Senior Helper

 

Christmas season is just around the corner. More and more people have already started buying Christmas presents while others are still busy finalizing their shopping list. It’s such a festive season so it’s so easy to get carried away with holiday gift giving- buying so many cute and expensive gifts for friends, co-workers and family members. However, it is important that you stay practical and aware of your holiday spending, otherwise you might just turn into a grinch!

 

Here are some smart ways to help you save money during the shopping season:

 

1. Create a budget and stick to it.

Planning is key in saving. It is important to come-up with a budget and be sure to stick to it to avoid overspending. Times our hard so it’s okay not to give expensive gifts. Don’t worry everyone will understand. Also, it is advisable to make a list of things you want to buy as gifts for your loved ones. Be sure to check it twice just like Santa Claus.

 

2. Use coupons.

Collect and use coupons, as this will help you save lots of money. Check your local papers, magazines and the Internet for coupons. However, be sure not to cut or save coupons that you will not use to avoid the temptation of buying unnecessary things. 

 

3. Don’t be impulsive.

Don’t buy the first item you see. Before buying something, make sure you:

  • really like it
  • have compared similar items based on quality and price
  • it’s within your budget.

Based on statistics, when shopping is done impulsively, people end up spending more. The best way to avoid shopping impulsively is prioritize spending and setting a budget on things you plan to buy.

 

4. Recycle gifts.

Check your closet, you’ll be surprise you’ll find something- maybe unopened present, new toy, clothes, accessories, etc. It is wise to recycle gifts to avoid spending more money this holiday season. However, if you decide to do this, be very careful not to give the gift to the same person who gave it to you originally.

 

5. Organize a gift-exchange program.

In order to keep your budget on gifts low this season, why not organize a gift-exchange program instead of giving gifts to everyone? This is a smarter way of cutting down on gift expenses during the Christmas season.

 

6. Be creative

Instead of buying Christmas gifts and cards, why don’t you put your creativity to work? Homemade gifts are more meaningful and cheaper than items you can buy in stores. In fact, sometimes it can even be nicer. In addition, Christmas cards can be costly considering the postage you have to pay for. However, if you still want to send Christmas cards to your loved ones, why not try sending E-cards instead.

 

7. Buy gift items in bulk.

It is cheaper to buy things in bulk. You can go to Costco or other warehouse stores to get gifts. Most of the items being sold in these stores are in bulk, so what you can do is split the items or distribute the items accordingly to your friends and family.

 

8. Buy at discount stores.

Avoid paying for retail price. You can find the same items in discounts stores like Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshalls,, Nordstrom rack, etc.

 

9. Browse and compare prices online.

Most of the time, you can find amazing deals online. When you see something you like at the mall, chances are it will be cheaper online. Before you purchase something be sure to compare the prices online.

 

10. Shop after the holidays.

You can find the best deals when shopping after the holidays. Usually most stores offer terrific deals the day after until the weekend after Christmas. During this time, most of the stores intend to get rid of all the seasonal items they have so they significantly mark down their prices up to 75% off the original retail price. You just need to be patient in going through the entire sale racks, as you may be able to find something you really like. Do not let this opportunity pass as this will allow you to save tremendously on holiday decors and gifts for next year.

 

Remember, every penny counts. You don’t have to spend a lot. It’s the thought that countsEnjoy your shopping and have a blessed holiday season!!!

 

 

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