The holidays are my favorite time of year. After spending months working, taking exams, and applying for graduate schools, it is really nice to take a step back and spend time with my family and friends. There is no better feeling than sitting with all of the people I love while engaging in traditions I have grown up with over the years. I know my family and I love to spend the day after Thanksgiving decorating the house, our Christmas tree, and our favorite sugar cookies while listening to holiday music. It makes me appreciate all that I have in life.
While trying to enjoy all of these wonderful festivities, it can be really overwhelming to think of how much everything costs. Everything from the turkey to the gifts all have a price and sometimes it can get too stressful.
Luckily, there are some very helpful ways to reduce the spending during the holidays that will let you relax and enjoy this time.
I know my family in particular uses a fake Christmas tree in order to reduce spending. We pull our tree out from basement each year and it looks just as beautiful as a regular tree, plus it is a lot less work! The lights are already on the tree and everything so all you have to do is decorate and you’re done!
When it comes to presents, with many people it’s the thought that counts. My friend is paying a small fee to have her high school friend take pictures of her and her siblings to give to her parents. This is an easy and cheap way to give a memorable gift. So find something that could be heartwarming that doesn’t break the bank. These are often the presents that people love the most.
Holiday activities are also a must, especially if you have little ones. Children just have to see Santa every year and tell him what they want for Christmas or go ice skating under the twinkling lights. But sometimes it is just too expensive for the whole family to take part in this. That’s where finding affordable activities can be a real lifesaver. The National Christmas Trees in Washington D.C. are a great way to experience the holidays and are 100% FREE. There is even Santa there to take pictures with the kids.
So remember, the holidays don’t have to bleed you dry! There are plenty of ways to save money without the stress of spending.
What ways do you save money during the holidays? Tell us about it in the comments below!
P.S. For 14 more ways to save money during the holidays, check out this article and let us know how you save money during the holiday season.