So it’s that time of year again. The festive season is officially here, and Christmas is literally around the corner with the one-month countdown starting NOW!
Amongst all the festive cheer, we know that for some couples and families, Christmas can also be a financially difficult time with lots of additional expenses.
So we’ve put together a few money-saving tips to help you on the run-up to Christmas this year, to hopefully take some of the stress off!
Make a List, and Check it Twice
Before even thinking about any of the below, make a list of everything you need! And we mean everything!
Impulsive Christmas shopping for gifts, food and drink, and even decorations is a dangerous game. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the Christmas spirit that you spend money on things you don’t really need and forget the ones that you do.
A well-thought-out list and budget could save you tons this year. Just make a note of people you need to buy gifts for with a budget at the side of it. and don’t forget to put budget stores like Not On The High Street too! And then do the same again for all of your grocery shopping and decorations. If you’re likely to be joining in on Christmas festivities over the next month, then it’s also worth factoring those into your overall budget for the month, too.
Don’t Go Gift Crazy
We all know that Christmas is the time for giving, but if you normally buy your children’s friends or your nieces and nephews Christmas gifts, then why not make a pact to not go overboard this year? The other moms and dads are probably thinking the exact same anyway, so agree on a maximum budget and stick to it! Your older relatives and friends are likely to prefer something a little more personal like a sentimental or personal card from Whistlefish that they can treasure.
Likewise, don’t feel obliged to join with any (pretty pointless) Christmas gift swapping. Let’s face it, this year has been anything but ordinary, so if you want to break a tradition then now is your chance! Just reach out to your friends or colleagues and make it clear that you’re not bothered about buying gifts this year.
Or if you’re worried about people thinking you’re the Grinch, then why not offer a cheaper, (probably more fun) alternative, such as Secret Santa with a set budget in place and buy fun gifts from Buy A Gift. If there’s normally a few of you that buy for each other, then going for a cheap and cheerful Christmas meal instead together could be a good, low-cost option, too.
Start Shopping NOW!
So once you’ve decided who you’re buying gifts for and what your budget is, the quicker you start shopping, the better!
With likely global shortages throughout warehouses as we delve further into December, we may also see items go out of stock or prices become inflated. So if you’re in a position where you can start shopping now, then you’ll be able to snap up some awesome deals.
For example, if you’re buying for a game enthusiast this year, then Gamivo are offering some awesome early-bird deals across all of their games that are likely to sell out fast. Or to save you the hassle of shopping around, keep your eye on our eBay discount codes where you can find a gift for just about anyone - but be quick, these will sell out fast!
Look Out For Discount Codes
Not only are discount codes a great option for buying gifts. But if you’re after deals on groceries, decorations or even festive family outings - then make sure you look for a code before you buy!
There are absolutely tonnes of amazing promo codes to snap up this season. Here at Hey Discount, we work with the biggest brands like Prezzy Box to bring you exclusive deals across a huge range of products.
Our current discount codes across groceries, toys, fashion, and gifts could see you save up to 60% off! You could beat the Christmas rush with discount codes offering free next day delivery.
Get Cashback On Your Shopping
As well as discount codes for money off your purchases, another good way to shop wisely this Christmas is to earn money while you spend it!
Check out various cashback websites or money-saving websites such as us at Hey Discount for all of the latest deals and cashback discount codes that will allow you to earn on every purchase that you make. We even have discount codes for cashback sites like Top Cashback!
It may take a few minutes longer, but it could mean that you can beat the January blues if you receive a nice unexpected cashback payment into your bank just after Christmas!
Enjoy Cheap Family Fun Activities
Between shopping for gifts from Getting Personal and decorating the house, you probably haven’t even thought about how you’re going to keep the kids entertained whilst they're on vacation *shudders*.
But don’t panic, there are tonnes of family fun activities that you can do together that don’t have to break the bank. Get in the kitchen and bake festive favourites like mince pies or gingerbread houses, go for a Winter walk, take a ride around the neighbourhood to see all of the festive lights, make your own Christmas decorations, have a movie night, the list is endless!
Or if you’re looking for something slightly more special, there are loads of discount codes available for local events from companies such as Ares Travel and Vivid Seats where you could get tickets to holiday concerts, or even to see Santa Claus himself.
Don’t Fret! It Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect
Last but not least, remember that not everything has to be perfect! With the magic of Christmas, your kids will have the most amazing time anyway - so don’t sweat the small stuff.
If you’re hosting all the family on Christmas Day, then don’t be afraid to ask for help either. After all, the festive season is all about giving, so all muck in together and you’re guaranteed a great day without all of the stress. And don’t forget to treat yourself and stock up on your favourite tipple from Craft Gin Club so you can unwind after the festivities are over!
And there you have it! If you need any more advice on how to prepare and save money in the run-up to Christmas – please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
You should also be sure to check out our other articles, too, for tonnes of money-saving advice on household bills, holidays, and more.
