That magical time of year when we somehow forgetthe chaos of last-minute shoppingonly to repeat it annually.
But not this year.
This year, youre going to crush holiday shopping like the efficient, money-saving champ you aspire to be.
Give Fewer (But More Thoughtful) Gifts
Think fewer gifts, less stress and more fun.
Try suggesting a Secret Santa or White Elephant-throw in party with family and friends.
Explain the benefits of each person only needing to put their energy into one thoughtful gift.
Many people welcome new traditions that lead to reduced stress and more relaxation during the holiday season.
Everyone wins.Heres how to start saving money, even if you dont have room in your budget.
Create a Gift List (with a Backup Plan)
Winging it is a terrible strategy.
Write down everyone you need gifts for, along with reasonable ideas and a budget.
This will save you from buying emergency scented candles at full price on Christmas Eve.
No one wants another lavender candle.
Have a fail-safe backup ready, like an Amazon gift card.
While shopping for everyone else, keep an eye out for those giftless folks.
If nothing jumps out?
Gift card it is.
And if youre running low from last year, double-check to addwrapping paperto the list.Another money hack?
Spend less on these dumb things.
Because Youre Creative (Right?)
On a super tight budget this year?
Handmade gifts say, Time is money, but I have more time than money and I love you.
Stick to simple, foolproof DIYs and Set aside some crafting time on the calendar.
No one enjoys panic-bedazzling t-shirts when they could be eggnogging with the Hallmark channel.Need a budget?
Heres how to make one, step-by-step.
(You get socks!
Everybody gets socks!)
When its time to shop, dont go off the rails.
Stick to your list and your budget.Looking for another money-saving life hack?
These companies give you food and other products for free.
Install abrowser extensionlike Honey or Capital One Shopping to be automatically notified of promo codes and free shipping offers.
Its not selfishits just smart.Got a birthday coming up?
These 117 places will give you free stuff on your birthday.
Make them more unique for a few of those special humans on the list.
Hit up local markets or small businesses to find that handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gift.
Here are eight more you should try.
Heres to a Panic-Free December!
Getting your holiday shopping done early and on the cheap isnt just possibleits necessary.
So, pour yourself a hot cup of coffee (or eggnog, no judgment) and get cracking.
