Prepare for Christmas now! 7 tips for a stress-free holiday season

To many, Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, but it can also be the most financially challenging. A survey conducted by TopCashback suggested 26% of the people asked had less than £300 to cover all of their Christmas spending.

This on top of the current cost of living can understandably lead to an increase in anxiety during this period. Without proper planning, the expenses associated with gifts, decorations, travel, and feasting can quickly add up, leaving you stressed and financially burdened.

In this blog post, we will explore seven practical tips to help you financially prepare for Christmas, meaning you can have a joyous and stress-free holiday season without breaking the bank.

1. Create a budget so you know what’s there to spend

The first step in financially preparing for Christmas is setting a budget to determine how much you can afford to spend. It's essential to be realistic and honest about your budget to avoid overspending.

Divide your budget into different categories – gifts, decorations, food, holiday-related costs, etc. – and then allocate specific amounts for each. This way, you can keep track of your spending and avoid unnecessary splurges. Be mindful to include day-to-day expenses first.

2. Start saving early to avoid panic at the eleventh hour

Christmas comes around every year, so why not plan for it early? Consider setting up a dedicated savings pot for Christmas expenses. Starting early allows you to save a little each month, making it more manageable and preventing the financial strain that comes with last-minute purchases.

If you feel you’ve already left it late this year, that’s okay, as there’s nothing to stop you from planning for the next one.

3. Make a gift list so you can plan ahead

Before you start shopping, create a list of all the people you want to buy gifts for. Having a list will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buying. It will also reduce the chances of you buying unnecessary gifts. Consider discussing a spending limit with family and friends to ensure everyone's on the same page and prevent anyone from feeling pressured to overspend.

4. Consider DIY gifts to save money

Get creative and consider making some of your gifts. Homemade presents add a personal touch and are often appreciated more than store-bought items. Whether it's baking cookies, crafting handmade ornaments, or creating a photo album, DIY gifts can save you money while still spreading holiday cheer.

5. Take advantage of competitive deals

Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and special offers leading up to December, such as:

• Black Friday
• Cyber Monday
• Cashback sites
• Vouchers and discount codes
• Online shopping deals

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other festive sales events can be excellent opportunities to snag bargains on gifts and decorations. Sign up for newsletters and follow your favourite stores on social media to stay informed about upcoming deals.

Online shopping can be a convenient and cost-effective way to find the perfect gifts without the hassle of crowded stores and the possible temptation of other impulse purchases. Look for free shipping offers or consider opting for click-and-collect services to save on delivery fees.

6. Use Secret Santa or gift exchanges to reduce present overload

If your family or group of friends is large, consider suggesting a Secret Santa or gift exchange. With this approach, each person buys and receives one gift, reducing the financial burden while maintaining the joy of giving.

7. Set a deadline for Christmas shopping

Avoid leaving your shopping to the last minute when you might feel rushed and be less likely to stick to your budget. Set a deadline for when you want to have all your Christmas shopping done, allowing you to focus on the other festive activities leading up to it.

Financially preparing for Christmas doesn't have to be a daunting task. With careful planning, budgeting, and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a magical holiday season without stressing over finances.

It can be easy to forget the true meaning behind the festive season, and it’s not worth getting into debt over Christmas. If you do have concerns, or are struggling with debt, you can access free financial advice and support from a professional debt specialist. Visit Money Wellness, StepChange, Citizens Advice, National Debtline, or Money Helper to find out more.