5 Tips to Christmas Gift Giving that Won’t Break the Bank

Thank You For Sharing!!

Gifts are a wonderful part of Christmas. However, if you aren’t careful, it’s easy to spend way more money than you needed. Thankfully, there are ways you can give gifts without emptying your wallet.

Read on for five tips for Christmas Gift Giving that won’t break the bank!

1. Create a budget.

To keep from spending too much over the holidays, it is important that you create a gift budget. Write down everyone you need to purchase a gift for, and don’t skip anyone. Note family, friends, coworkers, teachers, and anyone else you want to give a gift.

Next, decide on the total dollar amount you want to spend on gifts. Assign each person on your list a budgeted price, careful not to go over the total you have to spend.

As you shop, be sure to write down how much you actually spend. This will help you rework your budget accordingly so you continue to stay under the total you wish to spend.

2. Shop for deals online.

The Internet can sometimes get you cheaper prices than a brick-and-mortar store. Plus, you can browse coupon websites for deals on shipping or a percentage off your purchase.

If possible, make your purchase through Ebates.com. This website lets you buy gifts at websites you would normally shop at, but also gives you cash back on your purchases.

This won’t initially save you money but getting money back will give you a little cushion for your gift-giving budget.

3. Shop secondhand.

Thrift shops and consignment stores can be great places to find Christmas gifts. And don’t think I’m saying that you need to give used items here.

Goodwill, Salvation Army, and related stores often have brand new items, still in their packaging or with tags still attached. Look for these new items and you will probably get them for a fraction of what you would pay for them in a retail store.

4. Make thoughtful gifts.

Homemade Christmas gifts help to relieve the money burden while still giving something wonderful. Many appreciate a gift you have made, since it’s more thoughtful and had more time put into it.

You could make baked goods for your family, placing cookies or bars into a cute Christmas mug. If you prefer something craftier, you could make blankets, hats, and other items to give as gifts.

5. Draw names.

One of the best ways to ensure you don’t go over budget with your gift giving is to reduce your shopping list. If your family decides to draw names, you won’t have to purchase a gift for every single person.

Many families, especially larger ones, do this to save the money burden for everyone. Plus, it’s fun to wonder who is purchasing you a gift!

 

 

Thank You For Sharing!!