While the holidays are the most joyous time of the year, they can also easily become the most stressful. Along with spending time with loved ones, attending holiday parties, sipping on egg nog and munching on Christmas cookies and Hanukkah latkes, it’s also the time of year where budgets are easily blown. The holidays are the biggest shopping season of the year and it’s no wonder that they can be just as financially straining as they are merry. We’ve compiled a list of genius ways to save money this holiday season below.
Start with a plan:
The easiest way to go overboard with holiday spending is to not have a plan in place before you begin. Set a holiday budget and make a list of gifts you’ll need ahead of time to avoid overspending or overextending yourself. Utilize apps like Santa’s Bag to keep your spending in check.
Cash in credit card rewards:
Many credit cards come with some type of incentivizing rewards program. Whether it be cash back, a points system or airline miles, now is the time to cash them in! You can easily cross one gift off your list by exchanging your credit card points for a gift card to one of your loved one’s favorite stores or restaurants! Save on your holiday travel by using some of your miles that just keep adding up or put that cash back to good use.
Utilize money saving apps and services:
There are tons of apps and services out there that can help you save money (Billshark being one of them, of course!). If you are doing most of your holiday shopping online this season, the browser extension, Honey, is perfect for you! Honey automatically applies coupon codes for you so you don’t have to go searching for them.
Subscribe for discounts:
While we hate spam email as much as you do, sometimes it pays to sign up. Many brands and companies will send you a discount code just for signing up to their email list. The 20% savings you’ll get right to your inbox is worth the time it’ll take you to unsubscribe later.
Don’t complete your checkout:
Oftentimes, if you leave items in your online checkout cart, that company might send you a discount code just to persuade you to complete your order. Whether it’s a free shipping code or a percentage off, something is definitely better than nothing! These little savings add up.
Stay social:
Many companies and brands will offer special promotions to their followers on social media that the general public may not ever be aware of. If you know your significant other, little one or coworker is wanting something particular for the holidays, follow that brand on social media in hopes that they’ll have a special sale, free shipping discount, or VIP promo code.
The entire Billshark team wishes all of you the happiest of holidays!