The holiday season is finally here – the season of merry-making and gift-giving. While it’s a time of the year many of us have been eagerly awaiting, it can also be a time that brings significant stress, especially when it comes to our finances. Oftentimes, because the holidays are a time of togetherness and gifts, we may feel tempted to splurge on presents and celebrations that make the holidays memorable and fun. But do we really have to overspend? Is it essential that we shell out more money than necessary and give into temptations of holiday madness? If you think you can’t work within a budget this holiday season, think again!
The good news is there are ways to make your celebration fun and memorable without breaking the bank! Read on and learn how to make the most of your holiday budget this year.
Set a budget
Before you indulge in holiday shopping, it’s best to start by creating a holiday budget and setting a goal. Think about the amount of funds you can allocate for holiday expenses and make sure everything fits within that budget. Make a list of everything you need to buy, including gifts, hosting dinners and parties, and so on. Try to allocate an amount for each item on your list, to make sure you don’t go overboard.
Be practical with gift-giving
Trying to cut back on gifts? Giving amazing gifts that fit your budget is possible! Try to think about giving something that each recipient actually wants or needs. You may opt for something he or she can wear or use. By doing this, your gifts are more practical and therefore more likely to be appreciated.
Do your research
The holiday season brings opportunities for more discounts and amazing deals. Did you know you can save even more money by being an informed shopper? All you need to do is to take time to do some research. This is the best way to find out if you’re getting the best deal on a product. Search the internet to check the current prices of the products you intend to buy. You can also window-shop and browse prices in stores as you narrow down which vendor offers the best deal.
There are also websites and tools that help you comparison-shop so you can save a few bucks. Value every dollar and cent you save because no matter how little, they will add up.
Make DIY gifts
Have you ever thought of giving “DIY” holiday presents? If you haven’t, now is the time to consider this route and skip store-bought items. In addition to being a good way to save money and allow more room in your holiday budget, it’s also an excellent way to channel your inner artist and make use of your creativity. After all, any gift that’s handmade and customized is more personal and thoughtful. The recipient of your gift will appreciate it even more!
Don’t shop based on the predetermined amount
So you have made a list of all your friends and family members for whom you plan to buy gifts this year. You’ve also assigned a corresponding price range for each person’s gift. However, keep in mind that the amount assigned is meant to be a ceiling. You don’t need to necessarily spend the full allotted amount if you can find a nice present that is under your limit.
Reuse previous year’s holiday decorations
Who says you need to spend money every year on new holiday decorations? You can also reuse and recycle! People spend a lot of money unnecessarily on things like Christmas trees, ornaments, stockings, wreaths, table runners and the like. However, having a fun and meaningful holiday doesn’t have to require grand decorations. Make use of the ones you already have and have used in previous years! You can probably update the theme with a few new pieces, and there’s nothing wrong with mixing the old with the new.
Many of us have come to accept that the holiday season needs to entail excessive spending. But who says you have to overspend? By setting a realistic holiday budget and a well-established plan, you can enjoy a fun and stress-free holiday without breaking the bank!
For more tips on money management, please visit Calcite Credit Union.
