Smarter Holiday Shopping; Savvy Saving

How to Save Money This Christmas; The Game Plan

Part I

Avoid Holiday Spending Traps

 

Budget a total amount. Be honest about your spending limits.

Set a limit for each person. This will allow you to narrow down your options and make shopping decisions less overwhelming.

Have friends or family members create a wish list.  This allows you to get them something they really want and you don’t have to stress over figuring out what to get them.

Make a shopping list ahead of time. Research items online for best prices.  Print out or make note of thr lowest price of each item in case you need to price match.

Stick to the list!!! Browsing can lead to your downfall.  If you know what you’re there to get, then you’ll be less likely to buy unnecessary extras.  If you need to, bring a shopping nazi.  In my case, that would be my brother.

Pool funds for gifts. Ex. for Mom, divide with others the cost of the gift.  This also ensures a better gift rather than several small gifts.

Consider the Secret Santa option. There are new ways on the internet to make the exchange more seamless.  Each person creates an account online and the site can also randomly choose your recipients name.  You can even create wish lists on some sites.  This would be great for family members that do not live nearby or people that have no idea what their recipient may want.

 

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Secret Santa

Photo from Wishzilla.com

 

Now that you have organized and researched, remember:

Shop early so you have enough time for online purchase options and to avoid high shipping costs.  Stores generally don’t offer their best prices right before Christmas.  They count on last minute shoppers paying more for products.

Try to use cash instead of credit. We all know, the ease of just charging it, usually results in overspending.  The last thing you want is to pay for Christmas charges all through the next year.

Prepare for tunnel vision. Stores put out all kinds of little booby traps, gifts with small price tags, to psych you out into thinking that the little purchase won’t put a dent into your budget.  This year, we’re not going to fall for it! Christmas makes us all overspend by buying little things here and there. That’s what leaves us with the feeling, “how did I spend so much, when I only bought a couple of things?!”

If you bought too much, return it ASAP. As Christmas gets closer, things get more hectic for everyone.  The stores also get jam packed.  So do it now, before you lose that receipt!

Stick to the list! I’ve already mentioned this, but it is worth mentioning again.  Financial stress takes away being able to fully relax and enjoy the season.

Price Match. Price matching is the easiest way to ensure you’re getting a better deal.  Bring a printout or ad with you.  Most stores will honor competitors prices.  Even if you don’t have an ad, ask for a discount.  In my experience, big chain stores such as Best Buy and Sears will negotiate.  Keep the attitude, everything is negotiable. I wouldn’t try it at the check stand of a supermarket, not that it can’t be done, but don’t be shy to ask at major retailers.  You’ll be surprised the deals you can get just for asking.

Up Next;

Part II features indispensable online resources to smarter shopping.

 

 

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