Save Big on the Items You DIDN’T Get for Christmas
The holiday season is all but a memory and now you’re back to life as usual. Except for the fact that you can’t seem to forget that one gift you didn’t receive for Christmas. If it’s really bothering you and you can’t imagine waiting for next Christmas to get it, there are ways to save big on the gift you didn’t receive at Christmas. Use these tips to help you get that elusive gift for yourself in a budget-savvy way that doesn’t result in post-holiday debt.
- Check the After-Christmas Sales. Although you can find some good deals during the holiday shopping season, most everyone has an after-Christmas sale in which prices can be slashed by as much as 75 percent. This is the time to look for a variety of items from household appliances to a new piece of jewelry. Look specifically at stores that carry your item of interest and don’t buy before checking the competition’s prices.
- Shop the Online Discount Stores. Shop from the comfort of your desk or couch while finding the best deal online. The benefit of perusing online discount stores is that they also slash prices after the holidays, even though their prices were probably lower to begin with. As always, comparison shop; there are many discount stores available and they will all try to outdo each other to gain your business.
- Use Savings & Discounts Apps. If you never go anywhere without your smartphone, you shouldn’t go shopping without a couple of savings and discount apps on your phone. Use the search feature to look for deals on the item you want to buy. This is an excellent way to find extra savings on items you wish to buy locally.
- Wait Until the End of the Season. When you’re jonesing for an item that’s seasonal, such as outerwear, winter sports items or clothing, you’re better off practicing a little patience to get the best price. End of the season sales are here and can help you buy the item you want for a small fraction of the original retail price.
- Earn Extra Cash to Boost Your Shopping Budget. To offset the price of a big ticket item that hasn’t gone on sale and isn’t likely to be reduced, you can earn extra cash without getting another job. There are several ways to bring in extra money without expending lots of time. Sell unused items or gifts on eBay or at a yard sale. Likewise, you can earn money by volunteering in a medical trial that pay you for your time and participation.
The holiday season is but one time of the year to treat yourself to something you truly want or get an item you really need. With these budget savvy tips, you can save all year around and not have to feel deprived until Christmas comes around again. To make an occasional indulgence or unexpected necessity a pain-free financial possibility, set aside money each month—no matter how much or how little—in shopping and emergency funds.
