A Mom’s Guide To Saving Extra This Holiday Season

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I confess. I’m a HUGE procrastinator when it comes to preparing for the holidays. It’s as if The Flash jumped into my universe, grabbed me by the hand, zipped me from January, and dropped me off days after Thanksgiving. You can only imagine each year I’m trying to think of nifty ways to pinch my pennies to prepare for the holidays.

You know what I mean? You have to prepare the big holiday feast, Christmas presents for everyone, and clothing because the kids are growing like weeds. It can get a little overwhelming if you didn’t plan ahead (slowly raises hand). But there are some effortless ways that my family is saving money as we inch closer and closer to the holiday.

Saving Extra This Holiday Season

Shop Smart

Did you know that places like Ross, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls sell the cutest gift sets at a lower price? You can purchase name brand colognes, slippers, body care sets, and kitchen essentials at a much more reasonable price. The toy sections are also pretty amazing. I have purchased popular action figures like Batman from these stores and saved huge.

Bring Your Own Snacks & Water

Have you noticed that a simple bottle of water or bagged chips can cost $1.75 in a vending machine or in the cashier aisle? Seriously! I like to bring my own water and snacks anywhere I go to avoid the temptation. Even if it’s fruit or nuts to toss in my purse, it helps me to avoid wanting to buy something extra to munch on as I shop.

I Make My Own Tea/Coffee

I admit that I am a Starbucks fanatic. Their Teavana teas call my name every morning. But, I learned that I can save much more if I just make my own fruity teas at home. The same applies with brewing your own coffee. Take a walk down your grocery aisle and check out the huge varieties that are offered. The price I pay for one cup, I pay for a pack which will last me a little over a month.

Secret Santa

My family likes to do Secret Santa each year to save from having to buy everyone in the family a gift. It is also a fun way of giving, especially when trying to guess who your Secret Santa is. Pull names out of a hat and try the Secret Santa tradition. This way, you won’t have to plan presents for siblings, uncles, aunts, cousins, and everyone in between.

Cancel a Subscription

Are you really using that video stream subscription? If not, cancel it. I learned to make use of trial versions and researched resources that were free of charge, instead of paying full price. The great part…you can subscribe again after the holidays.

Become a Rewards Member

I probably have a rewards’ card to just about every grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station you can think of. Walgreens, Food Lion, Target, and even Walmart offer a shopper savings or rewards program. For each purchase, you can receive points to use for a later purchase, or you’re able to take advantage of discounted prices just for signing up.

Potluck

Having more than five guests this holiday? Try turning that grand holiday meal into a potluck. Ask your guests to bring a side dish or dessert. It even helps if they can provide drinks or other dinner essentials. It saves in the end.

How do you try and save money during the holidays?