The 12 tips of Christmas
While the festive season is a lovely time of year for family, friends and fun, it also tends to be a time when our finances come under a bit of pressure. Here are a few steps you can take so you can focus on the festivities and avoid the financial stress of the silly season.
1. Make a list
Every time you hit the shops or jump online (because let’s be honest, it’ll take more than one go), make a list of what you need (but after you’ve eaten, to avoid hunger-based snack purchases). This goes for everything from gifts and Christmas Day food, to decorations and extra furniture/linens for holiday guests.
2. Set your own budget
You don’t have to keep up with the Joneses this Christmas. In fact, we’ll let you in on a little secret. Those families in the ads and magazines – the ones with themed outfits and perfect table settings for their gourmet feasts – don’t actually exist. So take the pressure off, and set a Christmas budget that works for you.
3. Shop around
While many of us will be heading online this year for their shopping, don’t forget to shop around to find your gifts with your budget in mind. Don’t limit yourself to department stores, malls and supermarkets to get great gifts, hit the outlets, or even go second-hand.
4. Get creative
When it comes to gifts, bigger (and designer branded) isn’t always better. Think hand-made gifts, like food or personalised crafts. Alternatively, give an experience rather than a present – it gives the recipient something to look forward to after the holidays are over. It can be a good idea to organise a Kris Kringle or Secret Santa for your close family or friend group, so you only have to buy one present.
5. Shop with purpose
Australia Post are tipping this will be their busiest year ever, so are recommending to get in early to ensure your deliveries make their destinations on time.i When you do head out to the shops, plan your trip and set a time limit as well as a budget before you leave the house so you don’t get distracted by the glitzy store displays.
6. Track your spending
Ever finish a day of holiday shopping and forget what you’ve bought? Set a reminder for yourself to check your banking app or spending tracker every few hours to keep an eye on where your money is going.
7. Donate
Donating money gives you a feel-good boost, and the difference your dollars can make can really put the rest of your ‘must have’ expenses in perspective.
8. Share the load
If you’re hosting on Christmas Day, ask others to bring food or drinks; don't feel like you need to bear all the costs of hosting. If you’re not hosting, offer to help out the person who is. They’ll appreciate the gesture.
9. Avoid credit
Keep an eye on your spending on credit, particularly if you have multiple cards and are a fan of buy now, pay later services. Try toTake out cash or use your debit card where possible to reduce the January credit card hangover.
10. Reduce, reuse, regift
Everyone’s got a drawer (or a whole cupboard…) of unwanted gifts that are still somehow too good to give away. A little thoughtful regifting is not only good for the environment, it’s a budget-friendly move.
11. Plan ahead
Start planning ahead for next year while the experience (read: stress) of organising this Christmas is still fresh in your mind. Who knows – you could pick up a few timeless gifts at bargain prices in those Boxing Day sales!
12. And finally – make merry!
‘What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!’ii Don’t focus on the purchases – the presents and the food, focus on the feelings. After all this should be a time to enjoy and you deserve to relax and experience the joys of the festive season.