It’s about time to start doing your holiday shopping, but shopping on a budget can be really tough. You want to make everyone happy this Christmas, but what you don’t want to do is leave yourself with a mountain of holiday debt.
Use these holiday shopping tips to learn how to save money as you shop for those you love.
Tip #1 – Use a Holiday Shopping List
One of the best holiday shopping tips is to have a list when you start your holiday shopping. Because buying for everyone in your network of family and friends can lead to big holiday spending, being organized is key to sticking to a spending plan.
Make a list of those you want to buy for and stick with it to avoid holiday overspending.
Tip #2 – Nab Early Morning Deals on Black Friday
If you’re doing your holiday shopping on a budget, head to the web on Black Friday. Many retailers offer the same deals online as they do in their brick-and-mortar locations. You can often log on right at 12:01 am and score great deals without having to worry about a local store running out of the deals you want.
Tip #3 – Don’t Buy Just Because It’s a “Great Deal”
It’s easy to simply buy items because they’re on sale on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. But this adds up fast when you’re doing your holiday shopping.
Buy items you know people will love – don’t just buy because it’s a great price. Sometimes less is more and getting one really special gift is an even better option than buying four not so great picks just because they are cheap.
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Tip #4 – Follow Retailers on Social Media
Following favorite retailers on social media is another of the holiday shopping tips that can help you save. Many retailers offer exclusive deals and coupons to their followers, so check out those Facebook or Instagram profiles for extra savings opportunities.
Tip #5 – Don’t Forget Cyber Monday Discounts!
Most people get caught up on what to buy on Black Friday, and they totally forget about Cyber Monday. Shopping online already offers big savings, and many online retailers offer incredible deals on Cyber Monday.
Sign up now to get emails from your favorite retailers for insider information on deals.
Tip #6 – Use Online Price Comparison Tools
If you’re shopping online, use price comparison tools, which many websites offer. This lets you check out prices from multiple sellers to ensure you get the best deal. It’s even possible to find online price comparison tools that compare prices among different retailers.
Tip #7 – Make the Most of Shopping Apps
Heading to physical stores? Make the most of shopping apps like ShopSavvy or RedLaser. These apps let you scan product barcodes to find out if other stores may have a better deal on that item.
Tip #8 – Price Matching Still Exists!
Many stores offer price matching, which can save you money while cutting down the list of stores you need to hit. Check price-matching policies ahead of time to make sure you get the deal. Often if you have proof of a lower price offered on the same item the store will match or beat it to keep your business.
Tip #9 – Do Your Research Online Before You Buy
If you’re wondering how to save money this year, make sure you do your research online before you buy gifts. Check out online reviews of products to decide if they’re worth the price. You might even want to consider going with last year’s model or products if they offer the same value as newer models.
Tip #10 – Skip the Shipping Costs
Shipping fees add up, so make sure you skip the shipping costs when you do holiday shopping online.
Many retailers offer free shipping as a holiday promotion, or you can use site-to-store shipping to save big on shipping fees.
Tip #11 – Pool Your Resources
If you want to purchase a more expensive gift for a family member, consider pooling your resources with other members of the family. It’s a great way to curb holiday spending and save some money, while also getting your loved one a really wonderful gift that might come with a higher price tag! In the end everyone wins!
Tip #12 – Use Your Lowest Interest Options for Holiday Credit
Making purchases with the right credit card can result in big savings when you’re doing your holiday shopping. Interest adds up quickly if you’re buying with a high rate or department store credit card, and your Credit Union will usually offer the lowest interest rates so you can save money and maximize your holiday budget.
