Christmas can be an expensive time of the year, with the cost of food, drink, and presents mounting up — especially for those who may have lost their jobs or are financially struggling due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The money saving experts at online price tracking website Alertr.co.uk have compiled a list of tips to help you save money and get ready for Christmas without a lasting impact on your savings.
Start prepping early in the year
Starting to get prepared earlier on in the year allows you to slowly get all the things you need for Christmas without feeling such a big effect on your monthly income.
Putting a small amount of money towards Christmas plans each month means you can get prepared without eating into your savings or finding yourself short at the end of the month.
Don’t go overboard on presents
You can still experience the joy of giving without spending huge sums on the latest game console or smartphone. “Create a gift giving culture that allows you to spend less on each other, yet still appreciate the thought and effort put into getting the gifts,” say the experts at Alertr.
Try making homemade gifts, upcycling or putting a cap on how much each family member spends on presents.
Make a budget
“Set out a certain amount to spend on each of your friends and family members and try not to exceed that limit,” say Alertr’s money saving experts.
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“Setting a budget could help you can work out earlier in the year what impact Christmas is going