It’s tiiiiiiime! The holiday countdown is on, and if you’re like me, you still haven’t decked the halls—and definitely haven’t shopped for presents. With trends changing yearly and social media posting Hallmark-worthy houses, it can feel overwhelming trying to get in the holiday spirit while staying within your means, especially if you waited until now. Keep reading for six tips to make the season bright while staying on budget.
1. Before you go
You may think the first thing to do is set a budget. But before you get there, channel your inner St. Nick by making a list and checking it twice. Do you have a theme or color scheme in mind? Are you looking for a particular type of décor? Write it all down and then prioritize what matters most. It’s also a good idea to pull out the decorations you already have so you can factor them into your plan. Once you feel confident in your list, then you can make a budget. Starting with a list can help you create a more realistic budget that fits your financial goals while filling your home with holiday cheer.
2. Holiday swap
Didn’t find what you were looking for in your holiday stash? Try your neighbor! It’s easy to accumulate holiday decorations, and while some are sentimental, some just take up space. But one man’s clutter is another’s treasure, so organizing a holiday swap can help everyone find some new decorations while also potentially freeing up space. You can also do a gift swap with things like gently used or unopened toys, books, and puzzles. Now’s the perfect time, too, as some people may have already decorated and found plenty of things they’d be happy to swap, while others are just getting started.
3. Shop secondhand
Thrift and secondhand stores are also great places to hunt for holiday décor. You can find vintage ornaments and centerpieces, along with wreaths, garlands, pillow covers, and more. Shopping secondhand often allows you to acquire pieces that are special and unique, so you can create your own magical holiday moment without spending a fortune.
Secondhand stores can also be a good place to find gifts. For example, you may have a friend who collects records or CDs, or a friend who loves old books. Thrift stores can be the perfect place to purchase these special items. If you have a child in your life, you can often find name-brand toys like Hot Wheels cars and Jellycat stuffed animals, minus the standard price tag.
Lastly, be sure to take a trip through the glassware before you go, especially if you need a hostess gift. Grab a thrifted vase as the perfect accompaniment to a bouquet of flowers or snag a beautiful picture frame for a special memory from this year. If you’re bringing food, you can also check out any platters or casserole dishes. Not only are they more sustainable than plastic, but they’re also much cuter. Plus, a vintage Pyrex dish can double as a gift.
4. Do it (yourself) with love
It’s the thought that counts! There’s a reason this expression exists—not everyone needs or wants a fancy present. And sometimes, the most impactful gifts are the ones that show you’ve put in more effort. If this sounds like someone you know, consider making something this year instead of buying, especially if you already have the supplies on hand. If you love to crochet, you might make a blanket or a scarf. If you’re an artist, consider recreating a special moment.
Sometimes the excitement of DIY-ing can be more exciting than reality, and the result is more costly than buying, so don’t go overboard. One of my most treasured presents is a leaf book my grandma made for me out of a binder, construction paper, and leaves from her yard. Things created with love are often cherished forever, even long after the person is gone.
5. Redeem those points
Sometimes secondhand or DIY won’t cut it—and that’s okay! Maybe you’ve had your eye on a particular item or your loved one’s gift list is very specific. In that case, now’s your chance to redeem your credit card points. Since your points are often redeemable in various manners, you can choose the method that works best for you—and your wallet. Had your eye on a gorgeous but expensive wreath? Redeem your points for a gift card! Trying to surprise your parents with a vacation? Use your points to book their airfare or hotel. The possibilities are endless, and if you’ve been hoarding points—accidentally or otherwise—you may be able to redeem them for different options.
6. Holiday help
Occasionally, despite months of planning, we need extra help during the holidays. If you need wiggle room, one option may be a payment holiday. This allows you to temporarily delay or suspend a loan payment for a set period, which can give you some leeway for short-term financial needs. Another option is a holiday loan. Whether you need more funds for gifts, travel, or additional expenses, a holiday loan can help bring the holiday spirit to life.
Moving forward, you may also consider opening a holiday savings account. While it won’t help you this year, consider it a present for yourself next year. These accounts are a dedicated way to save money specifically for the holidays, with your balance transferring automatically to your primary savings on November 1st. You may still procrastinate on shopping and decorating, but you’ll be a step ahead of your budget.
Key takeaways
- Make a list of wants and needs, prioritize it, and then tackle your budget.
- Secondhand stores are a great way to save money while finding decorations and gifts.
- Redeem your credit card points.
’Tis the season to be jolly, and saving money on presents and holiday decorations is a great way to spread the cheer even further. We hope these tips help keep your season bright, even as the sun sets a little too early. Have a favorite holiday money-saving hack? Share it in the comments below!
