Welcome to that time of year! Cozy indoors, red everything, and shopping. Being on a holiday budget can be difficult when you’re not used to it. Shopping for hosting, gifts and everything in between. It can get pretty expensive I must say. I’ve realized as a Millennial we have it hard especially, as parents. With all that, we all feel like we can’t get it together and it really becomes the most stressful time of the year. That’s why I’m here to encourage you on how to get through a Holiday Budget Challenge. With 10 things to do without breaking the bank.
When you have little ones, the never-ending money spending is always there. Plus the holidays are always a great way to stock up on so much. But then, you get the downfall of having to overspend already with gifts and parties.
Set up a holiday budget
- Set a holiday budget cap: When it comes to holiday gift shopping setting a budget on everyone is the way to go for the most part. That also includes Yankee swap and secret Santa.
- Purchase things that won’t be outgrown too quick. The inlaws always get him clothing. Plus we always go on a cruise every February so gift cards or items that can be taken along on vacation are always a plus.
- Budget and limit Holiday parties: Having to attend holiday parties can get expensive. From gifts, drinks, and food it can get pricey. Plan out where you will be visiting. Decide if you will be there for dessert or the whole meal.
- Make your own coffee at home: Our Keruig died and since I love specialty coffee so much my mother in law figured to gift me an early Christmas present. I officially own my very own K-Café® Single Serve Coffee, Latte & Cappuccino Maker. Saying I was excited was an understatement. Plus in the long run, I will spend less than $4-$6 a day for a caramel macchiato!
- Use rewards apps
- Scan when you are in store: Target’s app allows you to scan instore. Pricing will show any sales which can also reflect online too.
- Look online before just going anywhere. From Amazon, Kohl’s, Target and more.
- Take advantage of those holiday offers.
- Research delivery services.
- Use up those birthday gift cards to purchase gifts or treat yo self.
What are your holiday budget mishaps you need help with?
Shayla Marie
We are a big family of 8, so we have no choice but to budget our Christmas. These are such great and helpful idea’s to help people STAY on budget! I would love to hear more about the reward apps you suggest.
Monica
I keep telling myself I need to set a clear budget on gifts this year because I don’t want the stress of finances to rob me of the Christmas joy.
She's Got Cents
Making your own coffee is the big one for me! Otherwise I will spend a small fortune on cafes 🙂
Aminta
Thanks for these quick tips. It’s nice to have them all in one place right before the holidays.
Diana
I’m pretty good at budgeting. We have a set price limit for each person we shop for, so it makes it easy. That’s definitely way to go if you don’t want to spend too much!
Sarah
We haven’t gone overboard with our Holiday budget yet but I know my parents always did and as my kids get older I want to make sure we do well with not doing that. I love these suggestions.
Kim
Thanks for sharing these tips. I usually make a list in Excel with the amount I’m spending on each kid.
Monica
So important to stick to a budget. Great tips!!
Jackline A
Great tips. The holidays can be so expensive. It is so important to stick to a budget.
Jasmine Hewitt
great tips, so many people get in over their heads at the holiday season
Rikki Ridgeway
Yes, girl, yes! Creating a clear budget plan is my number one tip for anyone looking to save money on Christmas gifts.
Marysa
These are great ideas! It is nice to have some budgeting tips.. everything adds up so quickly and it is definitely a challenge.