Christmas spending tips
Looking to avoid budget blowout this Christmas? Check out these tips for Christmas gifts that won’t break the bank.
1. Buy local
By purchasing from small businesses, artisans and producers in your local area, you’ll help to create jobs and keep more of the money in your community.
Local suppliers often also have different and unique products for sale that aren’t available from national chains. So look out for your local Christmas market, craft fair or farmers market, or choose gifts from a small businesses nearby.
2. Get creative
If you enjoy making things, this is for you. What could embody the spirit of giving more than creating your own beautiful handmade gifts? Not only will you save money, giving will feel more meaningful when you’ve put your own time into it.
3. Give an experience
Even better than material goods, why not give the gift of an experience? Experiences are more memorable, offering the recipients a chance to connect and enjoy themselves. The possibilities are endless, so you’re sure to find something that suits. You could go traditional with restaurant vouchers, movie tickets, zoo or aquarium passes, or more unusual, like hot air ballooning, art or cooking classes or even a weekend away.
4. Give your time
If you can’t afford an elaborate gift, you still have something everyone needs – time! Giving your time without expecting anything in return is the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the holidays. Perhaps you could gift an elderly relative with some help around the house, offer to babysit your sister’s kids for a night, finish a DIY project for your mum, or stock someone’s freezer with enough meals for a week.
5. Make a donation
If the people you love truly don’t need anything, perhaps they’d appreciate you donating a gift on their behalf.
In most cases, one simple gift is enough and can even be more appreciated. You’ll be doing them, the environment, and your budget a big favour.
Discuss how you feel with those closest to you and let them know you’ll be prioritising time together over physical gifts. It could help you start the new year in a better financial position than ever.
Source: Money and Life
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If you’d like to avoid a budget blowout and have a more ‘conscious’ Christmas this year, here a few alternative ideas to help you celebrate.