1. Set a budget and stick to it!
The weeks leading up to Christmas are the perfect time to sit down and work out how much you can afford to spend. Putting costs into different categories, like gifts, decorations, food, socialising and donations will help you to work out where most of your budget will go, and where you could make savings. If you’re not sure how much to budget, looking over your bank statements from last year is a good starting point. To help you stick to your budget, track your spending using a spreadsheet, spending app or even pen and paper.
2. Focus on memories, not money
Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, not just giving gifts. From twinkling light trails to festive markets, making memories with all the family is the top of most Christmas lists. To help you make some special memories over the festive season, we’ve pulled together a list of things to do this Christmas in and around the West Midlands, whatever your budget.
Explore festive activities3. Send digital Christmas cards
Digital Christmas cards are a great way to save money, whilst also doing your bit for the environment. Save money on buying cards and postage and send your season’s greetings straight to your loved one’s inbox. You can even add a photo or message to add a personal touch.
4. Have a pre-Christmas clear out
Mark a day in your calendar for an annual Christmas clear out. If there's something you haven't used since last Christmas, pop it into a throw, sell or donate pile. Pick your garage, a room or even just a cupboard and set yourself a challenge of selling or donating an item for every Christmas gift you’ve brought for someone in your house. Look at local car boot sales or online marketplaces to turn unwanted clutter into cash whilst also making space at home for any gifts you receive.
5. Talk to family and friends about gifting
Talk with your family and friends ahead of the festive season about gifts and how much you plan to spend. You might find that your loved ones are also hoping to cut back, so don’t be afraid to start the conversation. You could set a budget to avoid overspending or do Secret Santa, so everyone only buys for one person. Or why not agree to put the money towards a Christmas outing for the whole family instead? Take a look at some festive things to do in and around the West Midlands.
Explore festive activities
6. Research your routes
Don’t forget to add transport over the festive period to your budget. Whether you’re visiting family, going to events or having a trip away, if you’re travelling, research your options in advance. Sometimes, booking tickets in advance can save you money. If you can be flexible, travelling one day earlier or later can make a big difference to the cost.
7. Save whilst you’re spending
Before you check out online or in the shops, look for any discount codes or cashback sites where you can save money or earn some back for spending. The small amounts you’re saving will make a big difference. You could even put the amount you’ve saved away into a festive fund to help cover the cost of other things, like your Christmas food shop.
8. Use loyalty points or gift cards
Many people choose to save their loyalty points throughout the year to spend on gifts over the festive season. If you can resist the urge to spend them until Christmas, it can make a big difference to your shopping bill. If you didn’t manage to save yours this year, set yourself the challenge next year to start saving them up throughout the year, ready for next Christmas!
9. Shop own brand
Making swaps from branded products to supermarket own brands is a little change you can make that can save money. Start with cupboard staples and see if you can find own-brand alternatives that you prefer. Over time, work out which items you’re willing to swap – before you know it, you might be cooking a completely own-brand Christmas dinner!
10. Save on delivery
If you’re beating the crowds by shopping online, combining orders can help you to save on delivery costs. Write a list of who you’re buying for and where from to help you avoid making several orders from the same place and paying multiple delivery costs. Choosing a department store where you can buy a whole range of gifts for everyone on your list could also help you save on delivery. Sometimes, choosing to click and collect from your local store is a cheaper option too.
11. Do it yourself!
If you’re looking for the perfect, personal, one-of-a-kind gift – make it! Get creative and DIY decorations like centre pieces, wreaths and gifts. Involve all the family in the fun, and it could become your new yearly tradition.
12. Plan your food shop
Plan your meals in advance, make a list – and check it twice. If you’re hosting, or visiting loved ones for Christmas, plan with family and friends to share the cost of the food. Start shopping early for non-perishable items to spread the cost over the months leading up to Christmas. It can save you money, help you stick to your budget and avoid the supermarket rush!
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Talk to someone if you’re worried
If you’re worried about money during the festive period, you’re not alone. Find out how we can help and what support is available to you.
Money worries and the cost of living