From a £17.99 real tree to Iceland's £22 Christmas dinner: How to do Christmas on a budget
Christmas is expensive. No matter how much fun it is and no matter how festive, it always makes a major dent in our bank account. Or our overdraft....
From the cost of travelling home to the price of presents and the Christmas parties to the decorations, it's a never ending stream of ways to spend money.
So if you're feeling the pinch read on for some tips on how to keep costs down this year. And we've picked out some of the best bargains around so you don't have to. You're welcome.
How to do Christmas without breaking the bank
1. Set a budget
Boring but essential. Take a look at your actual income and decide how much you can spare for the manic month of December. Then stick to it.
2. Agree a spending limit
Talking about money can be awkward but not as awkward as trying to pay for something and seeing 'Declined' flash up on the card reader. So agree a spending limit with those you're buying gifts for. Trust us, they'll be grateful and this way nobody will feel hard done by or embarrassed that they should have spent more.
It could also be a good idea to buy just one gift for your family rather than individual presents. A board game you can all play together or a fun experience could not only be more cost effective but will help cement those familial bonds too.
If you are going to stick to separate gifts for everyone then make a list of what you'll buy and don't deviate. Impulse buying will only result in badly chosen items and a waste of money.
3. Do Secret Santa
Secret Santa shouldn't just be reserved for office parties. Get your group of friends together and put names in a hat. You each buy one gift for one person, ensuring everyone receives something. And keep the spending to under £10, which is totally possible. See below for brilliant and non-tacky ideas.
4. Do the homemade thing
It may be a cliché but giving something you've made yourself really does mean more. And the fact it's usually cheaper is a side benefit. From baking to craft kits, there's a way to go DIY to suit everyone.
Or consider offering your services as a present. Maybe you could suggest babysitting or dog walking or house sitting. All will be welcome and will show how thoughtful you are. And they won't cost you a penny.
5. Prioritise
Remember that budget you set? Sticking to it may require you to make some compromises. So look at all the social events you've been invited to and prioritise. We know, it's a vibe killer but you can't be the life and soul of every party. So choose the ones you can afford.
6. Split the cost of hosting
Want to create your own Christmas tradition with friends? Then host a festive feast where you all chip in an agreed amount towards the food and drinks. Or allocate a dish to each member of the crew which they will not only provide but prepare as well. Sharing is caring.
7. Book in advance
Travelling home for Christmas? Then book your train tickets / ferry / flights ASAP if you haven't already. There is no such thing as a last minute deal when it comes to travel costs. The prices only rise, so get ahead of the game and save yourself some money.
BUDGET FRIENDLY BUYS
Christmas Dinner
If you've got a lot of mouths to feed on Christmas Day but are short on cash or time then Iceland's £22 Christmas dinner, which serves around six people, could be a godsend. Included in its frozen food deal are a boneless turkey breast joint, pigs in blankets, honey roast parsnips, McCain Roast Potatoes, 20 pork, sage and onion stuffing balls, sprouts and Iceland’s Irish Cream Gateau.
It has divided opinion on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Group on Facebook where a member posted about the meal deal last week, with some describing it as 'lazy' due to all the elements being frozen and ready to cook, while others said it would be perfect for struggling families on a tight budget.
It's a real money saver and will also leave you with more time to be with your friends and family on Christmas Day, so what's no to love?
Christmas Jumper
You know you love a Christmas jumper but there's no need to spend a fortune. What is the point ? After all you'll only wear it once or twice a year.
Merry & Bright Christmas Jumper
George Fairisle Santa Christmas Jumper
Christmas party outfit
Looking your sparkly best for the Christmas party doesn't have to cost the earth, or mean buying a new outfit. Consider dressing up a look you already own with a spangly accessory or two.
Large Rainbow Hoop Earrings
Rose Gold Diamante Buckle Belt
Sequin Stripe Clutch Bag
Secret Santa
As we've already established, Secret Santa is a brilliant way to save money (and the hassle) of shopping for everyone in your group. But it doesn't have to be naff or novelty. These great gifts are all a tenner or less.
Geranium & Sage Bath bag Infusers
Anatomy of Cycling Postcards
Bitten Design Set of two Rainbow Drip Candles
Woodland Bottle Stopper
Christmas Trees and Decorations
You can get festive without maxing out your credit card. Here are some affordable Christmas trees and decorations to get you started.
Pot Grown Non Drop Nordmann Fir Christmas Tree
Argos Home 5ft Noel Christmas Tree
Pack of 100 Mini Baubles
George Home 36 Pack Gold Baubles
Gold Glitter Star Tree Topper
Argos Home Star LED String Lights
For more Christmas features and gift guides, see www.telegraph.co.uk/christmas
