You know it, it’s that time of the year again...
Christmas shopping.
For most, it's one of the most exciting times of the year. Friends and family are all home, and everyone is happy to clock off for the year and maybe even get a present or two from the big guy himself.
On the flip side, Christmas can be a tough time of the year for some. If you’re really feeling the pinch, one of the best ways to get through Christmas is to be creative.
To help with that, we’ve created a quick fire list to help you spread the cheer without emptying your pockets.
Here are 5 ways to go from grinch to giftmaster this year!
1. Split the bill and buy gifts as a group.
As the saying goes, a problem shared is a problem halved. One of the best ways to save during Christmas time is to team up with friends or family and chip in to purchase a gift for another friend or family member.
This not only makes it cheaper for everyone but also means the receiver of the gift gets something they’ve always wanted, rather than a pack of socks again for the 5th straight year! 😳
This is as easy as setting a budget amongst your group and then putting a small amount into an account each week leading up to the day.
2. Family Secret Santa.
If you have a big family, buying gifts for everyone not only means you have to almost start thinking of ideas in June, but it also means things can get expensive.
Another way to do it is by doing a family secret Santa. The idea is that you draw a family member's name out of a hat a couple months before Christmas, and whoever you get, you have to buy it for them based on a set budget.
That way, you don’t have to buy for everyone, and the person you buy for gets a decent gift.
3. DIY Gifts.
Some of the best gifts at Christmas time are the ones that someone makes themselves.
Look at ways you can use your skills to create something yourself this year; whether that's some art, furniture, baking, or a personalised photo album, it’s the thought that really counts.
Creating something for a friend or family member can often mean more than buying something from the shops, putting that extra effort in means it holds sentimental value for them.
4. Shop around and find deals.
It’s easy to buy something right then and there when you’re in store, but chances are you’ll be able to find it cheaper online. Retailers are always competing for you to spend with them, so they’ll have deals available to entice you to shop with them.
Use tools like price comparison and discount code websites to find the same gift but at a much cheaper price.
So there you have it. Some quick and easy ways to save this year so you can go into this holiday season with confidence that you’re not going to break the bank whilst making it memorable.
If you’re still struggling to give gifts this season, don’t feel pressured. Remember, your presence can sometimes be the present.
5. Set a budget and stick to it
I know there’s nothing spectacular about this part, but it’s needed. It’s easy to get carried away with buying gifts, so having a backup plan there for you to know what your limit is will make sure you don’t break the bank!
Set your budget, then think about what you’d like to buy for your friends and family this year, and then put values against each item. If the total value falls within your budget, then you’re good to go; if not, then you need to make some adjustments.
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Final words
Thanks for reading, if you have any feedback or questions on what you've seen so far, feel free to get in touch using our contact form or alternatively give us a bell at hello@budgetbuddie.co.nz
Disclaimer
This blog or any other information provided by BudgetBuddie is not financial advice. If you're needing financial advice please get in touch with a licensed financial advisor or professional.
