Last Updated on December 21, 2020 by HodgePodgeDays
In the run up to Christmas, thinking of ways to budget can often be daunting. You still have the longest school term to get through, not to mention all of the Christmas presents you need to start buying. However, there are ways in which you can save money throughout this period.
Here are our handy tips to help you…
Budget carefully
If you know that the weekend away with friends that you have planned is going to be pricey, ensure that the following few weekends are low-key. Likewise, if there are any other big events in your diary in the run up to Christmas, it’s essential to budget for the rest of the time.
When it comes to purchasing gifts for your loved ones throughout the winter months, create a spreadsheet beforehand and work out how much you’d like to spend on each individual. That way, you will not go overboard.
Try some free activities in the half term
While the idea of a week away in the sunshine, lunches out with friends or numerous trips to the cinema with the kids all sound amazing, they also come with a cost (which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to save). In order to keep everyone happy during the half term, why not opt for some free activities? From bike rides and uphill hikes to cake baking and creating your own musical instruments, there are plenty of fun things that you can plan with your family that won’t cost the earth.
Take advantage of big sales and online deals
When the likes of Black Friday come around, take advantage of the fantastic prices that these shopping holidays offer. By managing to purchase items at discounted prices, you will be saving yourself money off your overall budget — and getting your loved ones great gifts at an ever better price.
Get creative
Instead of buying an enormous number of presents, why not consider creating some of your own? Your personalised, handmade gifts will be much more appreciated by friends and family, as they will be able to see just how much time and effort has gone into them. Plus, you’ll be saving costs by avoiding the expensive items in the shops.
By organising your finances well and following these helpful tips, you’ll be able to make your cash stretch further throughout the longest school term and the run up to Christmas.
This is a contributed post.