Thank you to Diane R. Schmidt at SavingsMania for this great post!
It’s hard to get into the holiday mood when it’s 90 degrees out, but I find a little preparation during the summer means less financial stress as the holidays approach. Here is how I save money on the upcoming holidays.
Tip #1: Make a list.
I've started making a list of gift ideas and keeping an eye out when I go shopping. For example, if someone on my list wanted cookware, Target has recently started clearancing Calphalon and other cookware. (And another Target tip, clearance becomes almost non-existent as the holidays get closer, I have noticed this every year. So if you see some great clearance, get it now!)
Tip #2: Save gift cards.
Whether I receive them as gifts (and can't use them), from point programs, etc. I am saving them for gifts.
Tip #3:Make photo holiday cards early.
Snapfish and Shutterfly regularly offer free holiday cards and I order them as early as October.
Tip #4: Organize holiday stuff.
I recently started organizing my basement and putting items up on shelves, where I could see what I had. Grouping like items, like wrapping paper, ornaments, etc. helps me to see what I have, so I don’t buy duplicates.
Tip #5:Pay attention to sales now.
Toys R Us has a great toy clearance sale during July and August, a good time to stock up on toys. Also, Target clearances toys end of July and end of January, a good time to stock up!
Tip #6: Stash away freebies.
Many magazines and web sites give away nice freebies. I have been saving them as gifts. For example, O magazine and Martha Stewart magazine regularly have giveaway promotions. Sometimes you have to make a purchase, other times you just have to mail in your name and address. Their items are high quality and perfect for gifts. I’ve received free photo frames, a spice rack and more.
Tip #7: Have someone on your list who loves magazines?
Get free magazine subscriptions for them as a gift from MyCokeRewards.com and Recyclebank.com.
Tip #8: Keep an eye on Amazon.com.
I have found that their prices are among the lowest on everything from kitchen appliances to toys and more. They also have sales as early as October, so it makes sense to start your holiday shopping early.
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I love these ideas. I have a good one that I use quite often. At the end of the season the stores mark down alot of things from clothes to household items to hygiene items. I buy them for Christmas gifts. Last year i gave my daughter 3 pairs of flip flops for Christmas! Who cares if they are out of season at that time, she had them when the Spring thaw arrived! Also, alot of people wear tank tops under their regular tops, they are ALWAYS marked down to practically nothing! Thanks fo rthe tips and I hope my tips helped too.