Do you typically overspend during Christmas? Saving money at Christmas is just not something we think about, because we want to buy all the things. Which is great in theory, but not if it means going into debt.
1.Set a budget and stick to it.
Set a budget for each person you plan on buying a gift for, and then make sure you actually follow it!
When you set an actual dollar amount it will help you subconsciously think about your purchases and to keep yourself in check.
If you have already purchased some items, make a list of what you have spent so you know whether or not the gift budget has been reached.
2. Start Early
Have you ever heard the phrase "the early bird gets the worm"? Well, buying Christmas gifts early on is a great way to save because you have the time to shop around and make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck.
Have you ever seen the sales that go on after Christmas? This is the perfect time to buy Christmas decorations and knick knacks when they get marked down 75%. Just avoid any food items.
3. Reuse Gift Bags
Anytime we receive gifts (for Christmas, or birthdays) and they are in a fun gift bag, we always save them to reuse! Some of those extra special gift bags can be anywhere from $5-$8.
4. DIY Christmas Decorations
If you are crafty, try making some Christmas decorations yourself instead of buying them. DIY wreaths and garland can be so much more extravagant than the kind already assembled, and at a fraction of the cost.
Just be diligent though because it's easy to get sucked into buying all kinds of DIY craft supplies.
5. Use an artificial Christmas tree
Okay, I know there are those who are adamantly against this, but it will save you money in the long run.
Artificial trees range from $100-$200 on the low end, and they last many years while a real Christmas tree is only good for a few weeks.
6. Make your own Christmas cookies
We've all been there, those tins of Christmas cookies just calling our names in the grocery store, but making your own cookies is so much cheaper!
If you are not into baking, check out my no bake Christmas tree cookies on my food blog. They are easy to make, but still impress at parties!
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