* Guest post
Christmas can a stressful period even though it's
associated with bottomless glasses of Bailey’s, Michael Bublé album, or even
mince pies. The reason for this is that when you sum it all up, it does add up
to a significant period in the year.
However, this does not always have to be the case. It is
possible to avoid spending too much on the less important parts of the season.
Here are 9 ways to save
this Christmas...
1. Using Cashback Credit Cards
Cashback credit cards give you a set percentage back
(usually 5%) for each purchase you make thus making your shopping cheaper
without even using discount codes. However, you should repay it in full each
month by setting up a direct debit since you could otherwise end up paying
about a 23% interest rate, which makes the 5% savings look seriously
insignificant.
2. Online Purchases
You probably enjoy the Christmas displays and the feeling of
being in a department store during the festive season. Still, you cannot deny
that it is possible to find what you are shopping for online for much less.
Consider using All Beauty for perfume purchases, Depop for clothing purchases,
and Amazon for book purchases. After all, you will be getting the same products
but at a much lower price.
3. Avoid Being A Snob
It is not a bad thing to take pride in buying presents, but
you should never feel like you are being judged completely on the price tag of
what you are gifting. The best presents sometimes are the thoughtful, homemade
things.
4. Booking Train Tickets 8 Weeks Prior
Booking train ticket might not be actual shopping but it
does involve the purchase of something. Booking your train tickets 12 weeks
prior is typically much cheaper. Considering that tickets are often pricier
during the festive season, it makes sense to book them in advance so that you
never have to spend a fortune once the festive season is in full gear. Best get booking, quick!
5. Using Loyalty Cards
Why do you need a loyalty card if you never claim the points
that you save? You should save all year round so that by Christmas you will
have a decent amount in cash to spend or even convert in vouchers you can
subsequently spend at the particular store.
6. Avoid Overbuying Food
While a turkey sandwich might be something to look forward
to on Boxing Day, it is possible to buy too much Christmas food. I am definitely guilty of this! That's why it's important to get your portion sizes right and avoid wasting food since you
will be wasting money too.
7. Proper Organisation
Prepare a list of all those you need to get gifts for as
well as what you plan to get them since it helps you avoid the mad dash
commonly witnessed during the Christmas season. Doing this also ensures that
you don’t spend too much money if your neighbor invites you over for coffee
because you had not planned to get her a present, you should not be panic
buying one at the last minute.
8. Using Voucher Codes & Freebie Sites
Christmas has a tendency to bring with it endless shopping,
endless socializing, and endless amounts of money leaving your wallet. This is
where voucher codes come in. It is always a good idea to sign up to several
voucher code websites or scour the web thoroughly before you agree to an
evening out or buying any gifts. Moneysavingexpert
and WOWFreeStuff is an amazing
resource for amazing discounts on brands and dinner, and they often have
exclusive deals unavailable elsewhere.
9. Start Your Shopping Now!
While it might seem a bit early to start your shopping,
buying several things each week prior to the actual shopping season helps you
remain in control of your finances and keep track of your purchases. If you do
this, you will ensure that it does not come as a huge shock all at once.
If you follow all the 9 tips discussed here, you can be sure
of waving your Christmas money related worries goodbye.
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