With the holidays fast approaching, many of us are looking forward to time spent with family and, of course, presents under the Christmas tree. However, plenty of us are also heading into the holidays with a fair bit of anxiety as we try to figure out how we’ll be affording those gifts.
The first thing you need to do is meticulously plan what you’ll be buying your loved ones for the holidays. Just like with a budget, list out whom you’ll be buying presents for and how much you’ll be spending. This should come even before you decide what you’ll get them. Otherwise, you’re vulnerable to all kinds of tempting offers at the mall or online.
One especially smart way to save money is by purchasing gift cards at discounted prices. Countless people receive gift cards every year for businesses they never plan on visiting. Nowadays, though, they can go online and sell them for cash. The companies that buy them then turn around and sell them to you at a discount. While you won’t save hundreds this way, every little bit helps and this is essentially free money.
Another good idea is to head to social media. While you’ll find no lack of ads there during the holiday season, be sure to check in with your favorite companies and brands. They often offer special discounts to those people who are connected to them through Facebook and Twitter.
Look for discount codes and online coupons too. Some are offered for a limited time, but last for the entire year. If you start searching for them now, they could equal big savings as we get closer to Christmas and often on top of the sales prices you’ll be offered.
Don’t let the stress of spending money get you down this holiday season. With the above tips you can put smiles on your loved ones’ faces without paying for it in the New Year.
Source:
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/10-easy-tips-to-save-money-this-christmas/
