12 economical ways of Christmas
According to Lloyds TSB Airmiles, 80 per cent of us say that we will have less money to spend on Christmas this year. That is hardly surprising, but having less cash doesn't mean that we have to have less fun and treats
You really can afford Christmas without creating a debt headache in January, particularly if you start early. Even now, there is still time to save money and find cheap ways to afford the festive season. Just follow these tips and you will be able to have a good Christmas on a budget.
1. Use your points
This is the time to use your Boots, Airmiles and Nectar points to buy gifts. Also, use your Tesco points in their special catalogue where you can get good deals on things like jewellery, restaurants and days out, which are all good for Christmas presents.
2. Create your own 'gift boxes'
Pound shops and other budget stores sell small wicker baskets and often nice-looking toiletries you can put in them. Alternatively, see what's selling at your local market on the cosmetics stalls. Some tissue paper, ribbon and cellophane finishes it off. Or, if you are clever in the kitchen, bake some Christmas goodies and put them in the basket.
3. Do it in bits
Start your Christmas food shopping now. Buy one or two extra non-perishable things each time you go to the supermarket and it won't be so costly nearer the time. Have a special box or cupboard just for the Christmas food that no one touches until December 25th.
4. Make things
Friends and relatives will often appreciate something you have made more than the usual bought stuff. If money is really tight, then give the gift of time. Do a nice card that encloses a 'voucher' for some time that you will give them.
Maybe it's a manicure for your best friend or three nights' baby-sitting for your brother or a day out with you for your gran. Older people in particular often prefer a present of your time rather than the usual bath salts.
1 | 2 | next
printer friendly
send to a friend
Delicious
Digg
reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
DietAnotherDay| Horoscopes| Message Boards | Quizzes | Newsletters | Join
iVillage Ltd is a UK company registered in England & Wales (3837269) at 80-110 New Oxford Street, London WC1 1HB
