A recent survey suggests that almost a third of us predict we’ll go into debt this Christmas. It’s the same old story… we chuck money away like it’s water over the festive season. But is there really any need to go so mad with your cash?
How to stop yourself spending like a person possessed? Here’s a few ways to curb your Christmas spending this year and save money on the whole kit and caboodle:
-
set a budget and stick to it
-
write a detailed list of everything you need then cross off the things you can do without. And cut quantities to a generous but reasonable amount so you avoid waste
-
do your Christmas shopping online – it tends to be more difficult to impulse buy when you’re shopping remotely
-
be realistic when buying for the kids
-
let the family know you’re going to spend responsibly this Christmas and ask everyone to spend less on you this year. Spread the word this week before the big shopping spree sets in. It’s the thought that counts
-
if you’re a Christian, Christmas is supposed to be about religion. If you’re not religious, it’s meant to be about spending time with people you love – a festival to celebrate winter’s half way point - not spending vast wads of dosh willy nilly. Either way, feel the love instead of feeling an enormous hole in your bank balance!
-
avoid the turkey blues. If you’re doing turkey get one the right size instead of a huge bird that’ll feed everyone for a week, much of which you’ll probably waste
-
use discount codes to buy gifts wherever possible, taking advantage of slashed prices and special offers
