Christmas is the time of year when it’s easy to spend more than you can afford and, if you have kids, it’s tempting to buy them everything on their Christmas lists. This means that many of us find it a struggle to make ends meet at the start of a new year. Budgeting at Christmas has little appeal when there’s so much fun to be had but it really can make all the difference to how you start the new year.
These are just common sense, but here is a reminder of some simple things you can do to avoid emptying your wallet and maxing out your credit cards.
Write a List and Stick to it
So easy to say but how many of us actually sit down and take the time to write a list? Whether you prefer handwritten or typed, there are so many apps and journals available to take the dullness out of what can be a bit of a chore. Make yourself a hot chocolate, get cosy and start writing.
How many of us mums remember to include ourselves on the list by the way?
Set a Budget
Budgeting at Christmas is key. Just jot down who you intend buying for, what you’re thinking of buying them, and the amount you’re thinking of spending on them. This way it will be easy to see if you are likely to go over budget before you start online shopping or head out to town.
When you have an idea of how much you want to spend on each person, set a budget that you can afford. If you think money is going to be tight, work out where you can cut back on your occasional spending or be ruthless with who really should be on the gift list.
You might also want to talk to your immediate family to agree on an upper financial limit to gifts or perhaps restricting gift-giving, as my sister and I do, to our kids and just giving each other a bottle of wine.
You don’t really need to give gifts to relatives you see once a year, I think and certainly don’t go mad for friends who wouldn’t put themselves out for you. Very often I think we spend out of guilt or in an attempt to win friendship. That very rarely works.
The other thing that can swallow up your cash if you’re not careful is stocking fillers for the kids and pets, as well as advent calendars.
Again, budgeting at Christmas can make all the difference and make sure you do your research when it comes to cashback schemes and voucher codes like those from Raise.
Start shopping as early in the year as possible
The earlier you start putting money towards your budget in the year, the better you’ll feel when it’s time to go Christmas shopping. Yes, Christmas shopping in August can be depressing, but it all helps to avoid being broke during the new year.
It’s also a good idea to have a review of your finances in July to see what other bills are looming and how much realistically you can free up for Christmas.
Don’t forget the ‘incidentals’
It’s a cliche but true nevertheless that it is the thought that counts but remember that the smallest amounts can really add up. It’s not just the gift, is it? There’s cards, wrapping paper, gift boxes and bags, postage and even fuel to deliver them in person.
There are always those things that you forget to buy and end up desperately scrabbling around your corner shop at 4 pm on Christmas Eve.
You can find lots of helpful gift lists online if you need some inspiration and Pinterest is a great place to look.
Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash
Use credit wisely
Obtaining a credit account is an option, although you’ll need to proceed with caution because too much credit and particularly defaulting on payments will have a negative on your credit score. This might mean being turned down for important loans in the future – for example, a mortgage.
The question is, can you trust yourself to make all the repayments on time, without incurring compound interest and late payment fees?
You may be able to spread the cost of Christmas by shopping with some of the catalogue stores who offer credit accounts but make sure you know what you are getting into and if the credit is interest-free. Otherwise, the cost of your purchase will be much higher than the advertised price.
Compare Prices
Before buying something, compare prices in different stores first to see if you can get it any cheaper. Every little helps, especially at this time of year. Do try to support smaller businesses and your local traders. This year is going to be a tough Christmas trading period for lots of the smaller retailers and crafts folk who are fighting the might of Amazon and the like.
My personal feeling is that if we don’t start to support our local traders then the high street as we know it may well just disappear and, much as I enjoy the convenience of internet shopping, there is nothing like the experience of Christmas shopping in a shop – if you are prepared and sensibly dressed for it that is!
Get creative and make your own gifts
Why not get creative and make some stuff yourself? This will save you a ton of money, and people will appreciate the thought and effort you’ve put into their gifts a lot more. You could make a food hamper, pamper hamper, cupcakes, a canvas, or anything else you can think of.
Give to Charity
I think it’s fair to say that charities have had as tough a year as the retailers and my personal preference is to support the smaller, local charities where I can see that my donations are actually making a difference.
If you want to give a gift to someone who has everything and is a supporter of a particular charity, why not give to charity in their name? Of course, there are plenty of charity Christmas cards but I find that more and more of us are relying on email and texts. It’s not the same, though, is it?
I hope these tips will serve as a useful reminder that, with a bit of planning and budgeting, you can take control of your Christmas spending and avoid the stress of wondering when the credit card bills and email reminders will start appearing.
And don’t forget that you deserve a gift too – if it’s only some time out for pampering and whatever form of self-care works for you.
Great Tips I make hampers for family and buy quirky charity shop finds to gift and pop into stockings
throughout the year i collect store points which i redeem during christmas shop
I tried to follow the Skint Dad savings which helped a lot last year. You save a certain amount each day. It soon adds up and it all helps!
I start early to spread the cost. I do my research, don’t just buy something in the first shop you see it in. Look around as you could find it cheaper elsewhere and make the most of sales and enter comps for the more pricey presents, you never know it could be your lucky day!!
Shop for bargains x
I start early,look for bargains,hunt for vouchers and do competitions to help out
I accumulate store points through the year to have extra room in the budget for spending!
Keep a list of ideas and always research the best prices before buying x
enter comps like this and squirrel aside .
Set up a direct debit into a savings account and transfer an amount each month when you’re paid. By Christmas you’ll be able to afford all your presents and Christmas expenditure without having to find it all at once
Save a little bit every month
Stick to a budget and list what you buy people if buy throughout year in sales. Go to the pound shops!
Make your own hampers for family
One year, we kept to a £10 budget for gifts for each person.
We bought cat litter trays (which were new and cheap to buy)
Used shredded coloured paper (magazine pages or old wrapping paper for lining the base. Wrapped each gift and wrapped hamper in cling film and finished with bow and gift tag.
Suggested gifts included – sweets or chocolates priced at £1 or less
Small bottle of bucks fizz £2 or less, flannel and soap, book, bubble bath, socks, costume jewellery.
Places to buy – Home bargains, Poundland, Superdrug
buy presents when there are sales 🙂
I initially felt a bit awkward about my shopping tip, bu them more I speak to others, the more I realise that they think it’s a good idea.
I check charity shops for specific toys for the kids or for ornaments for friends. For example, Leo absolutely loves action figures. Instead of paying £15 plus in the shops for a new ‘spiderman’ ‘ironman’ etc, I have bought a wooden box (£3 from the british heart foundation) and filled it with lots of figures that I have paid 1 or 2 pounds each for.
Similarly, I have a friend who collects hearts to hang on the wall. I’ve found 3 or 4 of these, some still in their original packaging, for up to £3 each.
OK, so I can’t find everything in the charity shops, but it what I can find, cuts down my Christmas spend and gives money to good causes at the same time.
My best tip is to start shopping in the January sales for the following Christmas. I start on Boxing Day and buy something most weeks.
Make up a list and stick to it (one present per person)
Shop all year round especially sale items, write a list and stuck to it! Use an app to help budget your christmas spends.
Re use u wanted/unused gifts (to people who did not give you the item in the first place)
start as early as you can
Recycle, reuse, buy second hand, create yourself
start early and buy throughout the year so you get to dec mostly done
I shop all year long in the sales, and often enter competitions hoping for a win or two to help towards gifts.
I use cashback websites
To remember your presence is way more important that presents ?
buy presents in the sales and use cashback sites
Shop around look for bargains
I try to pick up things during the year, and never pay full price for anything!!
Start early before the prices go up
You don’t need to spend a fortune at christmas time. Remember christmas present don’t equate to love
Talk to your family and only buy presents for those you are close to. No need to swap bath sets with your second cousin!
I always start shopping earlier in the year and buy presents in the sales. I buy Christmas cards, crackers, wrapping paper etc in the January sales.
Save a little every week, shop around for best prices and start as early as possible
Start your shopping as early as you can and buy things in the sales
Use price comparison sites
Shop around for the best price. If you leave it too late you will not have time to shop around and will pay a premium.
Look round for the best price for everything that you buy. Don’t forget about shopping apps for food
I try not to buy for too many people – we usually just buy for children now x
Love Costa
Each person has a budget which we strictly stick to… if I get something for instance on a 2 for 1 or 3 for 2 offer, I don’t treat the free item as being for free, I treat it as the value that it should cost. So when boots do 3 for 2 I can buy 3 peoples presents but it only costs me 2 people. I have 8 nieces and nephews, and rather than buying them their budgets worth of present at Christmas and birthdays which these days you don’t get much for the budget, each month I put a set amount in savings accounts I have opened for each of them. When they turn 16 they will have a lump sum, rather than £20 twice a year. They don’t notice the difference as they get so many presents from everyone else anyway.
Make a list and stick to it, I used to make so many spontaneous purchases before, but I’m much better now.
I pick things up all year round. For food etc I collect nectar points all year, xmas food shop ends up costing about £10.
shop in sales throughout the year and compare prices as sometimes theres a huge difference
I start in August when it’s furthest from most people’s minds then write a list of what’s left to get. Then I can enjoy my birthday in December as a lot of the hard work is done.
every year i get a diary for xmas i make a list of people i want to buy for the following year as shops have sales all year round i pick up bits in them sales and tick off the person with the gift i brought
Put some money aside each week for Christmas.
Buy early, go to places like TK Maxx for great savings and products. Make food, like chocolate truffles or fudge at home and reuse packaging and wrap.
Buy throught the year when there are offers
Do your research to find the best price, use comparison sites and cashback sites.
Keep an eye out for offers and sales all year round.
I try to buy all my wrapping paper and gift bags as well as presents in the sale, i leave all character themed items out though as the kids change their minds by the following.
i would love my family to try a secret santa style gifting one year with a reasonable budget of around £50 but ive not ocnvinced them yet
Buy things throughout the year when there are special offers
buy things through the year when you see it in sales etc so its not such a huge amount of money at once
I do most of my shopping online and use cashback sites.
My tip is buy throughout the year and stash it away. I’m rubbish at saving so this really helps me.
Club together with other family members to buy presents.
buy throughout the year to spread the cost and always seek a discount code
look out for discount codes online is my tip
I always compare prices before buying and look at the unit price on shop labels to make sure I am getting the best deal
Search online for discount codes and also keep an eye out for Bogof offers or 3 for 2’s! x
Buy Christmas puddings after each Christmas, they get better with age and never pay full price again
Put a little bit aside each week/month 🙂
Be organised, have a list and always stick to the budget ❤️
Try to buy things during the year and pay monthly for shopping vouchers x
Save money at Christmas by not buying presents for everyone! LOL
stick to a budget
I buy all through the year when I see things in the sale.
Buy through the year when you see a bargain and put aside for christmas
Search for the best prices online, try and find vouchers and use cashback sites like quidco and topcashback to then get some money back to use in the new year
Buy in advance when there’s a sale, even if it’s months before Christmas!
Start early and give homemade gifts from the heart.
scour the january sales and start buying in january and then throughout the year
I start in the January Sales and then buy bits and pieces every week. The I save up all my store card points ie Tesco to help spread the cost of the Christmas Food.
buy through the year so not all in one go
Enter competitions
I shop all year in sales and use discount codes.On line you get a lot of clearance sales and some are free p&p for your first order. I also save all my Tesco clubcard points for my family Christmas dinner
Buy throughout the year, that way there is no big lump sum to spend, and you can make the most of all the sales and offers throughout the year
Some great tips enjoyed reading your post. Save £10 a week.
Buy in the January sales
I save 20p, 5p and copper coins all year to put in the coinstar machine which helps towards food shopping and I save up my Sainsbury and Co_op loyalty points for the same reason.
save £10 a week – and it’s surprising what a nice little amount it adds upto by December.
Me & my mum have been doing this for years (my dad looks after it for us) and we get it all back beginning of December.
Always price check online, look out for bargains and discount codes
Use cash back sites when shopping online to save every time you shop!
Buy any presents when you see them at a good price with voucher codes & free delivery.
Make your Christmas shopping lists as early as possible and save money by looking for bargains on eBay and Amazon.
I set a budget per person and make sure I don’t exceed it! I also start shopping around summer time to ensure it;s not left until the last minute.
Try and pick things up throughout the year in the sales, its not so much of a huge bill at the end of the year
Start early so you have time to look around for the best prices for items.
Buy lots after Christmas for next Christmas in the sales, some great bargains to be had!
Saving a bit every month through the year
Agree a small set limit to spend with friends and family.
I buy gifts my family might like in sales throughout the year and put them aside for birthdays and Christmas x
Dont buy everything new, buy your wrapping paper, tags and bits the week after christmas and put them away for the following year.
Buy presents in the sales
I never stop looking for bargains or buying for Christmas. I do a lot of my Christmas shopping for the next year in the boxing day sales and everytime a big sale comes up I add a bit more on. It means Christmas doesn’t cripple me financially and I don’t worry
Sign up to various FB sites which alert you to special offers. The links to Amazon ones are great and I’m finding loads of toys at reduced prices
Be organised! start early if you can, keep a list of who/what you are buying, keep a note of when sales will be to take advantage of them.
I pick things up early to spread the spending
I buy me wrapping paper and cards just after Christmas. I can save quite a bit. I also buy presents throughout the year and put them away till December. Remember it’s not the cost of the present that matters. It’s buying them something you know they will love.
Set a budget and buy presents throughout the year so its not so daunting.
I always try and use the sales for all of my Christmas presents
Buy things thoughout the year when things are on offer.
Buy things throughout the year, I make a list and tick things of through the year. So when it reaches the Christmas shop there is less to buy.
Start early and make the most of sales throughout the year!
Whilst I’m checking prices I’m also checking my cashback and voucher code apps plus I’ve registered my card with Airtime rewards to max out possible cashback!
Take advantage of any free cash that banks offer for switching your current account, put it aside for Xmas.
We tend to buy for the children only. Takes the stress out of not buying the same things every year.
I start shopping early in December
I start buying presents as early as January and always check out sales and black Friday. Food I start buying from October onward as it”s cheaper and usually by the second week in December we have finished
Buy things throughout the year. We make a list and tick things of throughout the year. So when it reaches the Christmas shop there is less to buy.
Don’t leave it to the last minute, do your research, use cash back sites and dicount codes.
shop around for bargains
To start really early and pick up everything on sale or on offer.
Buy cards and wrapping paper in January sales. Make a gift list and start shopping for gifts early so that you take advantage of sales and special offers. Keep them altogether somewhere safe.
Make a list of exactly what you NEED to buy only. And work from it
i shop around for discount codes and check different sites
Always have a list and stick to it!
Use cashback sites and apps throughout the year then cash in twice a year – summer holidays and Christmas
Use cashback sites and only buy when items are on sale.
Have a Christmas box tucked away and add to it during the year. We have all our store cupboard stuff sorted – £1.20 After Eights and Quality Streets will be £3 now at least, multiply that but all the bits you need and if you can save £1 plus per item that adds up to a fortune!!
Make deals with your friends that you’re not going to buy each gifts that none of you need! At most agree to get each other token gifts, that aren’t going to break the bank xx
Having a list, finding the cheapest deals online then using cashback sites. Also charity shops & eBay, you can find basically new items for so much cheaper
Start early and check out site such as HDUK
I always have a budget for each person I buy for. I also have enough spare incase I have forgotten someone. I also buy wrapping paper and any cards that I need in the January sales ready for the next Christmas, it is surprising how much you can save
I look online for discoiunt codes and cashback offers.
Start shopping as early as possible so you can benefit from the sales throughout the year
by the turkey online muscle foods did a good deal
Save all points on loyalty cards for Christmas food and presents – Sainsbury’s, Boots, Body Shop etc.
If you’re buying online, make sure to check for discounts and install the Honey browser extension which does this automatically! Also leaving items in your basket for a bit also sometimes automatically sends you discount codes to encourage you to checkout.
Price check the items you are buying online to find the cheapest deal.
Look on deal sites for bargains and glitches which mean you often get freebies or mega cheap deals
Use an app like voucher code for extra offers and get little extras in a lower cost shop like b and m
always buy christmas cards and wrapping paper in the sales for the following year
Make an agreement with friends & family that you’ll cap the price of gifts. Or set a rule to only get x number of gifts for each person.
Buy stuff that’s on sale or buy one get free items to save money at Christmas.
Have a list and use comparison sites to get the best deals
I start in January, look for bargains and when I see something that I know someone would like I buy it and put it away x
I put a bit of money to the side for a few months each shopping trip. I also make a list and start buying the none perishables at the end of November onwards so that it costs a bit less to do the main Christmas shop.
I buy things in the boxing day sales ready for next year
Compare prices and use special offers
Do competitions and win the family and friends their Christmas presents for free 🙂
Stick to a budget and start early x
buy something each week
Use cashback sites and still compare prices – even though you can get cashback it doesn’t make it the cheapest option so shop around first and make sure you’re getting a bargain. The other thing is to try and keep an eye on sales throughout the year and don’t buy unnecessarily. You could also consider buying second hand – better for the environment and the purse!
Start early and buy in the sales. Also sign up to cash back sites!
Buy second hand! It’s much better for the environment, great for your wallet, you aren’t contributing to slavery etc, and you can find some awesome vintage/unique things.
Always have Christmas in the back of your mind, so that if you see the perfect present on clearance in June you can grab it!
Always search round for the best prices online
Buy things throughout the year, whenever there are suitable bargains available.
Always check for the sales, especially Black Friday as you can pick up some great bargains.
I try to buy 2 gifts a month all year just to stop it costing loads come Christmas Time. xx
I buy a lot of sweets for the kids in the January sales, I just check to make sure the dates are ok.
start saving in november but don’t buy till mid december when shops start to slash there prices !! x
My tip is never buy the first time you see something – check prices online as I’ve saved loads by doing this
If buying online use a cashback website and look for special offers.
Spend within your means
Plan and get things when they are on offer
Consider buying pre-loved. There are a lot of excellent condition secondhand books, toys and games out there there at a fraction of the cost to buy new plus it’s a very environmentally sustainable way to shop ?
Compare prices online and shop with friends to reduce p&P
But long in advance in the sales. It takes some logistics but works well.
Plan! No last minute panic buying, too easy to overspend.
Make a list early, before November, find the best prices, and stick to it! Easy to get carried away when buying presents when it’s close to Christmas.
I buy a few stamps each week when when I food shop at my local Supermarket, it helps pay for gifts and food at Christmas
Christmas shop in January sales
Shop early! Pay attention to sales throughout the year, especially ones just after christmas!
Use cashback sites wherever possible 🙂
For me, I like to start early so don’t end up over spending panic buying, but need to make sure I don’t forget what I’ve bought and over buy!! I also top up a love to shop card through the year.
The 3 for 2 at Boots is always handy for those relatives who are difficult to buy for! Plus I save up my Nectar points and other loyalty schemes so I can use them on the xmas shopping!
Take advantage of “buy 2 get 1 free” offers, spares can always be used for birthday presents throughout the year.
Keep looking our for offers in and around in your place and follow local news and fabvourite brands.
Buy all year round and in the sales
I spend Christmas day with my partners family, then travel to my family after Christmas… so I always buy my family’s presents in the sales, saves a fortune 🙂
I start my shopping in the January sales onwards. Dont’t purchase packaged sets as more expensive. Save money by making your own biscuits and Christmas cake.
I stick to my list to make sure I won’t spend more than I should
Agree to not buy gifts with lots of extra people… work colleagues for example. No need to exchange with every single person you’ve ever met!
Shop around…both online and offline. Discounter stores are great, you can find some really nice things for gift ideas in these shops.
Just always try and look at as many different stores as possible to compare prices
shop all year round when the shops have their sales, just don’t forget who you have brought for.
Buy throughout the year in sales when you see suitable presents.
I use Monzo to budget throughout the year to make sure I have enough money left by Christmas!
Buy as much as you can online and use cashback sites
I buy what I can in the January sales and presents throughout the year rather than buying it all near Christmas
Buy little bits throughout the year so the cost is spread more evenly.
Turn supermarket points in to vouhers
Buying gifts in the January sales for the following Christmas always helps
Keep your eye out for bargains throughout the year. Hide them away but rememeber where you hide them!
Start early and shop around to check prices.
Research – check prices online to see where you can get best deal, check whether you can get Cashback or a discount code.
I try to spread the cost by shopping for presents throughout the year. It doesn’t always happen but I do try! It really helps if you can do it.
Places like Argos do vouchers when you spend so much. Use your Loyalty points and research the cheapest places to buy what youre looking for
Compare prices and shop around for the best possible deal
Compare prices online and shop around
I always use cashback websites where possible x
Budget and shop around
Check out charity shops. You can often find brilliant bargains and many new gifts.
Note down when people mention things they would like during the year so you don’t get stuck for ideas and overspending
Cashback websites throughout the year, to use for xmas presents
Take advantage of 2 for 1 offers. Throughout the year I keep my eye out on sales and earmark items as gifts either for birthdays or xmas. Debenhams has a 20-25% sale a couple of times a year
We set budgets for gift giving and I do Secret Santa with my friends. With a budget it means that you know you won’t go over that and you know what you will be spending therefore you can set aside that money in advance!
Make a list of presents and look for Black Friday Deals on them. Buy the cheapest Christmas cards you can find and jazz them up with glitter, tinsel etc.
Start early to get the best bargains!
I also.save all year for vouchers to make it easy to shop nearer the time!!
Shop around for the best offers, make a list so that you don’t overbuy
Already have a list of who you are buying for, gift ideas and how much you plan to spend on each before you go Christmas shopping.
Make a list of who to buy for, how much to spend and ideas on presents to then shop around for the best deal.
Have a plan for what you want to buy and who for, before you go out. It stops you going over budget and buying unnecessary items.
Plan what you need and shop around early, it gives you time to search and wait for special offers and bargains.
Start early to spread the cost and use cashback sites and apps
love to win
Keep a list of what you’ve bought so you don’t forget and buy duplicates
Looks great!
My tip is to buy everything in the sales!
i always look out for 3 for 2s and other offers to save abit of money
To start as early as possible, if you find that perfect gift back in the Summer get it as you may not find it again come Christmas.
We realised that we were just buying things for the sake of it for our family so we had a chat and decided to all go out together for a pre Christmas meal instead, we only buy for the children in the family now and it’s much less stressful!
Make a list to track your spend and what you’ve bought. I buy throughout the year so this saves me duplicating any presents.
I do the money saving jar at the start of each year so that I have enough money to buy things when I want them.
Buy presents throughout the year to avoid rushing, panic buying and being skint in December
I start early in the year and keep note of everything I’ve bought
Use the Supermarket points you have earned throughout the year to buy presents.
But presents throughout the year instead of all before Christmas, there are still some amazing deals on and it saves you rushing and spending your whole pay packet in December!
i look for sales and bargains on sites and in store and buy loads in advance
Check the voucher codes sites first, and use a cashback site
Wrapping presents in Newspaper or tin foil!
Buy it all in the January discount sales for next Christmas!
I always start in the January sales and buy through out the year. I aim to be done by October before shops put the prices up.
shop around online for the cheapest prices and always google to see if there is a special promo / discount code for the website or use cashback sites like quidco
I search out cheap and great deals in sales before the festive period – I make use of old brown paper and maps for funky wrapping paper – I freeze cut prize food in the run up to the festive season and bake a lot of my own
I try and do a lot of my shopping on Black Friday as I made huge savings last year!
Utilise the many sales all year round.
Save money and the environment by wrapping gifts in brown paper.
I start early to the point of buying cards and wrapping paper in the January sales. Then from September I buy at least one item each week (check the sell-by dates) and put them away in my Christmas Box.
Always make a list, a budget and when shopping online use cash back sites and always google for a discount code!
Make a list of presents to buy and stick to it
I agree planning ahead or Christmas spending is so important, setting a budget and writing a list of who you need to buy for is great advice.
Try to get non-descript presents in January sales for the following year!
Shop around and make use of cashback sites and voucher codes to reduce costs as much as possible
Use the January sales to seek out bargains for next year
Be organised, start early and keep to your budget
get a budget for each person you are buying for and stick to it,.
I start buying in January and every time I get paid I buy a few things as everything is a lot cheaper through the year than it is at Christmas time!
We don’t celebrate Christmas
Buy in the sales all year round
only buy for nearest and dearest it quickly can get out of hand!
Definitly shop around
I start buying earlier in the year – and also keep a list of what I’ve bought in the past!
Get creative and make some DIY Christmas presents! There’s some great online tutorials for things like handmade jewellery, candles, soaps and recipes in a jar mix 🙂
Start buying in the January sales, always set a budget per person and stick to it 🙂
have a budget in mind and stick to it
Buy items early in sales.
I buy in the sales and offers during the year
I buy in advance looking out for the best deals, so I’m not forced to buy something expensive, or pay expensive postal costs later on
Internet shopping and finding the cheapest deals possible! What would I do without the internet??!!
I buy through the year as and when I see good deals, it saves money and stress
Plan ahead, buy in advance when you spot a good deal and enter competitions for vouchers that can help with the Christmas shop.
As soon as Christmas is over start saving imeadiatly to take the worry out of the next one. Use your double up points in Tesco or Sainsbury’s on toys. Shop around on the internet.
I compare prices online to find the best price.
Start as early as possible. I always look out for Sale items throughout the year and stash them away.
Think about what you want to buy and start shopping early so you can get the best prices
i try to make it less about gifts in general.
my friends and I grout for a meal instead of buying loads of gifts. I buy half price cards from clintons in the new year and any other christmas decorations etc i might need.
I always try and hold out for Black Friday and when the toy shops do half price or 3 for 2 sales, if course you run the risk of not getting something by waiting but touch wood that’s not happened to me yet
I start my shopping early, prices are much lower for some items pre November
Use topcashback for all of your online purchases xx
Itry an buy one present a week in the run up to Christmas and spread the cost
buy in the sales throughout the year
Start early, picking up bargains as you go, but make sure you keep a list of what you’ve bought and who it’s for, so you dont accidentally overspend! Also cashback sites are brilliant, especially for more expensive presents!
If you shop online, use a cashback website and check how much is being offered on the different cashback sites before purchasing.
Don’t buy necessary gifts, agree a spending limit and stick to it.
Online, compare prices.
Write a list and stick to it
Look out for online events a few months before, ie boots extra points and then convert these points into extra presents!
Buy during sake times throughout the year.
Look out for suitable Sales items.
A secret santa between the adult family members or group of friends saves money and is great fun too.
Collect as many vouchers and discount codes that you can
Keep an eye on the various sales/discounts on different shops if you have something specific you want to buy
Set a total budget and then set how much you want to spend out of that budget on each particular person (so more spent on others maybe)
Set a budget and stick to it! x
Buy presents earlier in the year
Watch Martin Lewis he knows when all the offers start
Start about October, but if we see bargains as early as January we get them and put them away
Shop on black Friday and in the sales
i always start early and try to buy most things in the sales!
Shop around for the best price consider black friday deals and use a cashback website
Shop around, search both online and in stores because prices change all the time x
put aside a little money each month to avoid paying it all in one go in december
put aside a little money each month to avoid having to pay it all in december
Save up supermarket loyalty bonuses and shop all through the year in sales and put things away for presents
Making my own gifts
Start shopping early
Shop around, buy in the sales and little homemade gifts often mean more and cost less ?
Shop seasonal sales during the year
Shop during the year in the sales and put the goods away for Christmas gifts
Start early and shop around x
Don’t buy anything online until you’ve checked for discount codes and cashback deals.
Think about making gift hampers for family members rather than buying expensive presents. I saved so much last year by doing this. A couple of small presents in a shoe box wrapped in pretty paper or a wicker basket with celephane.
The best way that I find is to start early in the year so that the cost is spread evenly over 10/12 months.
We get a sealed tin and put money in it throughout the year, we have no idea how much is in there this year, but last year it was £600
We pick up gifts throughout the year which helps so there’s not too much to buy in the run up to Christmas
I use all my loyalty points including nectar and boots to make it easier.
Space it out throughout the year, taking advantage of any sales and discounts as and when you see them.
Shop around for the best deals
Start early and buy bargains as and when you see them. Keep a list and tick off as you go along. Add things to Amazon wishlist so you can see when there are price drops.
Buy in the sales all year through
Shop in the January sales for the following Christmas!
Start early and a little put past each month soon adds up
Shop early and do secret santa.
make a list and shop on black friday
Start shopping early
shop around for deals – i always go on deal websites in the run ip to christmas. also use discount codes.
Start shopping early and make sure to price match everything
Throughout the year I do skimming on my bank account and it’s a great way to save to Xmas! Once or twice a week I check my balance and transfer any odd amount (so making it a round number) into a separate savings account. If money is tight, I transfer to make it a round pound at least. It really adds up over time and you don’t miss it!
Set a budget from the beginning and write a list of who you need to buy for – AND STICK TO IT!
No junk/novelty gifts. Bad for the planet and your pocket
Try to buy throughout the year whenever sales are on
Start early so you can get the best offers!
I definitely agree that preparation is the key…
After the kids go back to school in September I write a list of everyone im buying for & a budget for the kids as they usually change their mind half a dozen times…
I’m lucky as I live right by a Tesco extra, so if I pop in for a few things I purchase a few savings stamps as Tesco have a great range of toys, electricals & clothing, then I keep my eyes out as they regularly have 20% off certain gift cards, last year I brought my friend a £50 dining out gift card as they don’t have much money so they really appreciated a meal out & I saved a tenner with thr20% off… Look out for Smyths, Argos & Tesco big you sale… Smyth do £10 off a £50 spend , Tesco selected toys half price & Argos 3 for 2…. But only buy things they’ll play with as even if you’ve saved a few quid , if they don’t play with it, it’s a huge waste of money.
I always do a lot of research on the internet and usually find some great deals. I’ve already bought some great Elemis gifts for my friends at a fantastic price!
I will try and make most of my gifts this year!
I like making gifts such as food hampers and flavoured vodkas and liqueurs
My tip has to be to check prices in different shops for the same item as sometimes you can save some money that way
I do most of my shopping online so i am not tempted by Instore displays x
stick to a budget
Always set a budget and stick to it strictly.
Shop all year round in the sales.
Don’t get too carried away when getting into the christmas spirit! Set a budget and stick to it!
Start early, shop around and look on deal sites.
I agree an amount with my hubby how much we are going to spend on each other and try to stick to that. Just try and not get carried away with buying too much and remember, the amount you spend doesn’t equate to how much you love the person.
Write a list of what you want and stick to it. Also get it earlier as it tends to be cheaper.
i pick up bits all year round so not as much to buy at christmas
My family all plan a day out instead of Christmas presents
Buy large presents on Black Friday – you can save so much money!
Write a list of what type of present you want to get for each person, and stick to that list.
Children don’t need a mountain of presents…
Just get:
Something they want
Something they need
Something to wear
Something to read.
Spend your time and love on them instead ❤️
Look in the sales throughout the year!
With regard to my children we have a secret area where we store any presents we pick up during the year. We also use favourite sweets or chocolates as extra presents
Aside from Black Friday, I’d suggest buying well in advance as the prices are hiked just because Christmas is on the way.
Leave it all to the missus!
Homemade gifts
Start early and take advantage of deals – stuff is usually cheaper in October and November rather than last minute December :o)
These are some great tips it can be some ash to go over budget. I try and shop or at least save a little all year around.
Buy fewer presents! In our family we all agree to only buy gifts for the kids, saves a fortune!
I shop in the sales right after christmas. I always get cards and wrap so cheap. Then i shop for gifts in sales all year round.
Look for voucher codes
When you have finished and bought everything you need to/that is on your list – stop looking!! Those little “extras” really add up and really aren’t necessary.
Use cashback sites
Put a little money away every month and at the end of the year, you’ll have money to spend at Christmas!
I start shopping in September and whenever I see a deal I put it in the Christmas box xx
Spread the cost throughout the year and shop around in different shops to get the best deals
My tip would be not to be tempted to buy more just because it’s on sale, you might end up spending more than anticipated. Make a budget and stick to it.
Write a list of who you need to buy for and tick off when you have brought them
that way you can save overspending on people
Keep a small notebook on you with names sizes wants and buy around the year. As long as you remember where you have hidden the stuff!
I get stocking presents throughout the year from The Works, B&M, Wilkos, & from charity shops. I get brand new, unused books, games & toys for a fraction of the price!
Make a list and stick to it. Use comparison sites. If going to actual shops, only go in the ones on your list and only get what is on your list.
Use cashback websites
Stick to the list don’t get distracted do it online as much as possible :0)
don’t celebrate it!
Get all next year’s cards and wrapping paper in the sales just after this christmas
Yellow stickers all the way.
If you can save up all year, £5 a week is around £200 at the beginning of Dec. Use Top cash back sites, and controversial, but never ask people what they want! You choose!
Start saving money all through the year
Plan what you are going to buy rather than panic buy. Pick something up every week now to help spread the cost.
start shopping early and use outlet shopping
Start food shopping for Christmas now and spread the cost. For example Christmas puddings are already on sale.
I started I. January sales as Boots does 75% off and shops like tesco reduce their crackers, wrapping paper and cards to next to nothing saves me a fortune.
Wait for the post Christmas sales and go and get cut price cards and wrapping paper . Some great deals to be had !
Make a list early use black friday etc to get the items on the list when cheapest
I start buying little bits from September!
I keep a list on my phone of what I have bought for each person so I don’t forget and buy them extra,and stick to a budget. Just because I love them it doesn’t mean that they want me to be skint.
Have a budget for each person you’re buying for – if you find a bargain for an item, give yourself the saving rather than just buying more
Start early, use lots of websites to compare.
Buy next years cards, wrapping and crackers in the sales. There are always loads left at a fraction of the original price.
Stick to a list for everyone, search out all the offers BOGOf, half price,look in charity shops for unused pressies
Buy a present for the family, rather than each individual person. Great for your siblings and there kids.
Start buying early and price check online to get the best deals.
Make a list for each person then you know what your looking for
Use price comparison sites! You can save so much money doing this instead of just shopping at your old faithfuls!
I find shopping on black Friday really helps me save money!
I always use cash back sites and compare prices online.
Shop around don’t just buy the first thing you see
Start your shop on New Years day
I buy wrapping paper, cards, gift tags, decorations, special sticky tape and crackers in the January sales and that saves such a lot of money. It’s really nice to be able to go to the cupboard when you need those things.
Have a good home clearout and then do a car boot sale
Shop early so you can spread out the cost – save up vouchers over the year too or points on cards so you can use them at Christmas
Plan. Don’t just buy stuff because you think they may like it or it is on special offer, think of what they really want or need then look for the best deal you can find. I’ve saved loads buy not just buying without planning first.
I ask people for ideas throughout the year and then start buying from september onwards
I use the “notes” facility on my phone, i make a list of everyone i need to buy for and any ideas when im in their company i quickly add to my list on my phone, then i can tick the list off as i go and always have my list with me. I also buy 3 for 2 and split between people
Use cash back sites
I’m signed up to just about every voucher / saving / cashback scheme going! I try to get most of it online so I can use coupon codes, etc, to knock some money off.
SHOP ON BLACK FRIDAY
this tip is for january next year – when shops reduce everything down to the bare knuckles, take advantage, and buy in advance / also, fruit cake, mince pies and other treats are much cheaper (and nicer) home made – get the kids involved, they love it x
I find asking people early on exactly what they would like is helpful and can yield some great answers, rather than buying what you think they’d like.
Use cashback websites and search for additional discount codes. Agree with your family and friends not to waste money on tat that won’t be used after the Christmas period.
Plan the menus in advance and buy the food when it is on offer and freeze
Shop early when things are on offer and in stock
Wait for the offers to come on toys, use voucher codes and discounts. Download shopping apps which give you items for free or money off from supermarkets (beer, ciders, wine, chocolates) are good things to add into a homemade hamper.
Start early and make a list and stick to it (though I must admit I always go overboard as I think I haven’t got the children enough to find huge piles once I put it all together ?)
Start early and compare all prices. Apply any voucher codes and use cashback
Have a list and try to get as many gifts in the January sales, I save loads this way every year
Always google for discount codes when shopping online, it can help save a fair bit of money
Shop all year round so you don’t rush and spend too much because you can’t find what you want at a good price.
If shopping online always see if you can find a voucher code first.
I shop all year round taking advantage of 70% sales, if a specific item I will look around for the best price, cashback etc
always look on wowcher and groupon because you can sometimes nab a right bargain
If you are travelling book train tickets at the earliest opportunity.
Watch for bargains at Amazon and other online sites throughout the year. Have a list of people you give gifts to with ideas and tick off when you get something.
I save £2 coins all year round for the festive season. It actually seems like Christmas is almost “free” as it mounts up so quickly! x
My Grandma always had a present cupboard and she would buy gifts randomly throughout the year (including straight after xmas in the sales) and store them there to keep it cheaper.
outlet stores! tk maxx is great for presents
Shop around including online. Buying early before prices rise.
My best tip is to be organised, have a list, look throughout the year and if you can buy in the sales.
I wander the sales aisles and I look on amazon as well to get a good price for what we want xx
Set a budget and stick to it, don’t just buy things because you think the present pile doesn’t look big enough.
Enter competitions. Saves me a fortune.
Buy things in the sales throughout the year when possible
I have an account just for gifts and whenever there is a sale I use it to purchase them. Saves me a small fortune.
I buy jar items such as pickled onions / chutney etc ahead of time to spread the cost out a bit – I only try to buy the fresh items closer to Christmas
If its relating to Christmas shopping for gifts then buy in the January sales works out cheaper then put them back for next Christmas
Research prices, if someone requests something in particular then have a look around, sometimes if somewhere has a sale, it still may be cheaper elsewhere.
Shop online and don’t get sucked in that the kids need new Pj’s and Christmas Eve boxes etc
I save all my points from different shops all year round and use them to buy some gifts.
Start early, looks for offers and buy in the sales.
Mine is to start early and things in the sales all year round, I’ve almost finished my shopping now.
Stick to budgets and wait to watch for offers
Use price comparion sites, and then look for discount codes and/or cashback sites to save even more money.
Shop around to find the best deals and use up any old giftcard you have lying around
I buy all my cards, wrapping paper, tags, crackers, etc in the January sales
If you can find discount codes through google, and also go through cashback websites like Quidco, especially for more expensive presents.
My advice is start in the January sales! Grab cards, wrapping paper, crackers, tags etc 😉
Shop around for bargains and discounts
Start buying items months before, look for discounts, and items on sale and use vouchers and options for free delivery.
Start early and make a list x
Plan ahead – look out for sales ! You’ll save a fortune
Take advantage of the 3 for 2 offers, you can often get a great bargain!
Start early! Little and often works wonders and it always helps to write it all down!
Find the sales and discount codes
I am a crafter so like to make as many personal presents myself as I can.
I buy all year, in the sales, always google for discount codes, comping is also a great way to win toys! 🙂
Make an agreement with your friends & family not to spend too much on gifts for each other and have a spending limit agreed. This year I will be giving edibles, toiletries and homemade items 🙂
use sales and offers shop around and stick to your budget
Shop early when things are on offer and only buy what you actually need or is on your list.
Discount voucher codes and cashback sites
Hello, my best tip for saving money on Christmas present shopping is probably to have a budget and stick to it.
I have a spreadsheet from 3 months before where I track prices up until black Friday including setting up google alerts for the items cross referenced with the words sale, if any come at a low price before Black Friday I buy them in and always save money. Google alerts are the key!
I buy most of my gifts online and use cashback websites to earn some money back
I usually buy on a budget in the August sales
Shop around, sometimes the exact same product is cheaper somewhere else
buy when you see the perfect gift, even if Christmas is months away, rather than leaving it to the last minute and spending too much on something that isn’t exactly right
Start early. . Pick up bargains throughout the year, we do this for our daughter. I also make jars of chutneys and curds which I give as gifts to colleagues and friends which is very low cost but they appreciate it.
Always use supermarket compare apps and take advantage of the 3 for 2 offers x
Only buy for children and make sure everyone else does the same
Make a list, after doing your research, and stick to it. Also, try not to leave anything until the last minute, you will regret it…
I save every month with a local church savings club and I also save with Park For vouchers. I set up a direct debit with them and the vouchers arrive in October.
Save throughout the year stick to the Budget and only buy what you need.
Shop online and use cashback sites and comparison sites.
Look around in lots of shops and write down the price of the items and compare which shop is cheaper to buy the items from.
Start in January sales for wrapping paper, cards and stocking fillers
Use Quidco for cashback!
Shop around and don’t feel pressure to buy lots for everyone. Children also do not need massive piles of presents.
Shop early and take advantage of sales
Buy when in sale, or 3-2 to save costs if full price
re-use last years wrapping paper for wrapping up the new presents. cheaper and saves paper.
Look for bargains for presents during the year
Stick to your budget
Don’t have children
I look for bargains on Black Friday to put away.
I’m entering competitions to try to win some gifts!
I save points on all my store cards all year and spend them all at Christmas x
Shop all year around especially when the sales are on!
Buy everything through a cashback website and also I build up a pot slowly through the year so it feels like less of a big deal
Set a budget and stick to it.
i buy things from september onwards that will last to spread the cost
Start early looking for bargains, and use cashback sites on the internet
I always compare prices and with Amazon I add items I like to my list and I check it daily and then it tells me if the price has dropped.
Use price comparison sites to get a good deal and keep an eye open for sales and offers.
Use a cashback credit card and use your loyalty cards and voucher codes.
Watch out for retailers who offer free gifts with purchases. OK, they’re not really free but, if you are buying their products anyway, wait until they have free gift offers in the run-up to Christmas and buy then.
That’s easy – we have am agreement and do not buy or give presents
Have a budget for each person and stick to it
I save all the free ones from the BOGOFs – come Christmas I have a tub full of sugar, tea, trifles, loo rolls – leaves more money for treats!
I go to Morrisons at 8 am and fill the freezer for very little money.
Try Boots . They usually have ” buy two get one free ” offers , and you can colllect generous points on their Advantage card .
Use cashback websites when purchasing online.
I get things throughout the year and look for money off voucher codes and deals which help for the kids toys
I keep a list of everything I buy and the cost to keep me on budget
shop around and if online plenty discount codes