Alright, let’s talk budget-friendly holiday shopping tips—because if you’re anything like me, you love to spoil your people. Family, friends, pets…no one’s safe from the avalanche of love I’m ready to sprinkle during the season. But as the family grows, priorities shift, and let’s face it, life gets expensive, I’ve had to get a little savvier with my spending.
The average person spends around $900 on gifts alone during the holidays. Nine hundred! That’s not even counting the festive feasts, glittering décor, or the must-have outfits for all those holiday soirées. (Seriously, who is setting these “averages”?) Meanwhile, I’m over here imagining how much cuter my savings account would look with that extra $900.
But before you panic and start Googling “DIY holiday gifts,” let me tell you—it is possible to shower your loved ones with thoughtful gifts and still save some cash for yourself. With a little creativity, planning, and a dash of strategy, you can rock this holiday season without turning your wallet into a ghost of Christmas past.
Here are 5 Budget-friendly Holiday Shopping Tips
So, here are five foolproof tips to keep your holiday spending on point while making sure your generosity game stays strong:
Set a Budget, Stick to It
Yes, it’s cliché, but budgets are your BFF during the holidays. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending on gifts, food, and festivities, and then commit to it. Apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help keep you accountable. Jason Higgs, Senior Deals Strategist at Proxy Coupons, suggests, “Set a budget and prioritize your own financial well-being rather than giving in to peer pressure and overspending. It may seem ‘cheap’ at the time, but your bills will be more manageable come next month.”
This is where my challenge is. I think doing this helps me to really regulate what I do and do not have in my life. And as much as I love my niece and nephews, I need to make sure that I do not find myself living tight because auntie went overboard. What is my budget this year? I am not sure… I have to calculate! *looks back at the average holiday spend*
Shop Early (and Smart)
The earlier you start, the better the deals. Keep an eye out for sales, use price-comparison apps, and don’t be afraid to shop at discount stores or online marketplaces. Waiting until the last minute is a surefire way to spend more. I know some folks who keep a stash of gifts (hi mom) in a closet in their homes, and throughout the year they add to the pile.
So, rather than spending major dollars upfront, my mother takes advantage of sales and scores throughout the year! I stole this tip from her when I saw how she shops for my niece and nephews! Brilliant! It does take some planning, but if done right, well… you avoid the mall rush, can pre-wrap throughout the year and no one is the wiser.
Consider Group Gifting
Big-ticket gifts can be more manageable when you split the cost with friends or family. Think about pooling resources for that one “wow” gift instead of buying multiple smaller ones.
Give the Gift of Experiences
Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things but memories. Look into affordable experiences like local cooking classes, a family movie night, or even a cozy DIY spa kit for your bestie.
Use Cash-Back and Reward Programs
Don’t sleep on those loyalty points! Whether it’s credit card rewards or cash-back apps like Rakuten, these perks can stretch your dollars further. You’re spending the money anyway—why not get a little bonus back?
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With these budget-friendly holiday shopping tips in your back pocket, you’ll be able to tackle the holidays with confidence, save some serious coin, and maybe even splurge a little on yourself. After all, you deserve a treat too! Let’s make this season the most joyful—and budget-friendly—one yet. 🎄💸
Jason also shares, “Always remember that the holiday season is not about material possessions. It’s about spending time with loved ones and creating cherished memories. Instead of focusing on purchases, prioritize experiences and quality time with family and friends. This should improve your financial health and bring more joy and meaning to the holiday season.”
These are just five budget-friendly holiday shopping tips and ways that you can approach the holiday season with a bit more confidence and joy, knowing what your limits are, what you are working with and how to navigate through it all…
Did I miss a tip of yours? How do you navigate through it all?
Let’s discuss!
