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Ready. Set. Christmas.
Easy ways to save this Christmas
Trimming the gift list.
It’s easy to go overboard with present buying but trimming your gift list is an easy way to cut costs. Just talk it through with friends and family first so there’s no awkwardness on the big day.
- Ask your family or friends what they want if you aren’t sure. If they say not to worry about gifts, take them at their word.
- Bear in mind lots of family and friends will be facing similar pressures.
- Many people will value the time they spend with you over the festive season far more than the value of any present under the tree.
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Cut the cost of prezzies
Beyond shopping around for the best deals, there are a number of other ways to save.
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01
Don't buy anything without checking for voucher codes first.
Download a reputable browser extension like Dealfinder and Honey and you shouldn’t have to google deals before you shop – the best discount could automatically be applied at checkout.
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02
Organise a whip-round.
Get together to treat teachers, coaches and activity leaders – you’ll all spend less individually, and the person will still get a gift they’ll appreciate.
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Think about homemade gifts.
You don’t have to be arty or a good cook. Chocolate truffles are dead easy – just get some nice gift boxes for a professional finish.
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Avoid prank gifts.
Focus your spending on gifts people will really value rather than ‘joke’ gifts that quickly become clutter.
Save on Christmas food
Organising Christmas dining can be pricey, consider these ways to save when heading out to the shops.
Get crafty this Christmas
It’s all too easy to spend a fortune on wrapping, gift tags and so on. Making your own can be good fun and it adds a personal touch.
You never know, it might even turn into a new Christmas tradition.
- A roll of brown paper might look dull, but you can easily liven it up with crafty stuff like stamps, ribbons and stickers.
- The same goes for DIY Christmas decorations. You might be surprised at what you can make and there’s plenty of inspiration online. Think wreaths, tree ornaments, and stockings.
- There are lots of ways to brighten your home on a budget. Check out this Christmas DIY's On A Budget video or DIY Christmas Decorations video for some creative ideas.
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Switch up your festive plans
Christmas markets. Illuminated gardens. Wreath-making evenings. There’s a never-ending list of fun excuses to go out over the festive season, no longer just a night out in town or a trip to the panto. These attractions are all after our attention – and money.
Rather than going somewhere because it’s what you always do, this year talk to friends and family to prioritise what you’ll enjoy most. Then look at ways to trim back together.
Easy switch one
Swap a trip to see a festive film at the cinema for an extra special movie night at home with friends.
Easy switch two
Swap a pricey dinner with friends in a restaurant for sharing platters or nibbles in your favourite bar.
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Get talking
There are so many ways to save money on everything from presents to New Year celebrations, but one of the most helpful things can actually be to just talk to your loved ones.
It might feel a bit embarrassing sharing your concerns with friends and family, but you may well find they have similar worries too. And even if they don’t, they won’t want to add to your stress.
Together it will be much easier to come up with a plan to celebrate Christmas, without spending too much or storing up problems for the New Year.