Avoid These 5 Extra Expenses During Christmas

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During Christmas, it might feel like the expenses are adding up. No matter what you do, the list of extras seems to pop out of nowhere. Since you’re already spending hundreds of dollars on gifts and Christmas dinner, you’ll want to save any way you can. For the money-savvy holiday spender, you’ll want to make cuts, so you don’t struggle next year with expenses you incurred over Christmas.

Here are 5 extra expenses you can avoid during Christmas.

Elaborate Christmas Decorations

Christmas decorations can put you in the right holiday mood, but it’s not necessary to blow your budget and get too fancy with the decorations. There’s no harm in keeping it simple – an elegant tree and lights that you use every year will do the trick. If you need to replace your tree, then adjust your budget and make cuts so you can add it to your expenses.

Too Much Wrapping Paper

An excessive amount of wrapping paper can be bad for the environment, as well as costly and labor-intensive. That’s where gift bags come into play. The best part is you can reuse them year after year. If you don’t have gift bags, try to budget for wrapping paper accordingly and don’t buy too much.

If you are new to budgeting and don’t know where to begin, resources from companies that specialize in payday loans will help you with budgeting tips. That way, you can enjoy the holidays without overspending. Budgeting can assist in managing your finances better, and there are a variety of apps you can use that will help you in making quality financial decisions, like Mint or Spendee.

Going Over-the-Top with Food

Families always look forward to the Christmas feast, and there’s no harm in splurging for the main event. There are other ways you can cut costs that month so you can afford Christmas dinner. If you enjoy your daily peppermint coffee at your local cafe or eat lunch out every day, you can cut back on these indulgences for the month to save the extra money.

Party Clothes

Holiday parties are nonstop during the Christmas season. There may be one party after another, and you want to look your best. However, buying a new outfit for every party can be out of your budget. If you don’t want to wear the same dress or suit as last year, you’ll have to hunt for a good deal or take advantage of sales.

Christmas Cards for Every Single Person You Know

Christmas cards are getting more expensive every year, and buying them for everyone you know will add to your costs. It may be tempting to send a card to many people to let them know you care, but there may be a more effective way to do so.

To save money, set up your tripod and self-timer or ask a friend to take a photo of you and your family. These types of cards are generally cheap to print, or you could get a packaged deal from a printing company.

It’s essential to remember that Christmas is a time about family and celebrating with your loved ones. Saving money and budgeting around the holidays is a plan you can get behind, and will reduce any potential stress.