Holidays on a Budget

Bargain-Shopping for the Holidays

Before maxing out your credit card and dampening your yuletide spirit with mounting debt, consider alternatives to high-price gift-giving and learn how it truly is the thought that counts when it comes to the holidays.

The key to sticking to your holiday budget is to begin shopping early to take advantage of seasonal sales and special promotions. It helps to pick up gift items throughout the year to stock your gift pantry. It might take a bit of careful planning to make the most of year-round shopping, but it can really pay off.

Dollar stores, while not likely to contain too many wish-list items, can help shoppers save money on items like wrapping paper and party items. They can also come in handy for those little extras needed to top your gifts or fill stockings. Candles, candy, small toys, etc…can be found inexpensively to round out your gifts.

Many shoppers have lots of luck shopping on eBay for brand new items at reasonable prices. Crystal, clothing, toys, and jewelry - nearly anything under the sun can be found on the site. Pay attention, however, to shipping costs, and be sure to ascertain that the items you will bid on are, indeed, new with tags. There are many online stores that should also be included on your shopping list; be sure to compare prices before actually making your purchase.

When it comes to your gift list, try to do your decision making at home, away from the bustle of stores. Decide who you want to buy for, as well as how much you can afford to spend for each person on your list. Then, try to come up with some ideas for each person before leaving for the mall. Remaining organized will keep you on track and may help you avoid making unnecessary purchases.

Finally, stock your gift pantry with items that are sure to appeal to various people on your gift list. Try to catch sales and stock your pantry with items like: toys, books, movies, stationary, jewelry, unique pottery pieces, clothing, or handbags. If there's a baker in the family, a basket filled with interesting cookie cutters along with a recipe book can be a great gift that can be worked on throughout the year.

Anyone with children will want to take advantage of sales at toy stores, which often offer two-for-the-price-of-one deals of action figures and similar items. Avoiding the big-name commercial stores and checking out the toy aisle in other types of stores can also result in cost-savings. Tuesday Mornings, for example, offers a great selection of interesting and specialty toys at unbelievable prices.

Knowing your recipients' needs and tastes is very helpful when it comes to choosing items. The better you know them and their needs, the easier your shopping experience will be.

11/05/07  By J.A. Young