How To Save Money This Christmas Without Losing The Sparkle
Christmas is around the corner, which means that you should have saved up some money for Santa’s sleigh landing. So, as the clock starts ticking with just a few days to go, if you haven’t prepared for it by now follow our tips to save money this Christmas.
We understand that you might be feeling the financial crunch right now. The current economy has left many people with less money than they’re used to having to spend on gifts. The truth is, there are many alternative options to spending lots of money over this time.
This is not to say that exchanging gifts shouldn’t be part of Christmas. However, holiday shopping is fun, and gifts are a way to show how much you care for someone.
Here are some of our creative ways to save money this Christmas, ensuring that the holiday season doesn’t strain your budget, or lose its sparkle!
Plan for affordability, not desirability
Before you start planning, consider this: many people list lusted-for items, such as expensive wines, vacations and accessories. Only afterwards, do they consider how they will pay for it. Even though this may be how many South Africans think, it is a recipe for financial disaster. So instead, calculate your budget and ask yourself, “what can I afford to spend on Christmas?”
Christmas is one day of the year, so don’t set yourself up for financial ruin for just one day!
Send cards instead of gifts
A thoughtful Christmas card shows people that you’re thinking of them and can often mean more than a commercial gift. Save even more money by purchasing cards in bulk, and include a handwritten note to personalize your card.
Create DIY gifts
One of the best ways to save money this Christmas is by creating do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts. Consider crafting, or sending baked goods, instead of store-bought presents. Homemade and DIY gifts often offer a sentimental touch that you can’t find in any store. Look for DIY gift ideas online and plan ahead so that you have plenty of time to create your gifts.
Make a shopping list
When you go shopping, make a list of the items that you need to purchase. This will prevent impulse purchases. Calculate how much money you can afford to spend and stick to the budgeted amount.
Participate in Secret Santa
Instead of buying gifts for all your friends and family, draw one person’s name and become that person’s Secret Santa. Place a limit on how much each person is to spend. Instead of buying gifts for all of your friends and family, you only have to spend money on one person.
Share the costs of holiday meals
If you’re hosting any holiday meals or parties, don’t be shy to tell people what they should bring. This allows others to share in on the costs of the celebration.
If you’re worried about this festive season and are having trouble keeping up with your monthly debt repayments, feel free to fill out National Debt Advisors’ (NDA) contact form and one of our consultants will call you back!
