You know how it is, you head to the shops and before long you have an entire trolley full, the crowds are getting to you, and you just want to pay and get out of there. You get up to the checkout and before your very eyes the total is climbing way past what you thought you had planned for.
So how can you make sure that you are giving great gifts without blowing your budget? Here are some tips that might just help.
Go on a scouting trip.
Sometimes you just don’t know what it is that you are going to get for someone until you see it. Head out to the shops and bring a list of people you need to shop for, and then weigh up your options. You can cover far more ground if you aren’t pushing a trolley or doing trips back to the car. That means that you can get a great idea of what is out there, and which stores have the best prices on those items.
And then comes part two…
Can you get it online, or price match?
Check out whether online stores can offer the same item including deliver for less. Just make sure that the delivery dates are within an acceptable timeframe. There are also plenty of places that will price match, and this sometimes includes matching (or even beating) prices of online stores. A great strategy is those shipping dates just don’t work for you.
Can you get it near new or up-cycle it?
You’d be amazed how many online garage sale sites will offer up near new items, sometimes even with the original packaging. If it’s a little worn and you are crafty, you could up-cycle gently used items for much less than buying new. Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace are great places to source second hand gifts that would go down a treat!
What can you get in bulk?
For things like chocolates, bottles of win, small trinkets (like for gift baskets) you might be able to buy in bulk and spread out among many gifts. These are also great to have on hand as a spare in the event that you’ve accidentally forgotten to buy a gift for someone, or receive a gift from someone you weren’t expecting one from.
Could you make it yourself?
Some of the best responses to presents have come when it’s something handmade. Perhaps a beautifully presented package of decorated Christmas baked goodies. Handmade accessories. Art. Home decor. Whatever your hidden talents are, put them to work and whip up some gifts that are personal and thoughtful.
Keep things in perspective
At the end of the day Christmas is about spending quality time with friends and family, and gifts are just a nice addition to that. Sometimes your presence is present enough.
If on the other hand you find yourself a little short this Christmas, have unexpected bills, or an opportunity you just can’t miss and need some quick cash you could always consider a short term loan >>
Need extra help with your budget? Check out the ASIS Moneysmart Budget guide here.
Still stuck? A short term loan could help you take care of an unexpected bill, emergency, or opportunity you just can’t miss. Find out more here >>