Tis the Season

Already counting the cost of Christmas? Enjoy the festivities without the financial hangover with our 12 saves of Christmas....to save 'TIS THE SEASON 1

Consider downscaling your Christmas list and agree not to buy for friend’s children, extended family etc. You’ll be amazed how receptive (and relieved) they’ll be to losing a present or two from their ever growing list.

If you’re finding it hard to cull your list, how about a traditional Secret Santa? Choose a budget and everyone pulls one name out of a hat to buy for. Cheaper, less time consuming and the chances are you’ll have more fun choosing for your special one.

It’s the thought that counts, and spending time together this year will bring more joy than an unwanted gift. Whether it’s in person or virtually, 2020 is the year to value experiences and conversations over clutter.

Regifting has a bad rep, but what if we renamed it “the present relocation program” … better? Seriously, it’s okay to regift! It saves money and keeps an unwanted gift from going unused. Just be careful not to regift it to the friend that bought it for you!

5

One woman’s trash is another woman’s treasure, so even if you don’t want something, you might find someone willing to pay to take it off your hands. There are plenty of online sites including Zapper which will buy unwanted gift cards.

6

Online shopping will be most people’s go-to. While you may miss the Christmas spirit (but not the queues and bunions) it can be a great way to find the latest deals. Even the high street stores have online flash sales in the weeks up to Christmas. Now that’s worth staying in for!

7

Remember to make a list before you start shopping and allocate a budget for each person that you’re buying for. Then stick to it! If you do break the bank on some gifts, then claw it back on other items, to help balance the budget.

8

If you’re planning a one-off family purchase - television, home cinema, games console etc. – and missed Black Friday, wait until the Boxing Day sales…what difference a day makes! And if you’re not suffering from Christmas fatigue it’s a great time to buy next year’s gifts too!

9

It’s easy to get carried away spending money to make your home feel festive. But making your own decorations and table settings à la Kirsty Allsopp is the perfect way to save, and create a unique Christmas look too.

10

If you still feel the need to send Christmas cards then look out for 3 for 2 offers, or rope the kids in and design and print your own family card. Swap expensive wrapping paper for brown paper tied with colourful ribbon.

11

Consider down branding your food shopping. You don’t have to go crazy, just drop one level to retain quality and taste but save money too. Do the bulk online and avoid the dreaded supermarket queues. The only problem now is how to fit it all in the fridge.

12

Finally consider applying for a cashback credit card. They are essentially a form of reward scheme, yet rather than giving points, you get cold hard cash, tax-free, every time you spend on the card. Every little helps!