We all know how expensive Christmas is and it can make the festive season that little bit more stressful. Here are our best budgeting tips for Christmas.
When you have lots of places to be and people to see the expenses can add up over the week or two. However, there are some ways to plan and budget for the festive season and the inevitable days out over Christmas.
Here are some budgeting tips to help you along the way:
Bring your own.
When you are heading out for family fun days, there are opportunities to save on expensive lunches or drinks by simply bringing your own. The weather may dictate if you can sit outside, but having a flask full of hot chocolate for the kids and one full of coffee for the adults can be a way to save a few euros. To make it more appealing, bring along some of the marshmallows (that the kids love) and nice biscuits to accompany it. For longer trips, make up some festive foodie treats like homemade sausage rolls, festive quiches or turkey/ham sandwiches.
Bake up a storm.
When you are visiting friends or family, you may feel the pressure to bring along some goodies but buying packs of biscuits and sweets can work out expensive, depending on how much you need. Save yourself some money by buying things you need to make festive biscuits and handmade chocolates or truffles. Invest in a few jars or tins to pack them away and tie them up with bows and gift tags. These gifts are usually well-received, and are super budget-friendly.
Know your budget.
There will be times when you will have to spend money and some occasions/events mean a little outlay, but they can be balanced with free events like trips to the park or walks in the woods. Before you hit the height of the festive season, consider the places you want to go and the places you need to go to with the kids. Book tickets where you can so you can manage the expenses more and put aside money for the day itself. If you have a big family day out that costs a bomb, spend the next few days doing free things.
Talk to your family.
It is ok to say you can’t go to something as it is out of your budget and one thing you shouldn’t do is let yourselves get into debt to please your kids. There are lots of fun things to do around Christmas and ways to enjoy festivities without breaking the bank. Choose the big splurge event and then pick and choose things you can do for less. If your children are old enough, sit them down now and chat about what they would like to do and look at your budget to decide how to make it happen without leaving yourself stuck for money in the new year.
Look for deals.
Pay attention to deals for places that may save you a lot of money. Getting something at the last minute may throw your original plans into chaos but if the deal is a good one, it may be worth it. Last-minute deals can be a great way to make the most of the festive season but remember if there is something your family really wants to do, you may not be able to wait to book as it may sell out quickly.
What are your Christmas budgeting tips?