Inside: Discover a treasure trove of savings during Amazon Prime Days 2023! Maximize your budget, snag the best bargains, and embark on the journey of a financially savvy shopper.
In the pursuit of Money Bliss, making thoughtful and strategic purchasing decisions is key.
If you’ve been eyeing that item on your wishlist or contemplating a purchase that aligns with your needs, Amazon Prime Days might just be the opportune moment to turn that desire into a savvy financial decision.
Amazon Prime Days offers a limited-time chance to acquire the items you need while keeping a firm grip on your budget.
So, go ahead, explore the Prime Day deals, and let the thrill of savings elevate your journey toward financial well-being.
Remember, it’s not just about what you buy—it’s about how wisely you buy it.
Make sure you scroll all of the way to the bottom of this post! I captured ideas from real people on what they want for the Amazon Prime Days 2023!
Happy shopping!
When Are Amazon Prime Days 2023?
Amazon Prime Days 2023 are October 10 and October 11.
Why Shop Amazon Prime Days?
Here’s why navigating the digital aisles during Amazon’s annual shopping extravaganza can be a brilliant move for your wallet and your quest for savings.
1. Irresistible Discounts:
Amazon Prime Days are synonymous with jaw-dropping discounts and deals. Whether it’s electronics, home essentials, or personal care items, the prices often take a dip that’s hard to resist.
This presents a golden opportunity to snag that coveted item you’ve been eyeing at a significantly lower cost, instantly contributing to your maximizing savings.
2. Strategic Timing for Big Purchases:
If your intended purchase is a substantial one—perhaps a new gadget, appliance, or even furniture—Amazon Prime Days provides a strategic window for major savings.
By aligning your buying decision with this event, you can make that big-ticket item more budget-friendly, helping you stay on track with your financial goals.
3. Bundled Offers and Exclusive Launches:
Amazon Prime Days often come with exclusive launches and bundled offers. Whether it’s a combination deal on related products or early access to new releases, these perks can enhance the overall value of your purchase.
By capitalizing on these special offerings, you not only save money but also potentially gain more for your investment.
Special pricing will only be reflected during Amazon Prime Days. As deals are dropping every five minutes!
4. Prime Day-Exclusive Benefits:
Being a Prime member comes with its own set of privileges, and Prime Days amplify these benefits.
From lightning deals to free shipping, the exclusivity of these discounts adds an extra layer of value to your purchases.
Deals start early for Amazon Prime Members too!
5. Kickstart Your Holiday Shopping:
For the savvy planner, Amazon Prime Days serve as an excellent opportunity to jumpstart your holiday shopping. Or finish up your Christmas shopping like my friend, Kaitlyn.
By taking advantage of discounted prices during this event, you can spread out your expenses and avoid the last-minute holiday shopping rush, ensuring a stress-free and budget-friendly festive season.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Popular Amazon Prime day Deals
Best Seller
TMY Mini Projector
The V08 mini projector includes a 100″ projection screen that is tailored to meet your needs. Set up your own home theater anywhere to watch movies, TV shows, photos, slide shows, and play video games.
Another hot family Christmas gift!
Buy Now on Amazon
Get Prime Day Deal
10/24/2023 12:02 am GMT
Spoil Yourself with These
My Favorite
Prime Day Deals For Home
Kitchen Steals
Most Wished For
50-piece Food storage Containers Set
$44.99 $39.99
These containers are refrigerator, freezer, microwave safe, stain-resistant and dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.
Perfect for portion sizing and includes sticky labels and a chalk pen for great for kitchen & pantry organization and storage.
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Get Prime Day Deal
10/24/2023 04:47 am GMT
Fashion Steals
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With Kids
For Our Treasured Pets
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Travel Essentials
When You Can’t Find it in Your Buy Nothing Group
Okay, I asked my local Buy Nothing Group what the most wanted items they wanted on Amazon Prime Days and they let me know. Here are a few of their wants.
And if you don’t know what a Buy Nothing group is… It is a local group focused on ways to give away, lend, or share anything to keep it out of landfills! You can find your local group on Facebook.
Popular Want
Thule Universal Ski & Snowboard Rack
$199.95 $175.00
Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier Fully locking rooftop snowsport carrier holds skis and boards securely with ultra-soft rubber arms that grip without scratching the surfaces.
Thule is a great product and rarely is discounted!
Buy Now on Amazon
10/24/2023 07:47 am GMT
Because You Need to Stock up
Time to Shop Those Amazon Prime Days Before They Are GONE!
As the curtain falls on Amazon Prime Days 2023, seize the moment and secure the deals that beckon to your savvy shopper’s soul.
The virtual aisles are teeming with savings, and the time is ripe to claim what your budget permits.
Remember, the thrill of a great deal lingers far longer than the sting of an impulse purchase.
So, shop wisely my friends, prioritize your needs, and relish the joy of snagging the best bargains.
Make sure you act swiftly before the deals vanish into the digital abyss, and may your purchases bring not just instant gratification but lasting Money Bliss.
Happy shopping, frugal budget maestros!
Now, All of the Amazon Insider Information:
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Inside: Looking to celebrate Christmas on a budget? This guide has you covered with creative and affordable ways to do just that.
Are you stressed out about how to afford a fabulous Christmas on your budget? Worry not.
This festive season isn’t about how much cash you fork out, it’s about creating lasting memories and spreading joy.
Why let financial woes dampen the joyous yuletide spirit when you can celebrate a charming Christmas on a budget?
Remember, it’s your money, your decisions, and your rules – no guilt trips or social pressures should force you into spending Christmas in debt.
Today you will learn:
Determine your Christmas budget: Figure out what’s a comfortable amount for you to spend and stick to it religiously.
Be creative with gift giving: Homemade presents or heartfelt letters can be more valuable than pricey items.
Find simple ways to save money: Use these money saving tips to enjoy a festive holiday season.
This holiday season, celebrate responsibly, within your means, for a Christmas that’s merry, bright, and totally guilt-free!
Why Celebrate Christmas on a Budget?
Embracing a budget-friendly Christmas can prove to be not only a smart choice but one filled with warmth, delight, and genuine joy.
Enjoy valuable family bonding time with exciting games and shared activities. Volunteer work, a day of holiday baking, or a simple drive-through Christmas lights sightseeing trip can leave a lasting impression. Look through this Christmas bucket list.
Opt for economical, yet thoughtful gifts or stick to fun gift exchange rules, such as the “four gift rule” for your kids. Remember, it’s the sentiment behind the gift that matters the most.
In essence, an economical holiday season needn’t be a dull affair, rather it’s an opportunity to make it more heartfelt and unforgettable.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What to buy for Christmas on a tight budget?
Yes, friend, you can buy meaningful Christmas gifts while sticking to a budget.
In fact, the thought behind a gift is often what makes it special, not the price tag.
A few ideas include homemade gifts, gift cards, subscriptions, and second-hand items. With a little creativity, you can find the perfect present for everyone on your list without spending a fortune.
Below you will find plenty of great gift guides for Christmas that won’t break the bank.
Benefits of a Budget Christmas
1. Allows you to plan ahead and stay on track 2. Prevents overspending 3. Buy gifts that are within your budget 4. Focus on quality over quantity 5. Ensures that everyone gets a gift 6. Helps you avoid debt during the holidays 7. Prevents you from feeling stressed out about money during the holidays 8. Be creative and come up with unique gifts 9. Save for next year’s holiday budget 10. Stay connected to the spirit of the holidays
Savings with Christmas on a Budget
From homemade Christmas decorations to unique gift ideas, it’s possible to create magical moments that’ll last a lifetime without a hefty price tag.
Embrace the true spirit of Christmas – love, family, and togetherness, rather than commercialism, and read on to discover how.
Learn the simple ways to celebrate the festive season without breaking the bank with our creative and budget-friendly Christmas ideas.
1. Think about a No Gift Christmas
Having a No Gift Christmas is a creative and budget-saving alternative to traditional holiday festivities, especially suitable if funds are tight. Why not consider it?
Here are some benefits:
You can alleviate the holiday stress often associated with spending on gifts.
It fosters the idea of Christmas as a season of togetherness, not just gift-giving.
It offers the potential for unique and memorable experiences, like volunteering or creating fun traditions with your loved ones.
Remember, having a memorable Christmas doesn’t have to cost much, or anything at all Learn more about a no gift Christmas.
2. Make Your Own Gifts
DIY Christmas gifts are your perfect solution. They not only save pennies but are laced with your love and creativity.
Start by exploring plenty of creative gift ideas available for free online. Need help? Look for “homemade gifts for Christmas” and you’ll be surprised.
Compile a list of possible gifts from homemade candles to personalized coupon books, keeping the recipient’s likes in mind.
Remember, your efforts will reflect in your gift. So, unleash your creativity and let the magic begin.
3. Borrow Instead of Buy
Borrowing instead of buying is a clever way to have a festive holiday while keeping things budget-friendly. This concept is simple: swap decorations, games, or even gifts with friends, neighbors, or family
Discuss your idea with your circle and organize swapping parties to exchange items.
The key is to creatively engage and make it a fun, budget-conscious activity. After all, Christmas is about sharing and caring!
Remember, return borrowed items in their original condition to maintain trust.
4. Attend Free Events
The Christmas season doesn’t have to be a strain on your wallet. Attending free community events can provide fun and festive celebrations:
To find these events, check your local newspaper or community websites. Be sure to:
Take advantage of free refreshments, but also bring your own to share.
Consider hosting a potluck dinner before or after community events.
Attending free events supports your local community.
Remember, Christmas is about togetherness, not extravagant spending.
5. Make Your Own Decorations
To create a festive atmosphere this season, you could repurpose items around your house or make your own decorations.
Choose a color theme and gather items in those shades, then place them together on a mantel or coffee table to create a coordinated layout.
For a natural touch, clip pine needles, branches, or herbs from your garden, and enhance them with glitter.
Additional budget-friendly options include taking advantage of sales and discounts at thrift stores or crafting handmade decorations such as ribbons from fabric strips or Christmas cookie ornaments.
6. Keep Track of Your Christmas Expenses
Just like throughout the year, budgeting is critical to your financial success.
Nothing changes with Christmas, it is crucial to track and budget your holiday expenses. Jot down every potential cost – from the Christmas tree, and food, to holiday décor.
Be thoughtful about what you really need and opt for items you can use for years.
This is one of the cash envelope categories I recommend saving for. To effectively manage your expenses, assign specific dollar amounts to each item on the list, ensuring you stay within your budget.
Enjoy guilt-free spending and effortless saving with a friendly, flexible method for managing your finances.
Start Your Free Trial.
7. Share the Spirit
Embracing frugality during the holiday season can not only help you save money, but can also create memorable experiences and meaningful connections.
Small gestures, such as sending heartwarming physical letters to loved ones instead of emails, can still convey thoughtfulness and spur the holiday spirit.
By centering your holidays around family activities and endeavors, like homemade ornaments or a scavenger hunt with small gifts, the focus shifts from materialism to fellowship and unity.
Find more frugal Christmas ideas.
8. Check Out Bargain Stores
Bargain stores provide the perfect solution for savvy holiday shoppers looking to save money without compromising on quality or variety. Not only can you find unique, quirky gifts, but you can also keep a lid on your spending while doing so.
Stores like consignment shops or websites such as Craigslist often have high-quality used toys that are nearly new if you’re willing to look carefully.
Another option is to look at discount retailers like TJMaxx as they often host sales during the holiday season, making it even easier for you to save money while hunting for the perfect gifts.
9. Save Money Throughout the Year
Automating your savings for the Christmas season can be a practical and efficient strategy. The 100 envelope challenge is perfect for this!
By setting aside just $50 each month, you could accumulate up to $600 by December, providing a decent budget for your holiday expenses. This method can ease the financial stress during the holiday season, letting you enjoy the festivities without worrying about overspending.
Consider setting up automatic transfers to a high-interest savings account. This ensures your Christmas funds grow without your intervention.
Lastly, try a no-spend month where you only cover essential bills, giving your savings a significant boost.
10. Start a Side Hustle for More Money to Spend
Engaging in side hustles throughout the year can help you significantly cover your holiday expenses.
By delivering food, completing microtasks, selling gently used items, or shoveling snow, you create extra earnings that can go directly into your Christmas fund.
For instance, extra income from a seasonal retail job could help finance gift-purchasing without straining your usual budget.
This strategy not only prevents potential post-holiday debt but also allows you to enjoy the season without financial stress.
In fact, more people are interested in how to make money online for beginners.
This is the perfect side hustle if you don’t have much time, experience, or money.
Many earn over $10,000 in a year selling printables on Etsy. Learn how to get started by watching this free workshop.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a full-time income while working from home, you’re in the right place!
This intensive training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business, and the power of a coach who has helped thousands of students launch and grow their own business from scratch.
11. Shop Online Instead of Going to the Mall
Shopping online for your Christmas gifts can seriously ease your holiday stress, and potentially save you money.
Let’s explore why skipping the mall and clicking your way to a merry Christmas might be your best bet this year:
No dealing with holiday crowds or cranky shoppers.
Enjoy sales and deals without leaving your home.
Track prices over time to grab the best deals.
Use Rakuten to save even more money on purchases.
For smart online shopping, prepare a list of gifts before diving in. Take advantage of the “wish list” option on platforms to curate items of choice and make sure you first glance over deal sites before making purchases.
12. Have a Christmas Potluck
Host a festive potluck! Invite friends and family, asking each to bring their favorite dish.
Here are some tips for a successful event:
Get organized and ask guests to bring specific types of food. This prevents duplicate dishes and ensures a balanced meal.
Introduce a fun element. Try a cookie swap or a silly game like “Guess the Cookie.”
Keep decor simple. A large vase filled with greenery and baubles can effectively replace a pricey Christmas tree.
Remember simplicity is key in food and decor. Costly ingredients and complicated recipes aren’t prerequisites for a memorable Christmas.
Remember, the holiday is about togetherness, not extravagance!
13. Make Your Own Cookies
There’s a unique pleasure derived from making your own cookies during the holiday season instead of buying them. More so, the cookies you’ve invested your time and creativity into can double as thoughtful, homemade gifts, adding another level of sentiment.
Apart from being a cost-effective option, it brings an opportunity to bond with friends and family during cookie exchange or decorating gatherings.
Making your personally crafted cookies also gives you control over ingredients catering to specific dietary needs or preference
Indeed, making your own cookies adds value that surpasses the mere cost savings, it infuses the holiday season with warmth, joy, and a sense of shared experience.
14. Cross Off Activities from your Christmas Bucket List
Having a joyful Christmas doesn’t necessarily mean overspending. In fact, integrating cost-effective activities into your holiday routine can make the season more meaningful and fun.
This Christmas Bucket list post offers an extensive and diverse list of creative ideas for budget-friendly Christmas shopping, gifting, and celebrating.
Additionally, downloading the free printables and a Christmas Budget Template will make the process even more manageable and fun.
15. Have a No-Gift Party
A no-gift Christmas party is an affordable and fun holiday celebration where attendees do not exchange gifts. It’s a great option for those looking to save money and still enjoy the festive season.
Here are steps to make it happen:
Step 1: Decide on the party type, either a simple gathering or a potluck dinner.
Step 2: Inform guests about the no-gift policy in advance.
Step 3: Organize exciting, cost-effective activities such as a game night.
Step 4: Engage guests with games for a joyful event.
Expert Tip: Conversation and laughter are your best tools.
16. Make a Christmas Memory Book
Creating a Christmas memory book is an affordable and engaging way to celebrate the holiday season, especially when you’re on a tight budget.
To start, you can utilize items already at your disposal in your house such as old photos, greeting cards, and crafts.
Spend some time penning down heartfelt messages and your favorite holiday memories associated with each picture or craft. Embellish the pages with affordable decorating materials like glitter, stickers, or color pens.
Not only does this create a personalized touch, but it also serves as a nostalgic keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.
Tip: Digitize your memory book by creating an electronic version. This can also help preserve the original items.
17. Spend Time With Loved Ones
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping on the fun.
It’s about cherishing time spent with loved ones, harnessing creativity, and making priceless memories that last a lifetime.
Here are some cost-effective activities you can embrace this festive season:
Share stories of memorable Christmas experiences.
Organize virtual celebrations with extended family and friends.
Create your own family-themed board game.
Bake Christmas cookies or make a popcorn Christmas tree.
Stream a Christmas church service.
If snow is around, engage in snow play.
Dance to classic Christmas music.
Put together an annual family calendar.
Participate in one of these Christmas Challenges!
Remember, it’s not about what’s under the tree that matters, but rather, who’s around it.
18. Stash Christmas presents all year
Do what I do! Begin addressing the issue of holiday budgeting by stashing Christmas presents all year round.
This is a smart and stress-reducing move!
Find deals throughout the year rather than spending lavishly in December. Hang on to items like discounted gifts in your secret gift closet!
As you build an inventory of diverse items, you will be ready for birthdays or sudden party invites – you’re always prepared!
Just be careful to stop shopping when your list is fulfilled to avoid overspending.
19. Write a Christmas Gift List
Creating a Christmas gift list can be an effective way to manage your holiday spending. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Start by writing down the names of every person for whom you consider buying a gift.
Then, determine how much you’re willing and able to spend on each individual. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Take time to brainstorm potential gift ideas within your decided budget for each person. This process can be even easier and more informative if you’re able to reference a gift list from previous years.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that your total intended spending is reasonable and manageable for your personal financial situation.
Remember, you may not need to buy gifts for everyone on your list – some individuals might appreciate homemade or free gifts just as much.
20. Choose Great holiday things to do for less
Set aside the societal notion of linking the joy of holidays to copious spending, and welcome small, inexpensive, yet heartfelt gestures.
Adopting a mindset that finds value in low-cost or even free activities, especially during the holiday season, can not only alleviate financial pressure but also create cherished memories.
Instead of focusing on extravagance and materialistic desires, turning attention to experiences and emotional bonding can revolutionize the celebration!
You can always find things to do on Christmas Day.
21. Think Outside the Box With Gifts
Finding affordable gifts doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or thoughtfulness.
By utilizing a gift guide such as the 4 gift rule – something they want, need, to wear, or read – you can ensure a well-rounded and meaningful set of gifts for each child.
Alternately, consulting lists of inexpensive yet creative suggestions like those curated by Money Bliss can help you find unique presents that won’t break the bank. These affordable finds range from books, gadgets, to personal care items, and home accessories.
Regardless of budget, the key to successful gift-giving lies in understanding the recipient’s needs and interests.
22. Consider Re-Gifting
Re-gifting is a practical, budget-friendly, and environmentally-friendly way to celebrate Christmas. It allows unused or unwanted items another chance to be appreciated and might save you some cash too.
Here are some regifting tips:
Ensure the gift is in good condition, unwanted but quality, and not linked back to its original giver.
Consider the preferences of the new recipient, ensuring the gift suits them.
Completely re-wrap the gift to give it a fresh appearance.
Some may debate the etiquette of re-gifting but remember, it’s more about the thought and less about where the gift originated.
Making smart choices can ensure a successful and fun re-gifting experience this festive season.
23. Use Gift Cards or Cash App to Stay on Budget
Purchase a prepaid gift card from your favorite store to ensure you’re limiting your spending to a specific amount and preventing the temptation of overspending.
If you’re planning to shop from a range of places, opt for a Mastercard of Visa prepaid card. While there may be an activation fee, it’s ultimately going to be less than what you’d potentially overspend.
Another great option is using the Cash App card and learn where you can load your Cash App card.
Also, you can use budget tracker apps like YNAB or Simplifi. These can help you meticulously keep track of your spending and stay within your budget.
Remember, the key is to stick to a budget and avoid falling prey to impulsive purchases. Using gift cards or these budgeting apps makes it easier to limit and monitor your expenses.
24. Use Money Gift Ideas Wisely
Money gift ideas can be an excellent alternative to traditional presents, especially when budgeting is a critical aspect.
Too many times, money gift ideas are overlooked as impersonal, but a money gift box or money cake will definitely surprise the recipient.
This will guarantee you will stay within your target budget by using money gift ideas.
For larger families, a gift exchange with a set price limit can keep costs manageable.
25. Donate to Charity Or Volunteer
Volunteering at a charity is a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season that doesn’t put a strain on your budget.
Instead of buying more items a person may not need, you’re investing time, money, and energy in causes they care about. Although this doesn’t require a financial commitment, it’s a generous gift full of sentiments.
Furthermore, donating money to a charity in someone’s name is a thoughtful and effective way to honor someone who already has everything they need. It allows the recipient to feel the joy of giving, yet remains a budget-friendly option for the giver.
If you’re keen on frugal yet meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas, how about considering charitable donations? It’s a splendid alternative to traditional gift-giving – not hard on your wallet, plus it makes a difference!
Most people know it is hard enough to buy gifts for the woman you who has everything or kids who have everything.
How to Make a Christmas Budget
A lot of joy and goodwill is associated with the holiday season; however, it also brings with it the challenge of managing finances meticulously to avoid slipping deep into credit card debt.
One of the effective ways to keep your finances under control during this festive time is by creating an efficient Christmas budget.
In the following sections, we will delve in detail into the simple process of creating a feasible Christmas budget that you can adhere to.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Spend on Christmas
Determining how much to spend at Christmas depends on your individual budget and financial situation.
On a general basis, most people will overspend at Christmas in order they don’t look broke or not generous.
However, that thought process is backward if you are trying to reach your financial goals. You need to decide on how much you want to spend at Christmas time.
That is why these consumable gifts tend to be popular.
Expert Tip: Avoid surpassing your Christmas budget to prevent feeling the pinch of holiday debt later on. Stick to your allocations and plan things out in advance.
Step 2: Make a List of Christmas Gifts
Creating a list is essential for budget-friendly and stress-free Christmas shopping.
This prevents you from forgetting someone important by intuitively documenting all the people you intend to get gifts for. Also, allows for the clear allocation of your total Christmas budget, preventing overspending on some individuals and under-spending on others.
If you aim to economize, consider the 4-gift rule: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. This method provides thoughtful gifts for children while maintaining a manageable budget.
More importantly, a well-planned list significantly reduces the time spent shopping and aids in buying gifts early before the holiday rush begins.
Expert Tip: Don’t forget to consider items like stocking stuffers, last-minute gifts, or teacher’s gifts, and the cost of extra food for holiday gatherings.
Step 3: Prioritize Your Spending
Prioritizing where to spend money relative to your financial goals is crucial to achieving long-term financial stability and health. It ensures that your money is allocated effectively, giving priority to necessities and matters that directly support your objectives.
This practice can also prevent unnecessary expenditures and helps in averting serious overspending, especially during high-spending periods like the Christmas season.
Thus, you will need to prioritize your Christmas budget before the festive season. It helps prevent overspending and keeps you debt-free.
Step 4: Limit Your Christmas Spending
First, it is important to abandon the notion of a “perfect Christmas” and focus on enjoying the holiday within your budget.
You can even educate your family members about the concept of holiday budgeting and involve them in your planning process.
Consider proposing less expensive alternatives to traditional gift-giving within your extended family such as handmade or recycled gifts, or conducting a white elephant exchange with budget-friendly novelty items.
Don’t overlook smaller gifting costs that can accumulate, like Christmas stockings – instead fill them with practical, affordable items that your family needs.
Save money on wrapping supplies by using items readily available at home like newspaper or butcher paper and involve the kids in a fun, cost-saving activity by having them create homemade gift tags.
Remember, sticking to your budget doesn’t mean letting go of the Christmas spirit. It’s about celebrating responsibly and starting the New Year without financial stress.
Step 5: Ignore Sales and Keep it Simple
Sales, sales, sales – the deal is too good to pass up!
Here are key ways to overcome this common dilemma.
Resist impulsive purchases compelled by sales, and stick strictly to your shopping list.
Pause before purchasing an item not on your list, consider the necessity.
Keep emotions in check, they run our shopping decisions.
Conquer emotional spending, stay true to your budget.
Discourage additional spending once your list is fulfilled and the budget exhausted.
Remember that it’s better to focus on affordable presents rather than seeking the perfect, but expensive, gift.
Step 6: Shop for Christmas Gifts Early
Start early. Begin watching for sales on items from your Christmas gift list way before the season’s rush.
Begin monitoring for sales early, especially during holidays that precede Christmas, to stretch your budget further.
Make use of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. They provide excellent opportunities to snag deals on your gifts.
Expert Tip: Remember to stick to your list. If it isn’t on your list, pass it up. It’s challenging but keeps your budget in check.
Step 7: Reuse and Recycle Holiday Decorations
Start by taking stock of items in your house. Don’t limit yourself to traditional decorations—choose a color theme and scan your home for items that fit and can be repurposed.
Use the resources outdoors. Pine branches, pine cones, mistletoe, and holly can be fashioned into decorations from nature’s catalog.
Even consider trading decorations with friends or family. This can bring a new look to your home without the need for new purchases.
Get creative with items from dollar stores that can be combined to appear high-end and save costs.
How to buy gifts for Christmas on a budget?
Maintaining a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy giving gifts this Christmas.
Use these gift guides to help you out:
Remember, the joy is in the giving, not in the cost of the gift.
Time to Create Your Holiday Budget and Make it Memorable
Regardless of your financial situation and the extent of your holiday plans, this guide will help you maintain financial stability while fully embracing the Christmas spirit.
By setting aside a prescribed sum for your holiday expenses, you’re able to enjoy the season without the stress of unexpected expenditures or financial shocks after the holiday haze has cleared.
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping the fun or the warmth.
With just a dash of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can make the yuletide season enjoyable and meaningful without breaking the bank.
Use the festive tips provided and start planning your budget-friendly Christmas now. Remember, the true essence of Christmas isn’t in extravagant spending—it’s about love, joy, and spending quality time with those who really matter to you.
Don’t forget to access a free printable worksheet for your customized holiday budget.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Income tax filing season is upon us and let’s admit it – there’s a certain amount of stress with the whole process. It may be related to the time and effort it will take to gather the necessary documents. Or fear that you may owe the IRS money. And if you’re preparing your return yourself, you may have some anxiety over the potential to make a mistake that could invite an IRS audit.
Those may or may not be legitimate concerns, but there are numerous financial benefits of paying your taxes early. Since the process of filing returns can be stressful in itself, the best strategy is to get the job done as quickly as possible, put it in the rearview mirror, and move forward with your life.
Even if you do expect to owe money, it’s almost certainly better to file early and get it over with. And who knows? You might even find you owe less than you thought. But if you let it ride until close to April 15th, you’ll be causing yourself a lot of unnecessary stress.
That’s why when it comes to income taxes, it’s almost always better to file and pay early.
What’s Ahead:
How early can you file your income tax return?
There’s probably no one in America who is unaware that April 15th is “tax day”. But that doesn’t mean you need to wait until April 18th to file.
The 2023 tax season officially began on January 23rd, when the IRS started accepting 2022 returns. This includes e-Files.
But unless your tax situation is fairly simple, you probably don’t start doing your taxes on the earliest filing date. Often, employers and other institutions are not required to provide important tax documents until after the start date. For example, the deadline for sending W-2s and 1099s was January 31st in 2023. Other 1099s, such as those that report interest, dividends, capital gains, and other investment transactions, were not required to be sent until February 28.
But as we all know, just because W-2s and 1099s are due out by a certain date doesn’t mean everyone complies. You may find yourself waiting into March for certain forms. It happens in the real world.
The financial benefits of paying your taxes early
I’m using the term “paying your taxes” because that’s almost certainly the main reason people delay filing their taxes until April 15. But there are plenty of other reasons you might be waiting until the last minute, including procrastination.
But whether you expect to pay, or you’re anticipating a refund, there are plenty of reasons to file – and, if necessary, pay – your taxes early.
Get your money early if you’re due a refund
According to the IRS, theaverage federal income tax refund in 2023 as of February 28th is $1,963.
That’s a nice chunk of money, and one too big to leave on deposit with the IRS, where it earns no interest. For that reason, you should want to get your tax refund as soon as possible. And in most cases, if you expect a refund on your federal income tax, you’ll probably be looking for one on your state income tax as well. That means more than $2,900 may be hanging in the balance.
The sooner you get your refund from the IRS and into your bank, the sooner you’ll be earning interest on the money – or putting the cash to some good use elsewhere.
Read more: 10 smart things to do with your tax refund
Give yourself more time to pay if you owe
It’s perfectly understandable to choose to wait until the last moment to file your income tax if you owe money (whether because of estimated tax or otherwise). But if you already know you owe, hesitation will only generate additional unneeded stress.
What’s more, there’s no need to panic if you owe the IRS money, even if you can’t afford to pay it. In fact, the IRS provides several options for paying overdue taxes. Once you get one of these payment methods in place, the stress will ease, and you’ll be able to freely concentrate on the business of getting your tax liability paid.
The IRS will help you pay your tax balance
The IRS provides no fewer than three options to pay your taxes if you get a tax bill:
When you file your taxes, you can contact the IRS and request additional time to pay your full tax balance. TheIRS will give you up to 120 days to pay your balance. You’ll need to contact the IRS to set this up, which is another compelling reason to file your return early.
If you won’t be able to pay the full balance within 120 days, you can also set up aninstallment payment agreement. The IRS will give you up to 72 months – a full six years – to pay your balance in full. However, interest and penalties will be assessed on the portion of the tax that has not been paid by April 18th.
If you’re unable to pay the full balance even with additional time or an installment agreement, you can also propose anoffer in compromise. You’ll need to make an application with the IRS, but you may qualify to pay a reduced tax balance if you can demonstrate a hardship. This may be approved if you’ve experienced a prolonged time of unemployment, the death of a loved one, a divorce, or a major medical event.
The critical element when you owe the IRS money is to file your tax return on time. Early is even better, since it will make it easier for you to set up a workable payment plan. That’ll be easier to do early in the tax filing season when the IRS is more likely to answer their phones or to respond to online applications for payment plans.
Reduce the likelihood of income tax refund fraud
Income tax refund fraud is one of the fastest-growing and least understood forms of identity theft. That’s in large part because it happens without the taxpayer even being aware of what’s going on – at least until an ominous letter arrives from the IRS.
If you’re expecting a refund, that letter will inform you that a large refund has already been paid under your name and Social Security number.
You don’t need to worry that the IRS is going to come after you for the fraudulent overpayment. They’re well aware of income tax fraud and have an entire protocol set up to deal with it. But it will take weeks or months to sort out, and that will mean your true refund will be delayed until the problem is cleared up.
To avoid the hassle and the delay – as well as the possibility of the fraud itself – you’ll minimize the likelihood of it happening by filing as early in the tax season as possible.
Income tax refund fraud usually takes place shortly after the IRS begins accepting returns for processing. If the fraudster has your name, address, and Social Security number, he or she can file a bogus tax return claiming a large refund.
The early filing by the fraudster is the key to the whole theft. The fraudster will be able to both file a fraudulent return and collect the refund before you file your legitimate return.
Read more:7 signs you’re at risk for identity theft
Avoid the last-minute tax crush – and the possibility of needing to extend
There’s something of a myth – which is one dreaded by tax preparers everywhere – of a taxpayer walking into a CPA firm or tax-preparation company the day before taxes are due and expecting to have the return filed by the next day. That’s something like doing your Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. And trust me, it probably won’t work with tax filing either.
I spent many years working in CPA firms, and I can tell you categorically that’s not how tax preparation works.
Walk into a CPA firm at the very last minute and the most that will happen is your return will be extended.
In fact, many CPAs have a cutoff date that’s set much earlier. In some firms, it may be April 10th, but in others, it may be April 5th, April 7th, or even April 1st.
The reason is CPA firms and tax-preparation offices are swamped with last-minute tax returns as the 18th approaches. The higher the volume of last-minute returns, the earlier the cutoff date will be. You can forget about April 18th– your return will automatically be extended if you come in after the cutoff date established by the firm.
Like avoiding as many traffic jams as you possibly can, you should do your best to not take part in the last-minute tax-preparation crunch. And, if for whatever reason, it looks like you’ll be a late filer, your best choice will be to opt for tax-preparation software to get the job done yourself.
Warning: an extension to file your return is not an extension to pay your taxes
At a minimum, it will be important to have your return completed even if you need to file an extension. A completed or mostly completed tax return will let you know what your tax liability is.
That’s important because filing an extension only grants you the right to file your return by October 16th. But it does not give you an extension to pay your tax liability.
Being better prepared to file a complicated return
Next to apprehension over owing on your taxes, the biggest source of stress and filing delays is likely the need to file a complicated return. That may be the case if you’re self-employed, have a large number of investment trades, own investment real estate, or participate in multiple partnerships.
The document collection process for any of those return types is admittedly challenging. But that’s all the more reason to keep accurate records as well as know where to access important documents, many of which can easily be retrieved from online sources.
Delaying the preparation of a complicated tax return until April 15th, or even anticipating an extension, won’t make the problem go away. It’ll simply postpone it to a later date, which means you’ll spend more time stressing and worrying.
This can be especially problematic if you’re using the services of a paid tax preparer. The closer you get to April 15th, the more backed up paid tax preparers are, including CPAs.
Tax software can help you file the most complicated returns yourself
Don’t let that stop you from filing. There are advanced tax software programs that can help you prepare your tax returns yourself. And you can do it with a quality level similar to a return prepared by a CPA.
TurboTax is an excellent choice to self-prepare the most complicated tax returns. You can quickly and easily file even the most complicated returns, even getting help from a live agent as needed. That’s just a fraction of what you’d pay a CPA to prepare your return. And using the easy, step-by-step data entry process TurboTax employs will make the tax-preparation process easier than you might imagine.
They offer a 100% accuracy guarantee, the ability to prepare up to five returns with a single package, an audit support guarantee, an interface with QuickBooks, and – for an additional fee – live audit representation. For a complete list of the best options for filing yourself or with help, click the link below.
Read more: Best tax software for 2023
Summary
For the sake of your own sanity, file and pay your income taxes as early in the tax filing season as you can. Given all the tax preparation software that’s available – that’s both easy to use and low cost – there’s no reason to wait.
File as early as you can, get the task behind you, then go on with your life. Even if you expect to owe, a delay doesn’t eliminate the need to make payments. It only defers it to a later date and leaves you spending more time worrying.
Between tax software and e-filing, there’s no reason at all to put yourself through that.
We have no problem admitting that we are suckers for good packaging. We’ve been known to buy a $10 chocolate bar and never open it, a beautiful bar of soap only to stare at it on the bathroom counter and an overpriced bottle of olive oil just for its looks. what, you don’t??. If you have someone in your life who has the same level of obsessive observant eye for design, these gorgeously packaged goodies are just what will make them squeal come Christmas morning!! Plus, they’re so pretty, you might not even have to wrap them! A simple dash of ribbon will surely do.
Get Your Gifting On:
> Bal D’Afrique Parfum > Byredo French Hand Cream > Sans Organics Bath Products from New Zealand > Kate Spade ‘This Round Is On Me’ Wine Tote > Sunday Suppers Olive Oil > Tisane Candles > Distellerie de Paris Vodka & Gin > Aesop Mouthwash
We’ll be honest, if we received any of these beautiful bottles in our stocking or under the tree we may not ever open them! They’re just so gorgeous to look at, they’d immediately be placed right on a prime spot on the shelf, perfectly styled next to the cutting board we don’t dare dirty or that wooden toothbrush that just looks so cute in it’s cup! But just because we may never use it, doesn’t mean we don’t die over it every time we walk passed. With these gifts it’s totally the thought that counts, or shall we say, the packaging!
BTW, we’re not the only ones who haven’t finished our Christmas shopping yet, right??
Note: We’re not encouraging people to go out and sign up for credit cards, especially if you have debt or plan to carry a balance on a card. (The interest you pay will wipe out any rewards benefits.) But if you can control your spending and pay your bill on time and in full every month, Holly’s money hack may work for you. Also keep in mind that your credit score takes a hit each time you open a card, and whatever balance you have on your credit card as of the statement closing date will be reported to the credit bureaus. If you pay the balance in full before the statement closing date, your balance will be reported as $0.
Almost two years ago, we began our journey out of debt. Like the average American family, we had car loans, student loans, and consumer debt. At one point, we were making minimum payments on several credit cards and a loan I took out to buy a Kirby vacuum. I’m serious.
However, getting pregnant with our second child made us realize that we needed to get our finances together quickly. Once we committed to new financial goals, we cut out nearly everything from our life that was “enjoyable.” We said goodbye to cable TV and dinners at restaurants. We quit shopping for fun and only went to the store to get groceries and absolute necessities. Our new budget was cut down to the bare bones…so much so that I hesitated to buy almost anything.
As the months flew by, we began making huge strides against the debt that we had burdened ourselves with. Once we became debt-free, we realized that we had become addicted to our new, frugal lifestyle. Having no consumer debt had freed up a lot of cash to save and invest, and we quickly got serious about building wealth. However, having a strict budget made it difficult to do anything spontaneous like see a movie or have a date night. I began to look for a way to supplement our income with some “fun money” without ruining our short- and long-term goals. It was around that time that I got my first credit card sign-up bonus offer in the mail.
Enter credit card rewards
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read a direct mailer from a major issuer promoting their new credit card. “Spend $500 in 3 months and earn a $100 statement credit.” Could it really be that easy? Why would they give away $100 in free money? As I read through the disclosures carefully, I determined that there was no “catch.” Truthfully, the issuer was offering a $100 bonus just to get new customers to try their card. As long as I paid off the card in full and accrued no interest, this $100 would truly be free money. Since our grocery spending approaches $500 on a normal month, I knew that we could reach the spending requirement easily and I decided to give it a try. Within the first month, we put our regularly planned spending on the card. The bonus points, equal to a $100 statement credit, were quickly credited to my account. I was hooked.
Soon after that, my husband applied for the same card and earned the $100 bonus just for doing our regular shopping. We then moved on to new cards in order to earn a new sign-up bonus. Another card from that issuer, which had better perks, required that we spend $3,000 in three months in order to earn a $400 statement credit. Since we had some upcoming expenses that could be put on credit, we each signed up. We put two family vacations and our regular monthly spending for groceries and gas on each card and easily earned $800 in statement credits. Since we were going to spend the money anyway, these bonuses were truly “free.” We used the $1,000 that we had earned up to this point on some fun activities with our children. I was also able to surprise my husband with last-minute tickets to see his favorite musical, “Les Miserables,” and a new grill for Father’s Day.
Is this wrong?
Obviously there are some people who would say that we are gaming the system. Their argument may be that the credit card bonuses are meant to secure long-term customers, not to provide some extra cash to take my family to Applebee’s. Some may feel that we are just using the banks for our own gain.
I don’t see it that way at all. Actually, to a certain extent, some of their strategies have worked. For instance, I plan on keeping the perkier card because it has no foreign transaction fees. I have also found that this particular card comes with great customer service. Calling the 1-800 number on the card quickly connects me with a real, live person at any hour of the day or night. I would have never tried the card if not for the sign-up bonus. So, in that respect, I feel that the issuer did earn a long-term customer.
I also definitely do not feel bad that I never pay interest. For every person like me who pays their balance in full every month, there are far too many people making the minimum payment. Additionally, banks earn money from retailers just because they choose to take credit cards as payment. Simply put, when I spend $100 at the grocery store, they have to pay the credit card company a certain percentage of my order.
Moving forward
In the past two months, we have moved our spending from those cards to another issuer’s premium card. Their new offer of “Spend $2,000 in 3 months and earn $250 in gift cards” was just too good to pass up…especially with Christmas just around the corner. Since we will put our gas, groceries, and our entire Christmas shopping budget on the card, we will easily reach the spending requirement and, thus, reap the rewards.
Chasing reward deals certainly isn’t for everyone. However, it has definitely made a difference in our bottom line. It has provided us with some extra money that doesn’t have to be accounted for. I can spend our rewards on gifts or something fun and not feel like I have sacrificed what is important to us. And now that we are completely out of consumer debt, I am actually finding that using credit cards helps us stay on budget. Both of the issuers have websites that make it quick and easy to track what I have spent and where.
Is this strategy right for you?
Before entertaining any credit card sign-up bonuses, I would ask myself a few questions. Are you in debt? If you are in credit card debt, then it is a bad idea to pursue credit card rewards. In fact, you might consider cutting up your cards or putting them somewhere not easily accessible. Work on getting out of debt and staying out of debt instead.
Do you have trouble tracking your spending? If so, then pursuing rewards offers may not be for you. While I tend to use one card at a time, some people try to juggle multiple offers at once and end up getting confused. If you are worried about losing track of your spending, then please skip using credit cards altogether.
Are you worried about your credit score? Remember that applying for new credit too frequently can reduce your score and make it harder for you to get the best rate for a loan. Please take into consideration how applying for credit will affect your credit score and do what is in your best interest.
Do you try to earn credit card rewards? If so, what is your favorite credit card rewards program?
It seems contradictory, but I love being frugal and I also love spending money. Over the last few years, however, my love of frugality has outweighed my love of spending — and it’s been good for my savings.
Yes, it’s OK to spend money sometimes. If you have it, and you’re comfortable with your present and future finances, by all means, spend away. But a lot of us, including myself, spend when we shouldn’t spend. It’s to be expected, I think, in our consumer culture. I can’t walk down my block without being sold something every minute or so, from billboards to petitioners to window sales.
Anyway, a couple of readers requested an article on how to avoid spending sprees. It’s something I’ve been thinking about lately anyway, so this was a great reason to give the subject more thought and put something together.
Identify the Root of Your Spending
We’ll start with the heavy stuff first because I think it helps put the practical tips into perspective. I recently read Lost and Found by Geenen Roth. Roth and her husband lost their savings in the Bernie Madoff scandal, but her book is mostly about her emotional issues with money. In one chapter, Roth describes an obsession with a pair of chic but expensive eyeglasses she desperately wanted to buy. The obsession is symbolic of her relationship with consumption. In an interview with Time, she explains:
“In the same way that we use food for emotional reasons, we use buying things to fill something that we can’t quite name.”
Roth adds that this can lead to “binge-shopping.” This hit home for me, because I used to spend emotionally, especially when I was younger. Learning to let go of my emotional attachments with spending helped me to avoid these binges.
For Roth, Stuff represented love. For me, Stuff represented acceptance. I recall one binge spree in college particularly well because I was making $10 an hour, and I skipped class to buy a bunch of clothes. This is so insensible, I remember thinking, and it was the first time I realized shopping was emotionally symbolic for me. I felt like, if I got a whole new wardrobe, I might be a different and better person. I’d be more self-assured, less neurotic. (It didn’t work.)
A friend recently told me about her own emotional spending. Like Roth, she equated it to love. “So I learned to love myself differently,” she said. Similarly, during one Christmas shopping spree that set me back quite a bit, I realized I also enjoy buying things for other people to let them know I care. I’ve learned to let them know in other ways.
Again, it’s OK to spend. I had a spendy weekend recently, and while it was a little out of control, I don’t think I was trying to fill a void. I was just having fun. It set my savings back a bit, but it wasn’t totally insensible — I didn’t skip any life duties to go shopping; I didn’t charge anything. And Holly recently discussed spending a lot during her vacation. I didn’t feel like she was trying to fill a void either — she was just enjoying her trip.
I think those instances are different from binge-shopping. To continue Holly’s booze metaphor, those instances are like having one too many beers when you’re out with an old friend. Binge-shopping is like drinking for the sole purpose of getting shit-faced to forget your problems.
Of course, for some people, it’s not that complicated — they just like to buy things. But if shopping has become an uncontrollable issue, it might be because it’s filling some emotional void. Identifying the root of your spending can help curb it.
‘Power Shop’
It seems unlikely now, but my dad used to have a spending problem. He got over it, so I thought I’d ask him how. “I power-shopped,” he said, meaning he’d walk around Best Buy, fill his basket up with Stuff and then put it all back. It seems kind of crazy, but it helped him let go of his desire to consume everything.
Reader Erica does the same thing. In her comment, she wrote:
“I find if I walk around with something in my hand in the store, after a while, I’m over it and I can put it back.”
I guess the idea is that, after “owning” something, you realize the product isn’t going to significantly change your life. It loses any appeal and meaning you might have attached to it. You realize it’s just a thing.
Erica did say this doesn’t always work, though, and my dad warned that it takes a lot of discipline. I imagine it can backfire if you’re good at arguing with yourself.
Focus on Your Goals
This is another thing that worked for my dad, and it also worked for me. Instead of focusing on the things I didn’t have, I focused on my financial goals. I checked my budget daily, read personal finance and frugal living blogs, monitored my goals and watched my net worth rise. The more focused I’ve become with my financial independence, the less obsessed I am with shopping. Yes, I still want things. But I don’t give in as much because giving in gets in the way of my goals.
Wait
Because emotional shopping is usually impulsive, waiting helps you decide whether you really want something or you’re just spending to spend. “I’ve gotten to a point of waiting a week or a month or a year,” my dad told me. “And if I still want or think I need it, then so be it, I will get it. But, usually, it turns out that the impulsive thought has passed.”
Avoid Shopping With Spend-Happy Friends
I have a friend whom I used to love shopping with. Why? Because he always bought something. This made me feel better about my own spending. If I’m wavering, and I see my friend buying something, I don’t know why, but I’m more apt to give in.
Avoid Stores
Especially when I feel vulnerable, I just avoid certain stores. Lots of stores trigger my emotional spending and make me feel like I need to own half of their inventory. It makes sense; companies spend a lot of money and put a lot of effort into appealing to our vulnerabilities.
Take a Field rip Without Your Wallet
This seems contradictory to the previous tip, but it helped me learn to appreciate things without the need to own them. Visit your favorite store without any money. For me, this squelched instant gratification. Without money or credit cards, you have no way to consume, and you’re forced to just accept products for what they are. This helped me appreciate the aesthetic or usefulness of something without forcing myself into the equation. So instead of representing anything significant, the thing is only a thing. It might be beautiful, it might be cool, but that’s all it is.
Another interesting thing about visiting your favorite store without money is that you also become aware of all of the subtle tricks that convince shoppers to spend — the clever advertising, the strategic store layout, the proportionate mannequins — and hopefully, you’ll remember these subtle tricks during a future temptation.
Make a List of Things You Already Have
It sounds a little obsessive, but to curb my temptation, I used to keep a list on my phone of all of the Stuff I’ve spent money on in the past year. While shopping, I’d get that little voice in my head telling me: Hey!You reeeally don’t need this.
It’s easy to ignore that voice. Something tangible, like a list, is harder to ignore.
Also, if there’s something I want, a list helps me compare it to what I already have. I ask myself, “What is it about this new thing that I like?” Usually, I already own something that possesses those qualities.
Just Stop
It’s easier said than done, I know. But when I’m particularly fed up with my desire for Stuff, I just stop. I think about things in perspective. Overspending — what a problem to have! I think about my mom’s awful stories of growing up in poverty. I think about how spoiled overspending must sound to someone who’s really struggling. And I just don’t do it. Guilt probably isn’t the best tool; but instead of the guilt, if you focus on the abundance you already have, whether it’s family, friends, independence, whatever, it can help stop the urge to spend.
I’ve gotten better, but I still have setbacks. When I’m overwhelmed with work and nothing seems to be going my way, I’m especially susceptible to “retail therapy.” And, again, it’s not bad to want things. But when it gets in the way of your well-being, financial independence or life goals, it’s a nasty problem.
By Peter Anderson1 Comment – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited January 21, 2019.
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Later this month we’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving, and for many people the Thanksgiving week is a time to sit back and reflect on all of the blessings that we’ve been given throughout the year. For some the week is about getting together with family and enjoying all of the good food. For others, however, Thanksgiving week is all about gearing up to go out and go shopping on Black Friday, or Cyber Monday.
I don’t usually go out on Black Friday, but I’m never one to say never when it comes to finding a deal. There have been several years where I have gone out on Black Friday, with mixed results. In years where I planned ahead, knew exactly what I wanted, and got to the store plenty early, I didn’t have any issues. In years where I just decided last minute to show up and see if I could get a deal – it didn’t work out well at all.
So today I want to go over a few Black Friday shopping tips, and look at some things you can do to prepare for the hottest shopping weekend of the year.
Don’t Just Wing It, Plan Ahead
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made when shopping on Black Friday was to not really make a plan ahead of time, and to just wing it when it came to getting a deal on the items I was shopping for. When I showed up at the store trying to get a deal, it was a complete mess. I didn’t know where the item I was looking for was going to be, others had showed up way before I did and the store in general was much busier than I had anticipated.
Here’s a video looking at my experience and the madness that ensued at Wal-Mart that night.
[embedded content]
View the video on YouTube
So as you can see it was complete madness and mayhem. I hadn’t planned ahead, and it was obvious others had. I saw one family talking on walkie-talkies, coordinating their battle plan!
Websites To Research Your Black Friday Deals
As mentioned above it’s a good idea to plan ahead and to research all of the Black Friday sales ahead of time. Track down and find the best deals on the items that you need.
So where can you go to do all your research? There are a ton of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping sites you can check out, here are a few of the better ones:
This “most wanted” list from gottadeal.com – will give you an idea of what items are most wanted at each store. Using that information you can prioritize you list and make a battle plan.
Black Friday Most Wanted Deals
8 Tips For Black Friday Shopping
Black Friday shopping starts way ahead of the early morning hours on Friday following Thanksgiving. It starts by doing your homework ahead of
time, and making a battle plan for where you’re going to go, and what you’re going to get.
Make a list in the order of importance: Make a list of things you were planning to buy this year anyway, and then prioritize them in the order that you want them the most – so you can make sure to go and wait in line for those items first.
Make a budget and save up the cash: Make a spending budget for the day, and save up the cash ahead of time to pay for all your purchases. Don’t spend more than you had planned!
Make sure the stores don’t have advance Black Friday deals: Some stores will give you the Black Friday price on the item ahead of time, they start the sales earlier in the week. If you can avoid going to the store on the big day, do it! Some stores also have rewards programs and members will sometimes get a preview shopping event and get Black Friday prices earlier in the week! (for example, Sears does this)
See if the item is available online too: Some stores will have Black Friday deals on their websites as well, so if you can get the deal online and avoid the store, go for it!
Go on a reconnaissance mission: If you’re looking for an item that’s going to be extremely popular, you may even want to go to the store ahead of time and scout out the location of the item so you know where to go. Be careful, however, as some stores will place Black Friday deals throughout the store, so make sure to get that store’s Black Friday sales plan layout.
Go with a friend.. or two: If you’re looking for more than one big ticket item, you may want to go to the store with the friend so you can wait in separate lines and get both of the items you wanted.
Bring some snacks: If you plan on waiting in line for a long time Friday morning, bring along some snacks, and maybe even some coffee (but don’t go overboard or you may lose your spot on line when you go to use the restroom!)
Figure out if you need a voucher for big items: Some stores will hand out vouchers to people in line for more popular or big ticket items to avoid a scramble once the doors open. Find out if your items need a voucher at that store, and if so, make sure to be in line super early.
So start planning for your big shopping day today, and you’ll be sure to get the deals that you wanted and save on your Christmas shopping, unlike those poor slobs like me who just show up!
Cyber Monday Is Great For Deals Too!
If you don’t get the deal you wanted on Black Friday, don’t worry. Cyber Monday – the Monday after Black Friday – also has a ton of great deals, mainly at online stores. Checking the sites linked above will also give you access to a lot of the best online deals to be found then.
Also, remember that while Black Friday has a lot of hype surrounding it, it isn’t always the best time to buy certain items.
When you do finally get around to buying the things you want, make sure you’re taking advantage of all available discounts to get the best possible deal! Also, remember, you can always go the route of buying or making frugal Christmas gifts for your family as well!
Have your own Black Friday shopping tips? Tell us what they are in the comments!
Save more, spend smarter, and make your money go further
Mothers tend to have an opinion about everything, and the older we get, the more we realize just how right they are! This is especially true when it comes to being smart with money. So the next time your mom offers up some wisdom, consider her advice as a gift to you this Mother’s Day!
Stick to a budget
A recent survey shows that 60% of Americans do not have a budget! You can’t possibly manage your finances without one. An app like Mint will help you create a budget, track your spending and set financial goals. Plus, when you sync all financial accounts to the app, everything is in one place. Budgets lead to a better financial future. Mom wants that.
Monitor your bank balance
While it’s easier than ever to check a balance here or pay a bill there, you may think you don’t need to maintain your own records. You do! You may think your mom is a bit old-school for balancing a ledger, but it’s important to check your account monthly. Cross-reference your spending with your checking account to see if your balance is higher or lower than it should be. Look over receipts, payments and cancelled checks and double check the amounts. If there are any inaccuracies, report them immediately.
Secure your future
While 401(k)s may be going the way of mom jeans, many companies still offer them. If you are lucky enough to work for a company that offers one of them, max it out. You can contribute up to $18,000 this year. It’s the best way to build wealth for your future, and minimize the tax bite – a worker in the 25% tax bracket who contributes the maximum this year will save $4,500 on his 2015 tax bill. If your employer matches contributions (50 cents on the dollar up to a maximum of 6% is common), this will help grow your retirement account balance even faster. For a worker earning $60,000 per year, this employer match – aka “free money” – could be worth as much as an additional $1,800 toward that retirement account. Mom will be so proud!
Save before you spend
Saving before spending is one of the easiest ways to boost wealth and meet your long-term goals. If you are paying yourself last, chances are there may not be much left to save after you’ve covered your housing costs, groceries, and utilities. You may have heard your mother say “pay yourself first”: set aside a certain portion of your income the day you get paid before you spend any discretionary income. Direct deposit is an easy way to save automatically.
Homemade gifts are the best
A large portion of the $173 we are expecting to spend on mom this year will be at restaurants, according to the National Retail Federation. If mom taught you how to cook, avoid the crowds and make her brunch at home. You will be putting the lessons she taught you to work while saving money and showing her how much she’s appreciated in the most personal way!
– Vera Gibbons,Mint Contributor and Personal Finance expert
Save more, spend smarter, and make your money go further
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Personally, I begin to panic every year as the holiday season approaches. It’s not because I don’t love Christmas. I really do love the holiday season, in general. I just cringe at the thought of all of the money that gets spent unnecessarily, especially mine. And as holiday spending has steadily grown out of control, expectations have come along for the ride. What is now considered to be a reasonable amount of presents is completely different than it was when I was a kid. Nowadays, children are getting showered with big gifts, expensive toys, and things I never would have dreamed of receiving as a child.
My mom once told me that, when she was young, she typically got an orange and some candy in her stocking on Christmas. Seriously. And she was thrilled to get it. She also reminded me that she and her siblings would each get only a few small toys as well. The thing is, this isn’t just some story about walking 10 miles to school, uphill, both ways. It is actually the truth. Of course, it happened 60 years ago, and I cannot believe how times have changed. Kids certainly expect a lot more gifts now, and it doesn’t take much to figure out why things have changed so dramatically.
Doesn’t it seem like the holiday season creeps up on us earlier every single year? It is no longer surprising to see stores decorated for Christmas in early November… way before Thanksgiving! This year, several stores even announced that they would open for Black Friday on Thanksgiving Day, and they made many customers upset in the process.
We are inundated with toy store ads and commercials featuring the tippy tops of Christmas trees hidden by huge piles of gifts. In the meantime, I have also noticed that children’s toys have gotten extremely expensive! My 3-year-old recently asked for a Nintendo 3DS for Christmas. After a quick Google search, I determined that it is a nearly $200 gaming system! My brother has also convinced her that she needs an iPad for Christmas. Obviously, that is not going to happen. Still, it’s hard to avoid the trappings of a consumerist Christmas when we are constantly confronted with expectations that are sometimes unreasonable and wasteful.
So, where does that leave us? What should families do to keep holiday spending under control? Should we sacrifice our own financial well-being in order to deliver the Christmas that advertisers portray? Or should we stick to our guns and only buy the bare minimum for our children, family, and friends?
Since my children are so young, ages 3 and 1, we have decided to keep expectations fairly low. This year, we spent approximately $100 per child, and we actually got them some nice things that I believe they will enjoy. The additional money we have allocated to spend on them this year is going straight into their college savings 529 accounts. How did we do it? It’s fairly simple actually. We’re giving them used stuff.
There, I said it. I give my children used toys and clothes for Christmas. Well, not all of their gifts are used. Still, many of the toys and clothes that will be under the tree are second-hand items. Do I feel bad about it? No, absolutely not. In fact, I feel like it makes perfect sense.
This strategy might feel completely tacky to some….but I have to ask you, “What difference does it make?” My kids are so young that they can’t possibly know or care. Once the gifts are wrapped and under the tree, they will easily blend in with the others. My children will never suspect a thing. Buying some used toys and clothing has allowed me to stretch my holiday dollars much further. I am also able to buy them nicer gifts than I would be able to if I paid sticker price for every one.
Maybe giving used items isn’t in your game plan this Christmas. Still, there are plenty of other ways to stop spending so much money during the holidays. Here are some easy steps that may help you save some of your holiday cash.
Make a holiday gift budget and stick to it. Making a gift budget is an ideal way to keep your spending under control. First, decide who you are buying for. Second, determine what you can afford to spend on them and stick to it. Remember that it is not necessary to buy for every last relative and person you know – and it is unreasonable for them to expect you to do so.
Stop buying for siblings and their spouses. Initially, this didn’t go over too well with my family. However, since my siblings and I are all adults, it seemed silly to insist on buying each other gifts. By the time we finally stopped, we were basically just trading gift cards around. It was totally unnecessary, and I was relieved when it finally came to an end.
Make homemade gifts if you can. Choosing not to buy for extended family members, neighbors, and co-workers can save a ton of money if you are able to get away with it. If you feel obligated to give them something, try making them something instead. If you aren’t crafty, bake some cookies or holidays treats and wrap them with holiday wrapping paper or bows.
Stop buying for pets. Do pets really need Christmas gifts? No, they don’t. If you feel obligated to put something under the tree for your pet, re-gift them something that they already have. I’m giving my dog a bag of dog food for Christmas this year. Trust me, he’ll love it.
Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses. Everyone has some Joneses in their life. Don’t try to emulate their bad Christmas spending decisions. Spend only what is a responsible amount for your family. Remember that the Joneses may or may not be able to afford all of the gifts they bought in the first place.
Obviously, there is so much more to Christmas than rampant consumerism. Maybe lowering Christmas expectations will help us all focus on what is really important during the holiday season – spending time with the people we love.
How are you saving on your Christmas shopping this year? What gift-giving limits do you practice?
Every year, I fail to really account for the cost of Christmas. “A few hundred dollars,” I think, for gifts, and then by the first few days of December I’ve bought several pounds of butter, and lots of my favorite seasonal chocolate, and the big size of maple syrup because I’ll be baking and pancake-making a lot this winter. And suddenly I’ve already spent a few hundred dollars, and not a gift among them.
And because my children are children, having grown up in a big extended family of good Christians who are totally O.K. with Santa, (and let me reiterate: a big family, with traditions including fat, stuffed stockings and gift-giving to aunts and uncles and cousins and grandparents, going to public school and occasionally coming across those toy ads in the circulars from department stores like the local Fred Meyer… ) well, they expect something. Like, a big something. They want their Christmas-morning minds blown.
I’ve done this to myself.
This year as in years past I have, utterly without thinking or planning, built up the anticipation against my financial best interests and my professed desire for less consumerism. “Well, maybe you might ask for that for Christmas,” I’ll tell my five-year-old when he asks for a toy in September, while we’re shopping for a new lunch bag. “Why don’t you look at this LEGO catalog and tell me what you want for Christmas,” I’ll tell my oldest when he’s claiming boredom in October. “Christmas is coming and I want to save my money for that,” I’ll tell my middle child when he asks for yet another iTunes game around Thanksgiving.
And then the whole frenzy of Thanksgiving comes. I’m not much of a Black Friday shopper — ok, I have not seen the inside of a mall on Black Friday for as long as I can remember — but I do get caught up in the early holiday Pinterest-ing and the Instagram-ing and the Facebook-ing and the tweeting that starts about that time. Some of my knitting friends begin their annual holiday rush to knit gifts for everyone they know. My photographer friends are putting the final touches on calendars and coasters and everything else you can make with photos. There is a flurry of crafting and craft-desiring like none that will occur again until Valentine’s Day.
I get caught up.
And then come the Christmas tree photos.
Let me stop here and say that I am an enormous fan of Christmas trees. I love the smell of a Douglas fir and I love the look of lights glimmering on a tree and I never want to turn them off for weeks and weeks. But to get a medium-sized tree even here in the middle of this Christmas tree land (I think my uncle even grows them on his farm 20 miles away) is $40, plus the inevitable hot chocolate and sugar cookie that must be purchased during the ritual getting-of-the-tree. Usually, I agonize over the cost and then find it in my budget somehow and commence Christmas thrill.
But this year I feel done. I bike around Portland looking at the lots full of trees, trees everywhere, trees in wagons and bicycles and on Subarus and Volvos and I think how ridiculous it is. (I may get over this soon.) All this growing and fertilizing and trucking trees around, all this buying and decorating and lighting and watering, all this sawing and taking down and composting — for what? Over a billion dollars spent just on trees every year!
One day one of my friends (a person I know in real life, even) said on Twitter that her tradition was to get a different angel ornament every year for her tree. I’m quite certain that my friend, who has excellent taste and is not known for excess, had no idea that her little statement would send me into a tailspin of guilt and frustration. But I didn’t have any such tradition and I’d not even bought a baby’s first Christmas ornament for each of my boys and I thought, “maybe I should start a new tradition like that!” and at almost the same time thought, “I don’t wanna!”
I don’t wanna
I waited a respectable amount of time. And I tweeted something about not having energy for the holiday spirit, about getting myself into a tizzy about what I hadn’t done (no wreath-making party, what?) and then realizing I just wanted to write. Several people from a variety of internet circles chimed in, agreeing, commiserating. And then I kept seeing more and more expressions of exhaustion. One friend in the Midwest said she’d given over the reins of the holiday spirit to her husband. She felt conflicted about “raising little consumers.” Another friend was writing a post for a major food web site on the topic — enough with the cookies already!
I realized I was done spending money on Christmas just to take pictures of my family following a cultural tradition that brought up so many feelings of guilt, insufficiency, and financial stress. I could do this my way, right? Right!
Now, how to convert the kids?
I bought my oldest son’s big present for him around the first of December: a bike trailer, a very heavily-used one from a friend. I’d been meaning to get this for him anyway, because pulling his little brother around behind him is a big thrill. (For all of us!) And his pride and gratitude was a big inspiration for me. I came up with a several-pronged strategy that I hope will turn the holidays lower-key without making them feel cheated:
Give the kids the power. Instead of handing down traditions from on high, I’m going to let them direct me as to which traditions they want to follow. “We could go Christmas shopping for each other at Fred Meyer with this money. Or go to the thrift store. Or go out to Little Big Burger. Or save it for gear for our next family camping trip.”
Make the kids do the work. We’re going to go get a tree and Everett gets to pull it back in his trailer. I have an idea this is going to keep the tree pretty small — and cheap. (And if it doesn’t, I’m sure the bragging rights will be well worth the extra money.) I’ll let him do the setting up and decorating, too. This will hopefully keep me from that insane desire to buy new ornaments (so I too can start one of those traditions! Or go with an all-blue theme this year! Or…) and give them the chance to make ornaments if they like.
Give gifts that are collaborative creative projects. We’re making calendars out of my photos and the kids’ art to give to grandparents and cousins. And my big gift to the boys will be wool traveling cloaks straight out of Harry Potter (also practical; they’ll be very warm while riding bikes). I’ll let them pick the fabric and help me design them, letting me engage all my creative energies with a minimum of time spent shopping.
Only bake together. Those December issues of food magazines are like cocaine for me. (And I don’t need new ones; I have over a decade’s worth of Gourmet and Saveur and Martha Stewart Living.) I have three separate cookie cookbooks and I barely eat sugar any more! I will declare baking days and only make cookies if they’re helping the whole way along. And, sorry, no new cookie cutters!
Cleaning before buying. Want a tree? We have to clean the living room first. Asking for new toys for Christmas? I’d better see room for said toys in your bedroom. It’s kind of working! I’ll take “kind of” right now.
Everything used. I’m not buying any new toys this year. You know what they say about cars, that they lose value when you drive them off the lot? Same with toys. Open the package, zap, 50% of the value (if not more). But my kids don’t give a darn, as long as most of the parts are there. I’ll go thrift-store shopping for LEGOs and buy a couple of new-to-them Wii games at the CD and game exchange, and some used books at Powell’s.
The hardest part of all for me is to hold myself back from the desire to look like everyone else does (but with my own creative twist!). The holidays can be such a way to express the highest version of your cultural self. But really, my cultural self is a writer and a mother. I’ll try to remember that, and to resist the urge to see what everyone else is doing on Instagram, and think, “Oh, I can do that too!”