How to shop for Christmas on a budget
I hope at this point you can see a theme in the way I approach everything in the world of finances. BUDGET. A budget is the foundation for gaining financial control and getting out of debt. Using a budget for all of those categories that are “personal” is important too! Things like birthday gifts, Christmas gifts, furniture, miscellaneous. If you don’t create a budget for those things as well, you’re more likely to overspend or go above what your total budget is.
Here are some ways to shop for Christmas on a budget:
1) Make a list of who you’re buying for with a spending limit
2) Put some thought into what they really like right now – even if the gift is small or an accessory to something bigger, they will love it if it’s what they are excited about at the moment.
3) Pay in cash so you don’t go over your limit.
4) If you’re going to shop online, use cash and get a prepaid card. This helps with security and budget
5) Go alone when you shop – so you can stay focused on your list
6) YOU are not on the list ? so no buying for you!
7) Scour sale bills, black Friday sales, online deals.
8) Regifting
9) Homemade gifts- everyone LOVES that dessert you make. Who wouldn’t love their very own?
10) MY FAVORITE – take items from your kids list and give those ideas to family members. They are always asking what to buy and the kids get what they want!