Holiday Shopping Hacks to Spend Less

Holiday Shopping Hacks to Spend Less

 
As Halloween decorations come down and bright, festive lights go up, it’s clear that the holiday season is upon us. While the holidays are a time for giving, the added expense of shopping for gifts can wrack up a hefty bill. This year in particular, many of us are looking for ways to spend less and save more. We want to prep you with some savvy tips to help you shop smart and stay safe this season.
 
Make a Plan and Stick to it
The first and most important step of shopping on a budget is to make a plan. Everyone’s budget will look different, but asses for yourself how much you can spend on gifts this season before you go shopping. An easy way to start creating your budget is by contemplating the three W’s:

 

• Who do I need to buy gifts for?

• What can I spend on each gift?

• Where can I buy this gift and stay within my price range?

 
Now you can create your shopping list! It’s much easier to stick to a budget when you know exactly what gifts you’re getting which people. Make a plan and stick to it!
 
Shop the Sales
With the holidays around the corner, the big sales are starting to pour in, which means the time to shop is now! Take advantage of the significant price reductions and try to get your big-ticket items on blowout sales like Black Friday weekend and Cyber Monday.
 
One thing to always remember when shopping the sales: is this something you’re buying because you need it or is it just the discount drawing you in? Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t always mean it’s a good price! Refer to our first tip and stick to your plan.
 
Take to the Web
Shopping at this time of year is regularly marked by crowded stores and painfully long wait times. Those waiting times will only increase this year due to limited store capacities and social distancing measures. This holiday season, consider getting your gifts online! This is a Pandemic-safe and hassle-free way to get your shopping done from the comfort of your own home.
 
Not only is it safer, but online shopping could actually cost you less. If you miss the big sales, don’t fret, stores often have discounts and promotions that are online-only. You can download web-extensions like Honey to help you find and apply these deals.
 
As well, if you’re worried about paying for shipping, plan your shop accordingly! Many stores have a spending minimum to receive free shipping. If you buy multiple gifts at once, you can save yourself time and money. If you want to avoid shipping entirely, consider online-shopping locally! With small-businesses heavily impacted by the Pandemic, we highly recommend getting gifts from stores in your area. Many retailers are now offering the option for curb-side pickup when you shop online or call in orders.
 
Giving, not Getting
If your budget is tight this year, but your gift list is long, consider going light this month on purchases for yourself. After all, it is the giving season, you may just get that sweater you wanted from someone else! And if not, factor it into next month’s spending and treat yourself later.
 
The Best Things in Life are Free
As you’re budgeting and buying, remember that the best gifts in life are often free! This year, the holidays will look a bit different than usual. While it might not be in person, there are still ways to spend time with your loved ones this season. Whether it’s a family quiz-night over zoom or a toast with friends on facetime, consider organizing something digitally.
 
Stay safe this holiday season and happy shopping!

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