Once the holiday lights dim and the new year rolls in — reality check hits hard when all those credit card bills arrive. And that is never fun. That is why we decided to help you plan your Christmas on a budget this year. Because we want to ensure you get through the holidays financially sound and don’t want you to miss out on all the fun(ds).
Get your Christmas budget right
First, start with listing out who you plan to buy gifts for and how much you are willing to spend on each person. Also, add anticipated expenses like food for a holiday meal. When you plan a budget, if you can spend less, that would be great. But understand that spending more is a big NO-NO and that would just ruin your Christmas and New Year.
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Plan ahead and shop smart
If you missed this in 2021, you can always stay on top of your game for 2022. Don’t get easily side-tracked with all the fancy advertisements that meet the eye. Have a game plan that you can easily stick to your guns.
Map out the days and stores you’ll be shopping. Also, you might want to leave those credit cards at home and only use the money you have saved. You do know that the whole point is to avoid racking up any holiday debt whatsoever.
Save for your Christmas budget
Before Christmas sales, hit the stores. Try and find any expenses in your budget you could cut. While you’re running your numbers, ask yourself if a particular expense is necessary. Check and see if it’s reasonable. If you need to, try and pick up a side hustle for Christmas.
Now that you’re serious about having a plan you might as well execute and stay committed to it. Have a savings partner/accountability partner on board, and keep tabs on each other. That way you both can motivate each other to stay focused and smash those Christmas goals together.
Tap into your festive creativity
Are you a firm believer in less is more? Yes, you might want to want to buy the world for people, but remind yourself that they don’t need it as much as you think they do. A shirt in one color is better than three different shirts in three colors. One gift is enough for one person and it will help you stick to your budget.
If you enjoy making things, there are a ton of creative ways you can make gifts yourself. It saves a lot of money! Consider giving experiences instead of material stuff.
Host a gift swap meet
Host a party in lieu of buying gifts for friends and family. Your Christmas budget savings will top your game with this strategy. Moreover, your family and friends will gain a new appreciation for your cleverness. If you want an even more festive, but inexpensive event, make it a potluck dinner.
