Christmas is one of the most expensive times of the year, especially if you have children or a large family. Being able to save money to ensure that everyone has a great holiday season, and that you don’t go into any unnecessary debt, can seem like an uphill struggle.
While some stores and sites may have sales on throughout the year that you can make the most of, there are also other ways in which you can save money as the Christmas period draws ever closer. Consider adding these to the way that you manage your Christmas saving and purchasing can make a big difference, particularly if you have lots of mouths to feed.
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Quit smoking
One of the best and healthiest ways to save money is to stop smoking. This can be incredibly difficult, particularly if you smoke a lot, or have done for many years. Switching to vaping (see 88vape.com for options) can help a lot, or by speaking to your doctor for smoking cessation advice.
Looking at how much you have spent can give you a rough idea of the savings you could stand to make, which can really help bulk out your wallet, as well as lead you to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Buy a bit each month
You don’t need to wait for December to start your Christmas shopping. By stocking up on certain items at different points of the year, you can spread out the cost more.
For food items, this may involve buying produce a few months earlier, then storing it in the freezer until the time comes.
You can also take advantage of sales that come around in stores. For example, this year Black Friday is on the 27th of November, giving you over a month to save up for discounted items, and then just under another month to pick up a few last minute bits if necessary.
Cut back
Rather than pushing yourself, saving every penny and spending it all on Christmas, it can also be a good idea to consider a more frugal holiday. You don’t need to spend hundreds or thousands on gifts and food.
A couple of nice presents and a warm meal, combined with some quality time together as a family, will mean so much more than a heap of toys that will, in the coming months, lay forgotten at the back of the toy box. This can also help to teach children a bit of compassion and humility, as opposed to simple want and greed.
Spending time as a family, and learning to budget efficiently, are two important parts of Christmas. Beyond the wrapping paper, turkey, and tree, there is an opportunity to spend a few days with your nearest and dearest, without work or school responsibilities needing to be considered first.
Making the most of this time can create some wonderful memories that you will all cherish, and these are things that money can’t buy.
Feature image credit: Annie Spratt / Unsplash
