Hunt for coupons: There are lots of
online coupon sites – Groupon, Couponcabin.com and Retailmenot.com are just a
few possibilities. Of course, there are lots of Black Friday and Cyber Monday
deals, as well.
Avoid impulse shopping: You have your list. Stick to it. You probably do not need the complete set of lighted reindeer and elves for your front lawn.
Pre-paid cards can help you stick
to your budget.
Simply add whatever you can afford to the card, and use the pre-paid card for your holiday
shopping.
Do not wait for the holiday
season to do your holiday shopping.
Keep your eyes peeled throughout the year for great deals. You may even be able
to finish your shopping long before the shopping insanity even begins.
Like
to go crazy with lights? If so, the electric bill may soar.
Consider LED lights, which use 99 percent less energy than traditional lights.
Speaking
of decorations … Purchase your knickknacks after the holiday. Most stores
have clearance sales and you can find some great deals.
Choose
plastic wisely: If you plan to use a credit card for holiday gifts and other
expenses, do a little research into the best card for your needs. Financial
institutions often offer credit card promotions to help with holiday shopping.
Delegate your dinner menu: Are guests visiting for the holidays? Planning to whip up a big holiday meal? Delegate various menu items to your guests to save on your food bill.
Do
you have a creative flare? If so, you may consider some
clever, hand-made items for those on your gift list. Oftentimes, a thoughtful
hand-made gift is cherished more than expensive presents.
Draw
names: It has become popular to draw names among family members in
order to limit the number of gifts you may need to purchase.
Hit
the garage sales: You may be able to find some terrific gift items at garage
sales.
Save
on postage: Anyone in your family have a flare for technology? You may
consider creating a holiday web page with family photos and a holiday greeting.
Then send a link via social media or email. This could potentially replace your
holiday cards and save a bundle on postage and cards.
Spend a few moments researching cost savings items online.
You will find a bunch of ideas that may save you a ton of money.
