10 Ways to Spend Less This Holiday Season

With the holiday season right around the corner, many people find themselves looking for ways to get into the holiday spirit without breaking the bank. No matter how many people you have on your holiday list, being festive and frugal is possible with these easy tips.

1. Trim your gift list. It may sound obvious but one of the best ways to spend less is to buy fewer gifts. If you and your family traditionally buy gifts for everyone, consider only playing Santa to the kids. Or, draw names so everyone makes a purchase for just one adult.

2. Set a limit. It’s easier to stick to your budget if you know exactly how much you can spend on each person. And with Internet shopping now so simple, you can search for gifts based on the price point and not get enticed by more expensive options.

3. Buy in bulk. If you know you’d like to get many of your holiday gifts from the same online retailer, buy them all at once. It’s a great way to save on shipping costs – and sometimes you can get discounts when you spend over a certain amount of money.

4. Pay with cash. When you spend only cash on your purchases, you won’t have to worry about costly interest rates when you get your credit card bill. Or, if you prefer the convenience of plastic, just use your banking check card.

5. Get creative. To cut costs even further, consider making gifts for everyone. For example, if Aunt Bea loves scarves, learn to knit. Or if Dad loves music, make him a CD of his favorite tunes.

6. Hit the sales. Some stores typically start holiday sales after the Halloween festivities end. And you’re not a fan of Black Friday crowds – don’t forget about the savings on Cyber Monday, which falls after the Thanksgiving weekend.

7. Recycle gifts. Try a white elephant swap to get rid of some unwanted gifts. Or, ask friends to pick out treasures at second hand stores. You’ll be amazed at how one man’s trash can be another’s treasure!

8. Opt for apps. Instead of a big sit-down holiday dinner, plan a lighter menu that features lots of appetizers. Your guests will have just as much fun, and you can save a bundle.

9. Hit craft fairs and flea markets. They’re a great alternative to the traditional stores, and you can buy interesting gifts you probably wouldn’t be able to find at your local mall.

10. Recycle your wrapping. One of the easiest ways to save on gift wrapping supplies is by reusing the ones you received the year before. You’ll be amazed at how quickly those gift bags can add up!

Remember that the holiday season is more about spending time with family and less about overdoing it financially. By setting spending goals up front and sticking to them, you’ll enjoy a stress-free holiday season. And remember, the earlier you start saving next year, the better off you’ll be. Happy Holidays!

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Maria Rainier is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is currently a resident blogger at First in Education, researching areas of online degree programs. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

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