How to save money around Christmas
We’re officially creeping closer to the most wonderful time of the year. Pressure to please loved ones and give children the prefect Christmas tops the list of why most people overspend during the festive period.
Here’s a guide to how you can save money for Christmas
Talk to your friends and family
It might help to remember that many people will be struggling this Christmas. If you’re spending too much on presents for loved ones, they might feel the pressure to spend the same amount on you, even if they can’t afford to.
You might feel stressed about the idea of having a difficult conversation about money, and you may forget the important things you wanted to bring up.
Set a budget
To begin your budget, make a list of family and friends you will be buying presents for and allocate an amount for each person.
If you are hosting dinner, then consider how many people will be coming over and how much you will need to spend on food and drink.
From there, you should be able to work out how much money you would need to put away each month.
For example, saving £20 a month from the start of the year will get you £240 to spend at Christmas.
Saving for Christmas
It’s difficult to pay for Christmas out of December’s pay packet alone, so it makes sense to save up as much as you can beforehand.
The earlier you start saving, the less you need to put aside each month. Even a small amount over a few months can make a big difference.
Treat saving in the same way as you would a bill.
Committing to saving a regular sum each month or week is more effective than simply saying you’ll save whatever you have left over, which might be nothing.
Try to be realistic – it’s better to commit to a manageable amount than to aim too high and give up.
Not sure how much you can afford to save? Start small – put your spare £1 or £2 coins into a jar each week.
If that works, try setting aside a bit more on a regular basis.
Consider starting some new Christmas traditions
Start some new Christmas traditions that the whole family can join in with and save some money along the way.
Picking up Christmas essentials like crackers or decorations in the sales can mean big savings, sometimes around 50%.
If you know what gifts you need to buy, it can help to pick up an item a month to help spread the cost and save you the hassle of shopping when everyone else is.
You could also embrace the digital age and email Christmas cards to save on postage.
There are lots of free websites that let you create your own cards, with family photos and videos.
A pre-Christmas clear out with the family will help you get in order for the festive season but could also put some money back in your pocket.
Once you’ve put aside anything you no longer want, make some extra cash by selling it online or at a local sale.
If you time it right, you’ll find plenty of people looking for second-hand gifts.