Savvy Holiday Saving

We know Savvy Savers are well on their way to achieving financial goals for the year and understand the importance of staying on track. In the spirit of planning ahead, it is never to early to start planning your holiday gift list.

Make a Plan

Procrastinators who rush to the store at the last minute are tempted to overextend or dip into emergency funds to get the hottest gifts for loved-ones. Ensure you stay on track with your financial goals by making a plan for holiday gift-giving. Start by drafting a list of recipients, that includes family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Next, come up with a budget after carefully examining your progress towards annual goals and overall financial picture.

With SmartyPig, you can create individual savings goals and set up automatic deposits each payday. The easy-to-use platform and high interest rates motivate you to save more, so you can achieve your financial goals. If you figure $50 per person and can allocate $1,000, you’ll be able to purchase gifts for 20 individuals!

Do the Research

If you know what you’re looking for in advance, you can scan circulars and browse online for deals throughout the year. Sign up for email alerts and coupons to get the best prices. Reward programs are another way to hear about sales in advance and find the best bargains on the must-have items of the year. Plus, purchases made in the early part of the year may yield coupons and discounts over the summer months.

Boost Your Earning Power

Increase your holiday budget by finding new ways to earn money throughout the year. A flexible side-hustle like a part-time job or driving for a ridesharing service can quickly boost your bank account. Consider working with an event management company. Weddings, concerts, and various festivals keep them busy, and they staff a variety of positions including greeter, ticket sales, waiter, bartender, decorator, stagehand, and coordinator. Many camps and child care programs ramp up this time of year as well. Share your knowledge and mentor kids as a camp counselor, activity instructor or tutor. As families go on vacation, you may find opportunities as a pet-sitter or dog walker.

Get Crafty

Gift-giving doesn’t have to be a pricey endeavor! Handmade gifts have that personal touch that makes a recipient feel special. Find inspiration for trendy and one-of-a-kind items in online craft forums and digital boutiques. Before you head to your local craft store, be sure to check their website for coupons and weekly discounts. 

Make your holiday season stress-free and budget-friendly by planning ahead this year, so you can focus on what really matters during the holidays: spending quality time with friends and family.

After the celebrations, take advantage of end-of-season sales. Most retailers offer substantial discounts on holiday decorations and paper goods. Stock up now, and you’ll be ready when the holiday season rolls around again next year!