Five Ways to Spend Less Money This Holiday Season

Today I am sharing five ways to spend less money this holiday season.

The holidays are an expensive time of year. There are the gifts we are purchasing for family, friends, teachers, and others, but there is also the holiday parties and events, decor for your home, and food for gatherings. It can really add up.

I have been thinking a lot about mindful spending, and how much we really need. I don't know about you, but my email inbox and my Instagram feed are just loaded with gift ideas, sales, things we MUST buy right now! It's overwhelming.

I love buying gifts and I love decorating my home for the holidays. I also love hosting family and friends. However, there are ways we can do these things, enjoy the spirt of the holiday season, and be mindful of our spending.

Here are five ways to spend less money this holiday season.

Five Ways to Spend Less Money This Holiday Season

Tip #1: Plan ahead.

One of the best ways to spend less money, is to have a plan. Make a realistic budget and decide how much you are able or willing to spend. Make a list of gifts you need to purchase. Be sure to include items such as holiday cards, stamps, home decor such as a Christmas tree or new lights for your yard, and even food and drinks if you are entertaining.

Having a plan will help you to feel more in control of your money. It can also help deter impulse buys like that holiday candle from Home Goods or another stocking stuffer for your kids. Don't worry if you can't stick to every detail. It's just a guide to help you to be more mindful.

Tip #2: Shop early and be creative with gift giving.

It seems like the holiday sales start earlier and earlier every year. I'm not sure why that is, but as a consumer - take advantage. Make a list of gifts you need to buy, and when you notice a sale or deal hop on it right away. The more you can cross off your list earlier on, the less likely you are to overspend right before the holidays.

You might also think about DIY gifts like this delicious homemade granola, about donating your time, making a meal for a neighbor, or offering to babysit for a family member who could really use a night out. These are great ways to show how much you care and it might not cost a penny.

Tip #3: Think about what you really need.

This is easier said than done. But as someone who has always loved to shop, it takes work to stop and ask myself, 'Do I really need this?'

Do you really need a new outfit for that holiday party? Or can you repurpose something you already have? Do you need to send all of those Christmas cards? Or can you put a family picture out on social media for free?

Think about the biggest expenses you have this holiday season. See if you can eliminate or make changes to just one, and save yourself some money.

Tip #4: Plan for some holiday traditions that don't cost a lot of money.

You don't need to have your house decorated like a Hallmark movie to get in the holiday spirit. Put on some holiday music or light a candle that you love, and your home will feel festive instantly.

Try a new holiday cookie recipe, and share them with your neighbors or friends for a budget-friendly way to spread a little cheer.

Have a holiday movie night with your family - pop some popcorn and watch your favorite holiday movie.

Drive around and see Christmas lights in your neighborhood. You don't have to pay the hefty ticket prices to see beautiful holiday displays.

Look for free local events in your town - maybe a holiday fair or a Christmas tree lighting.

Tip #5: Stay out of the stores + off your phone.

If the lure of the holiday decor at Home Goods or Target is too much to take (it is for me sometimes), then try to stay out of the stores. You can get pretty much whatever you need at your fingertips these days. Shopping online may help you stay on budget, and it's easier for you to see how things are adding up in your cart.

Staying off social media, or limiting your time may help too. I know that I have felt overwhelmed with the need to BUY ALL THE THINGS because they are on SALE. And while there is a time and place for gift buying and stocking up on things at a great price - it's important to be mindful. Make a list of what you need/want and tune out the rest.

You can enjoy your holiday season while being mindful of spending.

I hope these five ways to spend less money this holiday season are helpful to you. It's definitely an expensive time of year, and our desire to give generously, make magic for our kids, and do all the things can cost a lot.

Challenge yourself to try to cut back in just one way this year. For me it's going to be holiday events. I am going to focus on some of our favorite ways to celebrate the holidays as a family, and not feel like I need to buy, buy, buy to do that.

Check out this post for some ways to make the holidays memorable with your family and this post for ways to make the holiday season stress-free.

Do you have any other tips? If you do, I'd love to know. Leave me a comment below!

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