#1. Don’t shop just before your vacation!
Now, let’s talk about holiday shopping, but let’s do it smart! First, that crazy dash to the store just before Christmas? Yes, I’ll skip it. You will find the chosen shelves and prices that will water your eyes. It is a well-known strategy for a company to lower the price without actually dropping it, or simply raise the price just before the holiday. That way, the store may look generous by giving you a discount.
- Instead, they shop during seasonal mid-season events and sales.
Seasonal sales that appear in autumn? That’s your golden ticket. Even if there are months before and months before the actual opportunity, you can still plan this and grab those presents. You’re well beyond the game and your wallet will thank you.
#2. Don’t buy an advent calendar or gift set!
Now those flashy advent calendars and gift sets? They look attractive, but often you pay premium for a clean packaging and a bunch of things you might not want. Plus, no one uses more than half of a travel-sized bottle. The most enthusiastic skincare enthusiast!
- Instead: DIY your own advent calendar!
Let’s be a little more creative! That’s what we do on a budget! DIY your own advent calendar. Picking up a small snack, Simply write down perfume gifts, candles, trinkets, or fun activities and memories throughout the year. Fill in your daily life with something personal and meaningful. It can be more thoughtful and perfectly tailored to the person you are giving it to.
Photo: Markus Spike
#3. Don’t buy gifts in one market!
It’s very easy to stay in your rut, especially when you find an idea for the “perfect” gift. But resist the urge to buy everything from one place! It’s a surefire way to miss out on a deal. I can’t imagine how many times I bought a birthday present.
- Instead, compare offers between different stores.
It takes a little time to compare prices across different stores, both online and in person. You may be surprised at how much money you can save just by doing a simple search. Plus, different stores often have unique choices, so you might stumble over a gift that is even better than you originally planned. There are plenty of useful online tools to compare retailers’ prices.
#4. Don’t give individual gifts to everyone you know!
There’s one more thing. There is no need to buy a unique individual gift for everyone on the list. It can be overwhelming and expensive.
- Instead, I suggest exchanging themes.
Not only is these small gift parties fun, they’re also a great way to save money and won’t be overwhelmed by the cost of your holiday. Here are some ideas you and your friends/co-workers might enjoy:
‣ Secret Santa: The most popular classic exchanges when participants draw names, purchase gifts for those assigned to them, and keep their identity a secret. This is perfect for larger groups as it reduces the number of gifts each person will buy.
‣ White Elephant (Yankee Swap, Dirty Santa): Everyone brings a gift wrapped around them, and participants will choose gifts in order and open. The “steal” element adds excitement and often adds humor. Don’t get too excited!
‣ Glove bag: Holiday presents will be placed in a large bag or pile, and participants will randomly choose one. This highlights the surprise and the opportunity for something to be really cool.
‣ Favorite things: Participants bring gifts representing one of their favorite items and exchange them with each other.
‣ Charitable donation exchange: Instead of buying individual gifts, you can choose to donate some money to a charity. This year we donated money via United 24 for Humanitarian Declaration. The quantity is not an issue. What matters is the general goals and dedication to the cause.
‣ Cookie Swap: It’s not a traditional gift exchange, but it’s a very popular exchange during the holidays. Cookies, donuts and healthy snacks can be baked and swapped with each other. Alternatively, you can donate your food to the shelter.
Photo: Ilayda 0700
#5. Don’t support large markets when buying gifts!
We’ve already discussed how difficult it can be to get caught up in the credit net into these big online markets, but we’re considering shifting your focus.
- Instead, buy gifts from thrift stores or local businesses.
Instead of supporting those giants, explore hidden treasures in local second-hand clothing stores and small businesses. The Thrift Store is a goldmine for unique and vintage discoveries that truly special gifts, and you can often find incredible deals. Plus, local shopping helps the community directly and helps small businesses thrive. It’s win-win!
#6. Don’t give it as a physical gift!
And here’s the contemporary twist of Gift Giving. You will completely throw away your physical presents and embrace the world of digital gifts. There are limitless possibilities to choose a valuable digital present without breaking your budget.
- Instead, we will give you a digital gift.
Consider giving an e-book with your favorite author, a subscription to a streaming service, or an online course that matches someone’s interests. Not only is digital gifts convenient, they are often more affordable, but also reduce waste and clutter. Plus, it can be delivered quickly, making it perfect for last minute gifts and those who live far away. It’s a thoughtful way to show care to you without adding anything physical.
Photo: RDNE Stock Project
#7. Don’t shop without a strategy:
Finally, stroll around the store and resist the urge to buy something spectacular. This is an over-expense recipe and there are plenty of random gifts.
- Instead, come up with a plan and follow it.
Sit down and make a plan. Who are you buying for? What do they actually need? Set a budget and stick to it. Write down your ideas before following them. By developing a strategy, you will stay focused on you and prevent the purchase of impulses that appear to occur all the time when you get caught up in a holiday rush.
Let’s sum up…
In a world of overconsumption, choosing to give with all your heart is a powerful statement. By adopting these cost-effective alternative approaches, you are not only saving money, but also contributing to a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle. Consider the environmental impact of your purchase and explore cheap gift options such as upcycle gifts, experience, and support from local artisans. These choices can bring something unique A personal touch to your gift While minimizing budget waste.
Source: January Girl – www.lizbreygel.com
