How to Save Money Buying Christmas Gifts
One of the most important things to remember when buying Christmas presents is to budget properly. Without a budget, it's easy to overspend during this time of year. To create a budget, look at your income and your essential bills, such as energy, council tax, and mortgage or rent payments. Once you've done this, you can create a shopping plan.
Limit the number of gifts per loved one
According to a study from the University of Toledo in Ohio, you should limit the number of gifts you give each loved one to four per holiday season. This will prevent the holiday season from becoming too materialistic, help you stick to your budget, and raise kids who appreciate what they have.
Some families practice the "three-gift rule" during the holidays. This rule is based on the three gifts that Christ received on Christmas Day. Most parents consider this a magic number. There are other rules you can follow, though, like getting the child something they need, wear, or read, and a surprise gift.
According to Phillip Christenson, a financial analyst, you should limit the number of gifts that you buy per loved one. To avoid this mistake, make sure that you give ample time for discussion with your loved one. If you are buying gifts for children, explain to them why you've decided to limit the number of gifts per person. This way, they'll understand why you aren't buying more gifts.
Aliano first implemented this rule when her eldest child was eight years old. Now, her children are four, seven, and twelve, and they're all thrilled on Christmas morning! Despite the number of gifts that are purchased every year, Aliano makes sure to buy something that will make them happy. She uses a spreadsheet to plan the gifts and starts planning late in the summer.
Re-gifting
Re-gifting gifts does not have to be a secret. There are some steps you can take to make the process as seamless as possible. For example, if you receive a gift that is still wrapped, remove the wrapping paper from it and re-wrap it using your own wrapping paper. Similarly, if the gift is an item that you don't want or need anymore, ask a friend if they would like to receive it.
Re-gifting is considered a socially acceptable practice. It is estimated that three out of four Americans re-gifted at least four presents last year. However, re-gifting presents should only be done when you are sure the recipients will appreciate it. In general, bad presents should never be re-gifted among the same social circle.
Re-gifting can save you time and money. In addition to helping you cut back on the cost of holiday gifts, it also helps reduce clutter. However, before re-gifting, remember the sentiments of the original giver and the eventual recipient. The original giver likely took time and thought in choosing the gift. As a result, the eventual recipient may expect the same thoughtfulness.
Re-gifting is a great way to save money, avoid clutter and keep your home clutter-free. If done correctly, re-gifting can be a simple, effective way to save money on Christmas gifts. Just remember to consider the needs and desires of the recipients and follow a few simple rules.
Recycling
Reusing and recycling materials is a great way to save money buying Christmas gifts. It's also an excellent way to protect the environment. Each year, about $7 billion in plastic wrapping material and gift bags are used to wrap gifts. In addition to the waste, these materials are also difficult to recycle.
There are many ways to make gifts that are eco-friendly, such as giving handmade gifts instead of purchasing them. These gifts can be made from recycled materials, such as fabric. You can make aprons, placemats, scarves, potholders, and even picnic blankets. Even pens and cosmetics can be recycled. Some companies, including Kiehl's, Origins, and The Writing Instruments Recycling Programme, run recycling schemes.
Another way to save money buying Christmas gifts is to avoid buying disposable items. Avoid plastic bags, plates, and other items that are disposable. Shop in thrift stores to find items that are reusable. Try choosing unbleached compostable products, which break down quicker than conventional disposables. Avoid buying batteries, which leak toxic metals into the soil. Using rechargeable batteries instead can help you save money this festive season.
Using recycled Christmas wrapping paper can also save money. Instead of using plastic wrapping, consider using brown parcel paper or decorating with leftover wrapping paper. You can use recycled paper for your gift tags.
Buying in advance
One of the best ways to save money on Christmas gifts is to start buying early. This way, you will be able to take advantage of seasonal sales throughout the year. These sales can include January sales, the end of the summer sale, and Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.
Shopping early will also save you money, as you can spread out your spending over the year, marking off gifts on your list before the holiday season. Also, it means that you won't forget to buy a gift by the time Christmas comes around. Shopping early also allows you to take advantage of online coupons and rebate programs, which can really help you save money on your gifts.
Buying early will also ensure that you have the best selection of products. If you wait until the last minute, you might find that you are unable to find a particular item in the size or color that you need. You may even have to settle for a product that you don't really like. Plus, you will waste time running around to different stores.
Before you start shopping, make a list of all the people you plan to buy gifts for. Then, write down their names and a rough estimate of how much you'd like to spend for each of them. Once you have this list, you can add up your total budget and figure out how to divide it. You can limit the number of gifts you buy per person or limit the amount of gifts that you give to each loved one. You can also ask them what they like, so that you'll know which items to purchase for them.
Post-Christmas sales
If you're on a budget, post-Christmas sales are an excellent way to save money on holiday gifts. You can score great deals on home goods, jewelry, tools, and personalized gifts. In addition, you can buy kitchen appliances and home essentials at great prices. During this time, you can also find great deals at retailers like Home Depot, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Macy's.
Many retailers hold post-Christmas sales for winter clothing, electronics, toys, and food. Food items like baked goods and holiday candy often go on sale. These sales last several days or even a week. But it's important to go early and plan ahead so you can take advantage of the deep discounts. Remember that some items can be hot and sell out quickly, so be sure to buy them earlier rather than later!
After Christmas, retailers like Target and Kohl's often put their holiday items on clearance. Typically, you can save up to 70% on holiday items. Most of these items will move by January 1, so it's important to check early. Many of these stores have clearance sales, which can help you save hundreds of dollars over the course of the next year.
After-Christmas sales can also be great opportunities to purchase gifts for yourself. Many retailers have deep discounts on winter coats, winter boots, and other warm items. You might also be able to get a deal on winter slippers.
