Does the thought of holiday shopping make your wallet cringe and your stress levels soar?
Christmas shopping can be a whirlwind of excitement and stress. It’s so easy to get swept up in the joy of giving that we forget about the strain it can put on our wallets. I’ve been there—standing in the checkout line, wondering how I managed to blow past my budget (again). Over the years, I’ve learned a few simple strategies that help me stay on track without sacrificing the fun of finding the perfect gift. Whether you’re trying to stretch your dollars or just keep the holidays a little more stress-free, these tips will help you save money and keep the season merry and bright.
1. SET (and don't forget) YOUR BUDGET
It’s always the thought that counts. If you’re thinking of going into debt to buy presents, maybe think again. Instead of buying more than you can afford, consider picking a maximum spending amount, money that you already have or can save up ASAP.
2. MAKE A LIST CHECK IT TWICE
List everyone you’re buying gifts for, and how many gifts you’re planning for each person. Whether it’s for your friends, co-workers, or children, consider listing your gift recipients in order of importance. Then, assign a total dollar amount you’ll spend on each, including wrapping and shipping.
If you exceed your overall budget before you allot cash for recipients further down the list, you have a choice: Reduce how much you spend on people at the top of the list or skip buying for those toward the end. You could still give them gifts; you just need to get creative. For example, you could pick up a gift at a local swap, get crafty with items you already have, or regift something you own that they’d love (I won’t tell).
3. SHAKE UP GROUP GIVING EXCHANGES
Buying something for everyone in a family or friend group drives up costs fast. Instead, consider a gifting game such as Secret Santa or White Elephant, where each person buys for just 1 recipient in the group. Another cheap holiday gift idea: Favorite Things, where each person brings, lets say three of their favorite things priced at a set dollar amount to give to others in the group. Each person goes home with three of others’ faves. Bonus: Lower-priced alternatives may be more fun than the traditional everyone-buys-for-everyone exchanges.
4. STAY ON TASK WHILE SHOPPING
Shopping and buying are different. Buying is purchasing an item you’ve already picked out. Shopping is wandering (or clicking around) a store. There’s nothing wrong with shopping, but if you want to save money on holiday gifts, stick with buying just what’s on your list. That could help you avoid overspending, especially amidst the many temptations retailers promote during the holidays.
5. COMPARE PRICES
Consider using free third-party apps that help track prices over time and alert you if your desired item goes on sale, or do a reverse image search of the product you’re eyeing. Apps will hunt for similar-looking items across the internet and let you know how much lookalikes (or the exact same item) cost elsewhere. If you start holiday shopping early, you could wait to see if any gifts’ prices drop.
6. PAUSE BEFORE BUYING
7. BE FLEXIBLE ABOUT WHAT YOU BUY
Unless a loved one specifies the gift they want, keep an open mind and explore categories that are often discounted during the holiday season. For example, look for deals on items like cozy blankets, tech gadgets, or even seasonal gift sets. Sometimes, the perfect gift isn’t what you originally planned but what you stumble upon while browsing great sales. Staying flexible not only saves you money but also opens up opportunities to find unique, thoughtful gifts you might not have considered otherwise!
8. SHOP ON “GREEN MONDAY”
Not to be confused with Cyber Monday right after Thanksgiving, Green Monday is the second Monday of December and could offer some of the best sales of the season. Additionally, several retailers and brands offer bigger discounts, the first Friday after Thanksgiving. Just confirm any so-called sales with a price tracker to be sure you’re really getting a deal.
9. USE YOUR OLD GIFT CARDS
DID YOU KNOW….???
That in 2024, the average American had nearly $244 of unspent gift cards, vouchers, and store credits. See if you could buy presents with yours, especially if these gift cards are for places you normally don’t visit. They could be the perfect gift too Way to patch your holiday budget and score a gift for essentially free.
10. SHOP IN UNCONVENTIONAL PLACES
Heading to social media, yard sales, and swap forums could help you find gifts on the cheap, or even for nothing. Plus, kids might not recognize the difference between a new and used present. Also, consider hitting up thrift stores and resale sites. You might find vintage items there that can be less expensive than new gifts and more special.
11. SKIP EXPENSIVE WRAPPING
Do you remember the wrapping of any gifts you’ve received? Probably not. Check out dollar stores for potential deals on gift bags, wrapping paper, ribbon, and tags. Set up your own Budget-Friendly Gift Wrapping StationBudget-Friendly Gift Wrapping Station @Home. You could also get in the habit of saving the bags and ribbon from gifts you receive. That way you’ll be able to wrap next holiday season’s presents for free—and do the environment a solid too.
12. GET AHEAD OF POSTAGE
Conclusion
I know how overwhelming holiday shopping can feel, but with a little planning and a few smart choices, you can make it through without breaking the bank. Remember, it’s not about how much you spend but the thought and love behind each gift. Take your time, stick to your budget, and don’t forget to enjoy the season—after all, Christmas is about more than just the presents under the tree. And if you need a little extra inspiration, be sure to check out my favorite tips for wrapping gifts without overspending. Wishing you a joyful, budget-friendly holiday season!
Before You Go
As always, I appreciate your visit, comments, and shares here on the blog! I’d love it if you also follow along with me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook so you won’t miss any of my inspiration and ideas.
QUESTION:
Are you already a subscriber of The City Cottage? If not, sign up below to be the first to receive exclusive DIYs, home styling tips, organizing guides, and free printables straight to your inbox. Enjoy seasonal inspiration, budget-friendly projects, and early access to special deals and promotions. Let’s create a home you truly love together!
My Gift To You…..
Leave a Reply