Although many people start preparing to buy Christmas gifts in time, there are still many who leave it for the last few days, often on the eve of Christmas Day. This causes them to spend more money than they initially anticipated and they still have to make their purchases in a hurry. So, if you still have to buy your gifts, find out why should have already started this “mission” and how it can be successful as far as savings are concerned.
Stretch your budget to save money this Christmas
The first step to save this year on your Christmas gifts is to stick to the budget you initially set🇧🇷 Even though the ideal is to save money during the year for your Christmas presents doesn’t mean you have to spend all your savings on gifts. The “trick” to buy gifts and save money is to define how much are you willing to spend on each gift and stick to that maximum value.For example, suppose that this Christmas you are going to give gifts to 10 people and you don’t want to spend more than €200. This means that, on average, each person will have a gift of around €20. However, you can find gifts below this budget. In fact, the sooner you do your shopping, more variety and offer you will find, meeting the budget.We leave you a suggestion that can help you save: the “10 euro challenge”. This consists of buying the maximum amount of products up to a certain amount. To make it even more interesting, invite your friends to join this challenge. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also try to instill this good habit in your friends. Also read: Want to save on Christmas gifts? The trick is in the budget
Avoid inflation spikes by buying early
Due to rising inflation and its impact on Portuguese people’s lives over the last few months, there is no guarantee that prices will remain as they are until Christmas. So the sooner you buy your gifts, the more likely you are to save money. Although inflation dropped slightly in November to 9.9%, this does not mean that the decline will continue in December. By the way, if demand during the holiday month increases, prices may rise for retailers to maximize profits.if you choose order your gifts online, pay attention to postage value🇧🇷 First check if the shipping costs are included or if the amount is different from the usual, if you have already made purchases on the chosen platform. Due to the holiday season, these may be significantly higher or require a minimum payment higher than normal. If you place several orders, you could end up paying several tens of euros without realizing it. Is it possible to save even with the price increase? Also read: Save on Christmas gifts? A handful of suggestions up to 10 euros
Avoid the last Christmas gift rush
When shopping in the last few days before Christmas, you can find many people doing the same. Not only will it be difficult to find what you want, but you will also waste time in long queues. When buying your gifts in advance, you can avoid the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season and enjoy shopping more peacefully🇧🇷 Furthermore, it also allows you to prepare the Christmas Eve more calmly and relax with your family🇧🇷 In addition to these advantages, when you buy in advance you can have more time to look at all the options🇧🇷 This will help you not only find something the other person really likes, but also an affordable price that won’t break the bank. Also read: Low cost Christmas gifts: Discover 8 ideas to inspire you
Avoid order delays and products running out
Ordering very close to Christmas Day is always a risk, also due to the high demand at that time🇧🇷 Delays in orders, damaged products, among other situations can occur if you wait until the end of December to make your purchases. In addition, if you need to change any product, you will hardly be able to change it in time for Christmas. Sometimes, even if orders are placed in store🇧🇷 If you prefer via online, be aware that waiting times can be much longer🇧🇷 In addition to possible delays, don’t forget that the longer you wait, the more likely your products will sell out, especially if there’s too much demand. If it is impossible to make your purchases in time, in order to safeguard your initial choice, have a secondary plan in case you can’t find the product you want🇧🇷 Alternatively, consider ordering the product, even if you haven’t decided yet, to ensure it arrives before Christmas. However, make sure you can return it free of chargeRead more: 7 reasons to buy Christmas gifts early this year
The perfect gift at the ideal price
If you start your “gift hunt” on time, you can also manage to reduce stress and look for the perfect gift for people who are most difficult to offer something🇧🇷 This advantage of finding the “perfect gift” can allow you not only to buy what the other person likes, but also to get the best price. Planning your purchases is essential. Having a clear idea of what you want to see, the stores you are going to visit and what prices are charged, will save you a lot of time. For example, before visiting the physical stores, do a little research online and look for what you have in mind to offer each person. Then make a list of the products you liked the most. Next, go to the physical stores to clear up any doubts you may have. The size of the clothes, the colors, among other characteristics may differ, it can be advantageous to see the products in person.In addition to these advantages, having a plan already defined, you will hardly “get lost” in your shopping and end up buying the first gift you find. Already if you have time and you have no idea where you can find what you want, the most likely thing is to end up pick something to just “get it over with”.Also read: Christmas expenses: How to avoid them affecting your wallet
A professional writer by day, a tech-nerd by night, with a love for all things money.