Holiday season doesn’t have to cost you a ton of money

The holiday season is almost upon us and Thanksgiving was just an appetizer for the entree of festivities set to come. The holidays are a wonderful time to catch up with family, relax and just enjoy yourself.

However, the holidays always prove financially strenuous for most, year in and year out. Buying loved one’s gifts may not necessarily be mandatory as it is the thought that counts, but seeing the smile on their faces is priceless. However, there are tons of ways to save money over the holiday season and spend less.

One major way one can spend less during the holiday season is by taking advantage of sales and numerous discounts. Thanksgiving is basically the start of holiday shopping and with several discounts from retailers, what better way to begin the holidays by seizing the opportunity at hand. Retailers are keen on clearing their shops of old merchandise to clear space for new merchandise thus there are sales in almost every shop. Shopping early would also be highly beneficial as it will prevent last minute shopping where one could spend a fortune purchasing an item they could have got for much less earlier in the year.

Creating a shopping list and sticking to it can also save one a lot of cash over the holiday season. Sales and discounts are beneficial in terms of lightening the financial burden to afford items but the temptation to keep buying is very high, especially during the holidays. A shopping list instills a sense of discipline, preventing one from overspending and just acquiring what they need.

Another way one could economize during the holidays is choosing less expensive traditions. While vital and admirable, traditions do not have to be expensive in order to be memorable. Most celebrations are done with friends or extended family, thus employing things like making the celebration a potluck would not hurt and would save money.

Holidays bring people together, thus the important thing is that people enjoy each other’s company and not focus entirely on gifts. Cutting down on your giving list perhaps seems a bit harsh but could be a huge money saver as there are some people you exchange gifts with out of sheer habit. A simply outing together could be the tradition you start this year and may end up being even more special than a mere material gift.

Other ways one can survive this holiday season without breaking the bank are do-it-yourself projects. This mostly applies to holiday decorations where one can be innovative and make something special instead of purchasing it from the store. Making handmade gifts would also make the season unique as the amount of effort one puts in to create a gift would make it one of a kind.

Choosing low cost activities or finding free local events would also do wonders for one’s bank account during this festive season.

These are just a couple of tips to help one save some money over the glorious holiday season. The holidays are about making memories, thus spreading joy through whatever way possible, even if just by a smile, should be the main goal this holiday season.