The weather outside is frightful. Your bank balance is far from delightful. Whilst undoubtedly being one of the happiest and most joyous times of year it is also, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the most expensive. In fact, research undertaken by YouGov has revealed that the cost of this year's holiday season will plunge almost two thirds of people in Britain into debt. The worrying report also found that one in 10 people will lose control of their festive spending altogether.
Alarming discoveries indeed. So, what strategies can you adopt to avoid spiralling debts hanging from the tree this year? Well, fortunately, the answer is a lot. There are a number ways you can make Christmas a cheaper, yet equally enjoyable, experience for all involved.
To start with, why not kill two birds with one stone and significantly bolster the present fund with a clear out of any unwanted items within your home. Car boot sales are an excellent way of making money quickly and easily and has the extra bonus of enabling you to clear your house of a whole host of unwanted items and clutter, particularly useful if it's your turn to host the family gatherings this year. What's more, by the time the big spring clean rolls around your fundraising could have helped make it a considerably less arduous task. One man's waste is another man's treasure, so pretty much anything can go into a car boot.
Alternatively, look towards eBay and other similar services as an outlet for your unwanted goods. Though selling through these methods may take more time, you are also likely to generate a greater amount of money than you would by offering the same item at a car boot sale.
As a general rule of thumb, keep eBay and other auction sites as an avenue for selling your most valuable items and those in the best condition, particularly if there is a high demand. As you sit back and watch competitors drive the price, and therefore your earnings, up, start planning exactly what that cash injection can go towards.
Credit cards could also provide the answer to your festive finance questions. The major benefit of having a credit card is, of course, that it allows you to purchase a service or a product now, and pay for it later. What's more, they can be easier and safer to carry around than hard cash and are particularly useful for buying things online. It is important, however, that you find a deal that suits you so be sure to undergo a thorough credit card comparison before making your decision.
For a further money saving tip, why not get creative this Christmas and enjoy the rewards as your wallet stays nice and (relatively) full? Homemade chutney and jams make ideal stocking fillers and can even be used as presents for distant relatives or friends. A small initial outlay to purchase the ingredients can cater for any number of gifts and is a quick, cheap and simple way of keeping lots of people very happy.
On the other hand, if your skills are more at home on the craft table than in the kitchen, turn your attention to making your own Christmas cards. Anything that is homemade is gratefully received, as it is clear that an extra amount of thought and effort has gone into it. Designing and creating your own also allows you to tailor the card for each individual person and really go the extra mile for that special someone.
Employing some or all of these tweaks and ideas can help enhance your festive experience and leave you free to enjoy the best of the season without any financial headaches.
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