Holiday shopping is one of those things that you either love or hate but whether you find it a joy or a chore, there’s one thing we can probably all agree on – it’s pretty expensive to get gifts for all of those important people in our lives, right? Most of us would, then, love to be able to cut the cost of our holiday shopping if we could, while still getting our friends and family members something they love. Well, you know what? It’s totally possible to shop well for the holidays without spending the contents of your bank account!
Below we’ll show you some of the best ways to save money on holiday shopping right now:
1. Embrace the Power of the List
Start with a list and check it twice. Knowing exactly who you need to shop for and setting a budget for each person can prevent impulse buys. It’s like grocery shopping: go in without a list, and you’ll come out with a cartful of things you didn’t know you needed. Stick to the list!
2. Hunt for Deals Like It’s Your Job
The early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the deals. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite stores to get a heads-up on sales and exclusive coupons. Utilize price comparison websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal out there. Apps like Honey or Rakuten can automatically apply discount codes or give you cash back on online purchases. Let technology do the penny-pinching for you.
3. Go Incognito
Ever notice how prices suddenly spike on that flight or toy you’ve been checking out? Welcome to the world of dynamic pricing. Use your browser’s incognito or private browsing mode when shopping for gifts online. This way, websites can’t track your visits and jack up prices based on your interest. Sneaky, but effective.
4. Get Crafty with DIY Gifts
DIY gifts are like double coupons; they save money and score you points for effort and thoughtfulness. Whether it’s homemade candles, a knitted scarf, or a custom photo album, a personalized gift often holds more sentimental value than anything you could buy. Plus, watching YouTube DIY videos is a great way to spend a Saturday… or three.
5. Shop Out of Season
This one requires a bit of a time machine, or at least a good memory. Shop for next year’s gifts right after this year’s holidays when everything is on clearance. Sure, it means planning way ahead and finding a good hiding spot for a year, but your wallet will thank you.
6. Utilize Layaway Plans
For bigger purchases, consider using layaway plans. Many stores offer this option, which allows you to pay for items in installments without the interest that comes with credit card purchases. You can secure items at their current price, even if you don’t have all the cash up front.
7. Join the Secret Santa Tradition
If your gift list is longer than a CVS receipt, it might be time to propose a Secret Santa or gift exchange among friends and family. This way, everyone gets a gift, everyone buys only one gift, and nobody has to eat instant noodles until February. It’s a holiday miracle!
8. Hit Up the Thrift Shops
Thrift stores, antique shops, and flea markets can be treasure troves for unique gifts at low prices. You might find a vintage handbag, a classic vinyl record, or quirky decor that would cost a fortune new. It’s eco-friendly, wallet-friendly, and no one will know you didn’t pay full price unless you tell them (which you won’t).
9. Give the Gift of Experience
Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things but experiences. Concert tickets, a cooking class, or a membership to a museum can be more memorable and often more affordable than physical gifts. Bonus: no wrapping required!
10. Price Drop Refunds
After making your purchases, keep an eye on price drops for the items you’ve bought. Some retailers and credit cards offer price protection policies that refund the difference if the price drops within a certain period after your purchase. Apps like Paribus and Earny can automate this process by tracking your receipts and claiming refunds on your behalf.
11. Gift Card Smart Shopping
Take advantage of discounted gift cards from websites like Gift Card Granny or Raise. Purchasing gift cards for less than face value can lead to instant savings. Use these cards to shop for gifts, or give them as gifts themselves. Additionally, some retailers offer promotions where buying a certain amount in gift cards comes with a bonus card.
12. Leverage Social Media Giveaways
Follow your favorite brands and local stores on social media to participate in holiday contests and giveaways. Many companies run promotions during the holiday season, offering free products or gift cards to lucky winners. Engaging in these can be a fun and potentially rewarding way to supplement your gift-giving arsenal.
13. Combine Offers
Maximize savings by combining various offers. Stack coupons, promo codes, and cashback deals wherever possible. Tools like browser extensions can automatically apply multiple coupons at checkout to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Also, check if your store allows you to use multiple forms of discounts in one transaction.
14. Opt for Store Pickup
Avoid shipping fees by opting for in-store pickup where available. Many retailers offer special discounts for customers who choose to pick up their online orders in the store. This not only saves on shipping costs but can also lead to faster possession of your items, avoiding potential delivery delays during the busy holiday season.
15. Remember the True Spirit of the Season
When it comes right down to it, the holiday season is all about spending time with the people you love the most, not the material possessions you may or may not exchange with one another. So, if you really want to make savings go for handwritten, heartfelt cards and homemade cookies that you bake together instead of the latest $600 dollar phone, and you know what? You’ll make more significant holiday memories than ever before.
Hopefully, these tips have helped you to see that you can celebrate the holiday season without spending like a Rockefeller! Just remember that no matter how tempting, you probably don’t need to buy that life-sized inflatable reindeer. Happy holidays and happier savings!
