Blogmas Day 13: How to Stick to Your Christmas Budget

This may be a little late, as we’re getting so close to Christmas now, but I can’t be the only person who hasn’t finished their shopping right? Christmas can be a pretty expensive time, and I’m pretty sure we’ve all been guilty of spending too much. Which might make for brilliant gifts, but it’s not so good for our bills.

I’ve been guilty of spending too much this year, and considering I’m still not done; it’s not looking good. In this post I’m going to go through some ways to help you to stick to your budget.

This is Blogmas Day 13: How to Stick to Your Christmas Budget!

Use Your Store Advantage Cards

You know those points you’ve been gathering throughout the year? Christmas is a great time to spend them. My Boots card has really come in handy this year, as they have had so many amazing deals on, and I’ve been able to get them with my points. If you can stack up points, then it’s definitely worth spending them on presents if you’re a little stuck for money.

Remember to Save Room for Yourself

If you go through December and don’t budget anything in for yourself, then you’re already struggling. There’s a high chance that you’re going to need to pick up the odd bit for yourself that’s a necessity. It’s also a little too easy to slip something in for yourself when you’re Christmas shopping. It’s always best to save some of the budget for yourself; you never know what may come up.

Will They Use It?

This is something I’ve stuck by this year. The shops sell a lot of novelty gifts that may be used once and then put away never to be seen again; which ultimately is a bit of waste. I really want to focus on getting people things they need or have wanted, rather than something that will clutter their house. Plus it’s a great feeling when you know someone loves the gift you got them.

Allow for a Little Breathing Space

I find that it’s better to not be so strict with the budget and instead of setting a specific price, set brackets instead. For example: £15-£20 or £8-£10. It can be hard to stick to a specific budget, but these brackets should make it a little easier. When I did my last minute gift guide, I saw some things that I thought my family might like when I was on the Thornton’s website, so I may have made a little order, but I still haven’t gone over my budget, as I added that little bit extra.

 Look For Sales

A great way to save is to look for the same item, but in other stores. Someone in my family wanted a MAC lipstick, but I shopped around and managed to find them in John Lewis, where they were on sale for £14. It might not be a huge saving, but that couple of £, can go towards something else. Just make sure you’re not buying something just because it’s cheap; it’s only a bargain if the person really wants it.

Just remember that it’s not worth getting into debt. Christmas presents don’t have to cost the earth, and that’s okay.

That was Blogmas Day 13: How to Stick to Your Christmas Budget!

How is your shopping going?

Thank you for reading!