WITH Christmas less than 100 days away, now is the time to get your budget in order.
Focus on what you can afford and follow these simple tips to enjoy the festive season without overspending.
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BASIC BUDGET: Christmas is just one day, and it’s better to spend only what you can afford — even if that means cutting back — than to go big and be left broke.
Make a list of all your expected holiday expenses — gifts, food, travel — and check it twice, of course.
Then divide costs across the remaining weeks.
ON POINT: Make daily spending work for you in the run-up to Christmas. On your weekly big shop, collect loyalty points and check your supermarket’s app for extra savings.
The Asda Rewards app, for example, offers weekly Star Products that earn you extra money, while the Nectar app offers weekly savings based on your previous Sainsbury’s shops.
Don’t forget to check your bank account for offers, too. NatWest’s Rewards account includes up to ten per cent off your first Uber Eats order, and Monzo offers weekly cashback offers. This week, you can get two per cent cashback on purchases at Boots.
SMART SAVING: Set up a separate savings account for Christmas expenses and arrange small, regular, automatic transfers into it. Use round-up features on your bank account, which automatically save the change from purchases. It’s a simple way to build your festive fund.
PRESENCE OVER PRESENTS: Discuss cutting back with loved ones. Consider alternatives like Secret Santa, opting for thoughtful gifts only for close family or children, or donating to a charity instead.
GAME ON: Small sacrifices now can lead to big savings by Christmas. Try cutting out one visit a week to Costa Coffee or downloading voucher apps such as GreenJinn, which offers supermarket freebies. Little lifestyle adjustments add up.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Deal of the day
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Cheap treat
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What’s new?
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Top swap
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Little helper
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Shop & save
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