Holidays on a Budget

The Holiday season is a time of giving and gift-giving, but doesn’t mean that you can be a part of the giving without staying on a budget! Often times we feel that we must give and give during the holidays, but that doesn’t mean that you should overspend or spend without planning for such expenses! You should look to take advantage of any additional savings, including coupons and sales that occur just after the holidays have passed! In addition, consider certain gift alternatives that are still fitting of the season but won’t break the bank! After all, those whom you are buying for can certainly appreciate the gesture without you overspending!

Save when you Can

When you prepare to spend for the holiday season, it’s important to look for savings whenever you can! Many stores will offer coupons or sales on Black Friday or other days leading up to the holidays, and you should take full advantage of these opportunities. In addition, if fighting the crowds of holiday shopping isn’t your thing, then consider all of the great deals that await you through online stores! Given the prevalence and popularity of Amazon and other online retailers, many stores will offer exclusives to online orders! While shipping costs are a unique part of items purchased online, you’ll have often come out ahead with the money you’ll save by purchasing things online!

Also, while it may not feel as festive, it’s perfectly fine to give gift cards or other things that those whom you’re giving to can use on those after-holiday sales! Again, you shouldn’t be concerned that the gift that you give isn’t as unique or festive as you feel it should be—after all, you’re trying to be a part of the holidays without breaking the bank!

Gift Alternatives are Perfectly Acceptable

Giving alternative gifts can be unique and can be a great way to save money and still ensure that everyone gets a gift that they’ll enjoy! A gift exchange is something that is often thought of during the holidays as being a fun and festive way to enjoy the season with friends and even co-workers, but why not use it with your family? Set a dollar amount for each person to spend on a gift and then go about the process of drawing names or numbers from a hat in order to determine who gets what gift! Again, it may not be the traditional holiday gift giving that you think of, but it’s a great way to save money while getting everyone involved in a fun, and unique holiday gift exchange!

Contact Carolina Money Minders for more tips on how to save during this holiday season.