8 Ways to Avoid Overspending on Christmas Gifts

It’s easy to get sucked into the buzz of Christmas. These 8 ways to avoid overspending on Christmas gifts should help you keep your budget intact.

Welcome!

This is Day 9 of the 21 Days to a Stress Free & Debt Free Christmas.

I’m so excited that you are joining me for what I hope will be a really helpful series designed to walk with you step by step through the Christmas season in a way that ensures you keep your sanity and that you don’t overspend.

Today, we’re still talking about gift giving. But now that we have our Christmas gift list in place and we know our strategy for giving to our kids, it’s time to get out there and start the shopping. Before you do though, consider these 8 ways to avoid overspending on Christmas gifts.

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Now that you have a plan, it’s time to get started (if you haven’t already)!

1. Do your research at home

The internet is such an amazing resource when it comes to purchasing. You no longer have to run in and out of every store to compare prices or to see what sales are happening.

Be aware that store sales and web sales (as well as prices) may differ, but a little online research will set you in the right direction to avoid spending more than necessary on your items.

2. Follow at least (2) deal websites

Deal websites or coupon blogs are another huge resource when you are determining the best price on items. These bloggers post deals constantly (it’s their job – ha!), so a quick review each day should ensure you catch them.

If you sign up for their emails, many of them will alert you to the very best deals right away so that you can snag them before they sell out. Below are some of my favorites, in no particular order.

Southern Savers

Passion For Savings

Money Saving Mom

Passionate Penny Pincher

Hip 2 Save

You can follow as many as you’d like, but following more than a couple many might overwhelm you.

Warning: Remember to use your gift list and your budget when browsing these sites, so that you don’t inadvertently get sucked into buying more than you should.

3. Use an online rebate site for online shopping

This one will not save you money on the front end, but it will help you save on the back end. If you aren’t familiar with them, online rebate sites are a way for you to earn cash back on purchases you are already planning to make.

You start your “shopping trip” through their website and you will earn a percentage back (based on the retailer) on your purchase. I am only familiar with Rakuten, but I know there are others that work well. If you need to make the purchase anyway, why not at least earn a little cash back? It seems like a no-brainer to me.

4. Check daily deal websites

I am most familiar with Groupon, but I’ve had a good experience each time I’ve purchased. They send you daily emails and you can browse quickly in case any brands or items you are looking for might be included.

5. Don’t be afraid to buy used

Some people might put their nose up at the thought of purchasing used items for Christmas gifts, but I think it’s certainly a valid option, especially for young children. When they are little, you can find some great used toys that work just as well as brand new. Buying them gently used combined with a little clean up job usually makes them look close to new.

I think this is also a great option for more expensive electronics such as video game consoles. Most kids who are dying to have a game system would rather have a used one than none at all.

6. Make some items yourself

With all the tutorials online, the options are endless when it comes to making your own presents. There are some really cute ideas out there that would cost a lot of money to have made custom. Just a little research and bravery would help you save a bundle. You can make all sorts of crafts as well as perishable items such as baked goods.

7. Give the gift of your time or skill

Who says that gifts always have to be tangible? Some of the best gifts I’ve received are free babysitters or free meals. Feel free to get creative and think of ways that your time or your special skill might bless your gift recipients. I’ve painted numerous rooms at my sister’s home as a gift.

8. Don’t linger

It’s easy to get caught up in the emotion and excitement of Christmas shopping. Getting in and out of stores quickly is your ticket to avoid overspending. If you linger too long, you might get sucked into the abyss of holiday marketing. Have your plan in place and get it done before you can even be tempted to spend more.

It can be easy to get caught up in the fun of shopping, but don’t let it cause you to overspend or wind up in debt after Christmas is over. These simple strategies will help you avoid overspending on Christmas gifts to you have no regret in January!

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