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Christmas on a Budget: Top Tips and Advice
The festive season can be
stressful at the best of times, but when you have your children’s Santa sacks to
consider, it can all be a little too overwhelming sometimes. Many of us ask
ourselves, “how on Earth are we going to afford it all?” and while some may be a
little prepared, having saved money over the past several months or buying
things advance, not all of us will be so lucky.
If the main aim of your
Christmas Day is to see smiles on your kids’ faces, there are plenty of ways in
which you can economise on other things to ensure they have a great time. While
it’s certainly not all about presents, Christmas is obviously going to be
important to them. Make it about the quality time you’re going to be having as a
family and save money anywhere you can. Here are some great ways in which you
can budget for Christmas and enjoy the festivities without spending as much.
Be a little crafty
Why spend a substantial
amount of your Christmas budget on cards, labels and gifts when you could all
get together as a family and make things for your loved ones? Sending a
handmade card is far more personal than a shop-bought one anyway, and other than
buying the materials, is a cheaper option too.
You can make your own
decorations easily too, without having to spend a fortune on the ones you see in
stores. The materials won’t cost much and the personal touches are far more
important.
Consider making gifts too
– whether it’s a personalised photo frame, a homemade candle or some
yummy fudge is up to you!
Play games
 Does Christmas have
to be about how big the present stash is? Why not minimise the amount of
presents you exchange and consider spending the day enjoying eachother’s company
as much as possible. Treat your family to a game that you can all play and have
some fun, memorable times playing it.
Buy Second Hand
Whether you have a look
online, wander a nearly new sale, browse the second hand shops or head for the
charity shops, if you’re strapped for cash (or even if you’re not!), it’s a
great way of seeing your money go further.
Keep an eye out for special offers
Throughout the year, if you make a list of people you have to buy for and
then pick a gift up when something’s on offer, you’ll be able to save a fortune.
Toy stores provide some great deals throughout the year, including 3 for 2
offers on big name brands, such as the
Fisher-price Say Please Tea Set and tablet computers.
Christmas doesn’t have to be extortionate. Be a little frugal and your
Christmas won’t be any less special than previous years – just cheaper!
Dated 05 November 2013
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