8 Ways To Do Christmas On A Budget
- Written by News Feature Team
While Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, for parents who are strapped for cash it can be more stressful than magical. With bills to pay and family to entertain, the costs of the holiday season can rack up pretty quickly. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make Christmas memorable without going into debt or pawning your possessions. Use these tips to get that festive feeling on a budget.
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Seek out stocking fillers. When it comes to smaller kids, little trinkets and stocking fillers can be just as fun as those big impressive presents. Make the moment magical by using personalised christmas stockings and fill them with inexpensive treats like small toys and sweets. Hang the stocking in their bedroom on Christmas Eve so they can wake up to an exciting surprise when the big morning arrives.
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Shop the sales. Plan your shopping wisely in the lead-up to Christmas so you can score some great deals. Go a little earlier than everyone else and hit the end of season sales – you should be able to grab some clothes, toys, and games for lower prices than you’ll find in the holiday season.
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Use auction websites. It’s usually easier to find bargains online than it is in the shops. Hit auction sites to find amazing deals on all of the family favourites, from DVDs to dolls. Don’t be afraid to shop around until you find items that suit your budget.
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Make a clear shopping list. When you head out to do your holiday shopping, whether you’re looking for gifts or buying food for entertaining, don’t leave home without a proper list. If you go empty-handed you’re far more likely to pick up items you don’t really need. Make a list and check it twice.
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Do DIY holiday decorating. Buying Christmas decorations from the shops can cost a fair amount, but it’s easy to do your own on a budget. This can be especially fun if you have kids, as they love getting hands-on with arts and crafts. Use online guides or crafting books for ideas, then start making your homemade decorations.
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Save in advance. No matter how hard you try, you’re usually going to end up spending at least a little more than you normally would over the month of December. Saving in advance will take some of the pressure off and allow you to coast through the holidays without taking out a loan. Put a little bit away each month throughout the year as your Christmas piggy bank.
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Be wise on travel costs. Travelling to visit family over the holidays can be far cheaper if you book your tickets carefully. Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals on your transport, and check different hotel costs before you travel to ensure you’re not paying more than you have to.
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Make your own gifts. When it comes to gifts for close friends and family, homemade options are usually more appreciated than a pricy, impersonal present. Bake treats as gifts for friends who love a tasty snack, and have the kids make their own cards and homemade Christmas gifts for grandparents – they’ll love the keepsake far more than any generic soap set.