this year. That’s up from $746 last year. But with a little bit of planning and some money saving tips, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are four money saving tips that should help you get through the holiday season without breaking the bank.
1. Make a budget and stick to it.
This may seem like an obvious money saving tip, but it’s one that is often ignored. Before you start your holiday shopping, sit down and figure out how much money you can realistically spend on gifts. Once you have a number in mind, make a list of the people you need to buy for and stick to it. It’s also a good idea to set aside some money for unexpected expenses like shipping costs or holiday parties.
If you’re not sure how to make a budget, there are plenty of online resources available. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling has a helpful guide on how to create a budget, and the US Department of Agriculture has a guide on how to create a household budget.
2. Shop around for the best deals.
Don’t just head to the nearest store and start buying gifts. Take some time to compare prices online and in stores. You might be surprised at how much you can save by doing a little bit of research. And don’t forget to take advantage of sales and coupons.
One of the best ways to save money during the holiday season is to use coupons. You can find coupons for almost everything, from clothes to electronics to home goods. And don’t forget about online coupons. There are websites like Coupon Sherpa that offer a variety of coupons for different stores. Using coupons can save you a lot of money, especially if you are buying multiple items. For example, if you have a coupon for 10% off your purchase at a store, and you purchase $100 worth of items, you will save $.
3. Get creative with your gift giving.
If you’re really on a tight budget, get creative with your gift giving. Instead of buying expensive gifts, try making something yourself or put together a basket of items that the recipient will appreciate. If you have kids, get them involved in making gifts for grandparents or other family members. They’ll love it and it’ll save you money.
If you’re looking for a money-saving alternative to buying gifts, why not try making them yourself? Here are five DIY gift ideas that are both easy and affordable.
- Homemade soap. This is a great gift for anyone on your list, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. All you need is some glycerin soap base, soap colorants, and essential oils.
- Candles. Another easy and popular DIY gift is candles. You can make them in any scent or color you want, and they make a great addition to any home.
- Personalized mug. If you have a creative person on your list, why not try making them a personalized mug? It’s simple to do and the recipient will love it.
- Baked goods. Nothing says “I care about you” like a batch of fresh baked cookies or brownies. And best of all, it’s a gift that everyone can enjoy.
- Knitted items. If you’re good with a needle and thread, why not try knitting some simple items like scarves or hats? You could even knit them in colors that the recipient will love.
4. Don’t forget about the non-material things.
Some of the best gifts are the ones that don’t cost any money at all. If you’re really struggling to find a gift that fits your budget, think about giving someone an experience instead. Tickets to a show or a gift certificate for a day of pampering are always appreciated. And if all else fails, a simple handwritten card expressing your thoughts and well wishes is sure to be appreciated.
Saving money during the holiday season doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these money saving tips, you can enjoy all the holidays have to offer without breaking the bank.
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