Christmas shopping can be really stressful, not to mention hard on your bank account. For those of you who have more than three people to buy presents for, I feel you. Between parents, siblings, in-laws, nieces and nephews, godparents, and grandparents, the bill continues to grow. Follow the tips below to help save some money this holiday season.
1. Shop early.
There is nothing worse than having to go to the mall on Christmas Eve or Christmas Eve Eve. If you spread out buying your presents all throughout December, it’ll be less busy and easier on your bank account. Giving yourself enough time will allow you to look for the best deals.
2. Look for coupons.
If you look online at store websites, you can often find coupons there. Download Target’s Cartwheel app for daily deals. Look in the Sunday newspaper ads for coupon booklets as well. The website https://www.retailmenot.com/ has deals on name-brand items.
3. Avoid shopping at expensive stores.
If you head right toward the stores that only carry name brands, you will end up spending a ton of money even if you look in the clearance sections. I like to order online from pro and college fan shops like Fanatics, Jansport, and Fansedge. They carry cheaper fan apparel than NFL, MLB, NHL and NBA sites.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask family members what they want.
It can be hard shopping for people, so don’t be afraid to ask for options. I find it hardest to buy for my mom, so I always ask her what she wants. If you don’t want to ask directly, ask your other family members if they know what someone else wants. They will most likely give you ideas for gifts at reasonable prices, and you don’t have to worry about wasting money on a gift that won’t be enjoyed.
5. Make your own gifts.
If you have a crafty side or want to have a crafty side, don’t be afraid to make a present. There are really easy gifts, like a splatter-painted canvas (get your Jackson Pollock on) or a painted picture frame. There are also trickier things to make like wall hangings. Look on Pinterest for ideas and visit a craft store for all the supplies.
Don’t be like Michael Scott because it does not matter how much money you spend. Everyone knows you are in college, and as cheesy as it is, it really is the thought that counts.