It's not too early for Christmas saving and planning – Money Saving Amy shares her latest hints and tips as the cost-of-living crisis rumbles on
As families struggle to get by through the cost-of-living crisis, the Star has teamed up with ‘Money Saving Amy’ in a bid to help families with some handy hints and tips.
Hello everyone. You may be thinking is this really about Christmas in September? But, it’s now less than 100 days until Christmas, and shops are in full swing with filled seasonal aisles and Christmas clothing galore! Which means it’s a great time to start saving and planning so here’s a few tips and tricks, writes Amy Grayland.
Gifting
Firstly, and this one is so important, being open and honest with friends and family about gifting. It’s so important not to put yourself under pressure or get into debt for one day. Everyone’s feeling the pinch this year and this is a great time to perhaps suggest to family and friends that you set a clear budget, or don’t even buy for each other. How about suggesting a Christmas meet up instead? Perhaps everyone can chip in to get some Christmas nibbles and drinks and someone can host the get together. Or grab a nice Christmas themed coffee and head for a walk in a park, rather than buying gifts. Creating memories can be just as lovely as buying or receiving gifts.
Another way to save on Christmas gifting is using apps such as Vinted to buy clothing, beauty, toys, books and more. Along with Facebook Marketplace, you could find some real bargains.
And of course there’s the charity shops, I’m starting to notice Christmas jumpers in them and this is a great place to not only support a charity but to get great value gifts and Christmas wear.
If your little ones love wearing Christmas clothing, what about getting creative and buying a cheap t-shirt from primark and getting some fabric pens and letting them design there own Christmas clothing. Don’t forget, if you’re buying from primark and other shops, to use the Jam Doughnut app for instant cashback.
