When holidays arrive, you may find yourself in a cold sweat thinking of the money you’ll have to spend. Between holiday meals, decorations, social events and gifts, the financial impact of the season can really add up. Don’t fret! Money woes shouldn’t get in the way of your holiday glee. Try our tips to save money and celebrate in style without getting into debt.
- Make it yourself.
Maybe you’re in the habit of having holiday meals catered, renewing holiday décor or buying name-brand gifts for the people you love. Try a little DIY this year. Making meals at home can save you a lot of money. Décor can be recycled or made from inexpensive items like evergreen boughs, pine cones and candles. And when it comes to gifts, the adage is true: It means more when it comes from the heart. Homemade gifts show special care and are often the most treasured. - Watch for sales.
Be a savvy shopper and watch for sales before the holidays to catch items you need at a discount. Merchants often do giveaways this time of year or advertise with special savings and coupons, particularly if you join email lists for subscriber-only savings. Stick to your list to buy what you need and look for discount codes, coupons and special offers for holiday savings on the things you’d buy anyway. - Travel and pack light.
Traveling for the holidays is pricey, so do what you can to keep costs down. Bring carry-on luggage so you don’t have to pay for checked bags, and if you’re bringing gifts, try Visa Gift Cards so they don’t add to your load. Whether you’re traveling by plane, train or car, bring your own food and a reusable water bottle to get through travel without having to eat every meal out. - Enjoy all of the beautiful light displays!
Wherever you are in San Diego County, there’s sure to be a brilliant light display or two near you! San Diego Family Magazine created a list of 2017 must-see displays for you and your family. Grab the kids and hot cocoa and load up the car for a spin through festive light displays from Chula Vista to El Cajon to Oceanside and everywhere in between for a fun free activity sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
This can be an expensive time of year, but if you want to know how to save money and enjoy the season on a budget, follow these tips for a joyful holiday that doesn’t break the bank. That way, you can focus even more on celebrating holiday cheer and creating memories with your loved ones.
The content provided in this blog consists of the opinions and ideas of the author alone and should be used for informational purposes only. Mission Federal Credit Union disclaims any liability for decisions you make based on the information provided. References to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name in this article by Mission Federal Credit Union is for the information and convenience of its readers and does not constitute endorsement, control or warranty by Mission Federal Credit Union.
