Tips for saving money during the holiday season?

United States
November 13, 2008 7:27pm CST
I was hoping we could start a discussion about how to save money during the holiday season. I don't have a lot of money to be spent on presents year (I'm sure we're ALL in that position with the economy the way that it is). What are some ways that you cut down on costs of presents? Here's what I mean: Buying holiday cards at the dollar store Putting presents on layaway (I think K-Mart does this) Making handmade presents Clipping coupons Buying online as opposed to mall shopping, etc Enjoy your holiday season! Thanks in advance for the responses!
4 responses
kkthom3
@kkthom3 (279)
• United States
14 Nov 08
I am thinking of giving people things that I already have. I know it sounds bad, but I have a lot of books and they are in really good condition, so I might just give some of those away as presents.
jewel127
@jewel127 (72)
• United States
14 Nov 08
That doesn't sound bad, that sounds smart! I have lots of DVDS and CDS that I haven't even played that I'm sure would make good stocking stuffers for friends. I also like to make framed picture collages of my friends. It is REALLY easy and cheap to make, and it means a lot to them! Thanks for the response!
tiffthompson527
@tiffthompson527 (14)
• United States
14 Nov 08
I am going to be making several presents myself this holiday season. Another thing to do is to shop on "black friday" when they have all the big sales. Definitely shop around for those big ticket items to find the best price on them. Also ebay is a great way to Christmas shop! I have bought several Christmas presents from them in the past.
jewel127
@jewel127 (72)
• United States
14 Nov 08
You know, a lot of people have told me in the past that Black Friday has great savings. At my mall, Black Friday is a HUGE event where people line up at the doors hours before the mall actually opens. I don't think I could drive all the way to the mall, find parking, and then fight off the masses of people all for saving $30 on a laptop. E-bay is definitely a possibility. I LOVE e-bay and I normally find a lot of good deals on there. Thanks for the reply!
Pigglies
@Pigglies (9329)
• United States
14 Nov 08
I'm buying a lot of presents at store closing sales and online. Another thing I'm doing, is writing articles to earn extra money for shopping.
bowtieguy
@bowtieguy (5915)
• United States
15 Nov 08
Those are good suggestions. I also like to start my shopping in september so I can shop in shifts and not be spending so much money at one time.