Rushing from one store to the next as you shop for the holidays can be exhausting. You may also end up overspending if you have no checks in place. Smart holiday shopping is in vogue these days and keeps your money safe; it saves you from burning a hole in your wallet.
Here, we have rounded up five ways to help you spend this holiday season smartly.
1. Plan in advance
Creating a plan for your holiday shopping is a must. Incorporate days when you should shop and indicate times when stores are not crowded with shoppers. This way, you can keep the last-minute shopping rush to a minimum. Shopping at the eleventh hour also means you get no deals and may have to spend more than necessary. So, plan your purchases in advance and start picking up items when they are available at discounted prices.
2. Set a spending limit for gifts
Whether they are for family members or colleagues, gifts cannot be avoided during the holidays. Even if you have several people on your list, you can gift them without busting the bank. All you need to do is set a budget and plan for relevant gifts. Next, decide how much you want to spend on a gift for each person. By working within a budget, you can choose meaningful gifts for your loved ones. If you plan to gift the needy ensure you have budgeted their gifts too.
Also Read: Why Money Is An Ideal Gift For All Seasons
3. Host the best parties, but on a budget
Hosting parties and attending them is unavoidable during the holiday season. Your holiday shopping should ideally include items you will need while hosting parties. Plan ahead and stock up on disposable plates, scented candles, balloons, streamers, or little keepsakes for guests. Buying party necessities ahead of time can also save you money.
What is a party without delicious food during the holiday season?
Make a budget and plan food items that are absolutely essential during the holiday season. Keep an eye on discounts at supermarkets and grocery stores. So, if you are buying food, cakes, pies and munchies for a party or family dinner during the holidays, it is ideal that you stock up in advance. Remember that buying food and drinks in bulk will cut costs. If you spend wisely this holiday season, you can throw a classy party without breaking the bank.
4. Stick to using cash
Keeping an eye on how much you spend on holiday shopping can be tricky if you are using a credit or debit card. So, why not withdraw the cash you intend to spend instead? Then as per your plan, you can finish your holiday shopping while ensuring you do not spend beyond the estimated budget. With the plethora of options to indulge in retail therapy, it is likely you might spend on several small gifts and overshoot your budget. By using only cash, you will be able to track your spending and plan your purchases within your budget.
5. Shop online, smartly
Online sales usually happen during the year-end (as several portals try to mimic Black Friday in the US). With timely information about sales, you can buy everything from stoneware plates to gaming consoles at a reduced price online. Further, you can register for alerts that inform you about upcoming sales.
Technology is instrumental in helping shoppers make decisions when they are shopping during the holiday season and are on the look-out for discounts. You can use your smartphone and specific apps to compare the prices of products in-store against those available online and choose the smarter option while shopping during the holiday season.
Living up to the spirit of the holiday season does not mean you have to overspend. It is indeed possible to celebrate the holidays with your friends and family and have a great time – without splurging!
