Saving money at Christmas is something that everyone should aspire to do, especially when budgets are tight and the economy continues to sputter. But, did you know that you could have a cheap 2014 Christmas without necessarily having to sacrifice on the quality of the experience?
For many people, Christmas is literally the best time of the year; but it can also be one of the most expensive. The combined costs of gifts, meals, ornaments, decorations, trees and party outfits can reach astronomical rates, leaving some wondering if they can even afford to celebrate Christmas at all!
Fortunately, you can, as there are many ways you can cut back on your Christmas spending without having to compromise on the quality of your celebrations. If you’re struggling to cover Christmas costs this year, here are 10 inspiring cheap Christmas ideas to help you have an enjoyable yet affordable Christmas:
1. Let People Know You’re Cutting Back this Year
Avoid disappointment by letting your friends and family members know that you’re facing tough financial times and that you’ll be cutting back this year. Your family and friends should be more than understanding, and then be grateful for whatever it is that you can afford to give them. This level of honesty should allow you to save on Christmas without leaving family feeling upset.
2. Explore Homemade Options
If you take advantage of cheap homemade Christmas gifts, you should be able to give something to everyone on your list this year no matter how tight your Christmas budget is. There’s a plethora of ideas online which you can find through a quick Google search. These gifts may take a bit more time and effort than simply going to the store to pick out presents, but they will also save you a ton of money. What’s more, they’re likely to impress your gift recipients as they’ll feel like they’re getting something from the heart, rather than the pocket book.
3. Buy in Bulk
You could save a ton on holiday supplies and food by buying your items in bulk from stores such as Costco. Buying in bulk often allows you to save a lot, but it is only financially worthwhile if you’ve got a large group and if you keep your selection limited. Only buy items that you really need this holiday season, or you may find yourself purchasing a huge number of things that end up going bad.
4. Check out the Dollar Store
Maybe you’re familiar with the dollar store, or maybe not, but did you know that it’s a great way to save on Christmas essentials such as on cards, decorations, arts and crafts supplies and Christmas themed tableware? It’s also great for stocking stuffers and you may find that you can get a huge amount of your holiday shopping done here for a very small amount of money. Make sure to check one out!
5. Shop Online
For more pricey Christmas gifts, make sure to do some price checking online. Not only do online stores offer highly discounted rates during the holiday season, but many of them also offer free shipping and handling as well. If you’re unsure about a product, then use the “showroom” approach by visiting a retail store that caries it, check the thing out, then purchase it for less online.
6. Send e-Cards
You can also save a lot online by sending free e-cards rather than forking out for paper cards and postage. Many people send e-cards, so your recipients are unlikely view it as stingy, and they might even be more entertained than by receiving a paper card. You could save a small fortune by just sending free e-cards this year! Some amazingly artistic and in many cases humorous e-cards are available out there; take advantage of them!
7. Buy a Realistic Amount of Holiday Food
Most years you are probably left with a huge amount of leftovers after your Christmas meal has been finished, but this can easily be avoided by cutting back on your holiday food spending and only buying a realistic amount. You can still enjoy a scrumptious meal, but without having to see good foods go to waste. Calculate how much food you’ll actually need based on the number of people coming over, then get just enough for everyone to get a couple bites of each dish. Remember that overfeeding your guests is one sure-fire way to end the conversation and start the snooze fest!
8. Use Your Rewards Points
If you have a credit card, you’re likely enrolled in some kind of rewards points’ scheme. These points usually aren’t just for travel, but can also often be converted into gift cards, which may make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Or, alternatively, you could use the rewards points to purchase your Christmas gifts, food, decorations or other necessities. Cashing out on your rewards points may seem like a shame, but if it means saving Christmas this year, it may just be worth the sacrifice.
9. Enjoy Local Holiday Lights
The holidays don’t have to be bleak just because you can’t afford to go see a Christmas show or take an extended vacation. There are likely lots of free attractions in your neighborhood such as local holiday lights. Perhaps there’s a certain neighborhood in your area that goes all out on Christmas decorating each year? If so, go check it out with the family! This could be a fun and inexpensive outing that can help everyone get into the festive holiday spirit.
10. Watch Holiday Movies on the TV
Going to the movies after Christmas lunch or dinner may be a family tradition, but buying cinema tickets for your entire family may also put a major strain on your finances. If times are tough for you this year, swap holiday movie theater outings in exchange for watching DVR’d holiday movies in the comfort of your own home. All the classics are shown each year, so you’ll be bound to be able to record enough Christmas movie favorites to keep everyone thoroughly entertained on Christmas Day.
Car Capital Financial
Are you facing hard financial times this Christmas? Not sure how you will be able to pay for it all? Car Capital Financial may be able to help. We are a leading Southern California car title loans company with over 15 years of experience in the business.
We offer friendly, honest and affordable holiday loans in 2014 for those in need. If you’re interested in taking out a secured personal loan, please contact us at 1-888-500-9887 today. Loans are issued based on your ability to repay the loan.