Christmas is one of the nicest times of the year, but it is also one of the most expensive. However, with a little bit of organisation and a lot of planning you can enjoy the big day without the stress or going into huge debt.

 

The following five tips will help you beat the financial stress and let you celebrate Christmas for what it’s really about – spending time with family.  

 

1. Make a realistic budget

There is no point setting a limit that you know you won’t be able to stick too; sit down and write a list of presents you need to buy and how much you would like to spend on each person. Once you have your list look over it and try to find ways to cut back before setting on your final budget.

 

2. Start buying now

While it might seem a little too early to be Christmas shopping, picking up bits and bobs here and there will mean you won’t have to dedicate an entire month’s salary to the season in December. And shopping before the rush means you can skip out on the mad panic at Christmas Eve.

 

 

3. Don’t do dinner on your own

If you have the pleasure of hosting the big dinner in your home, ask people to bring something along. If there are a few guests coming you can delegate the vegetables, meat, dessert and treats around so that one person won't have to bare the entire financial burden.

 

4. Do a family Kris Kindle

While you will still have to get the kids individual gifts, if you do a Kris Kindle with the adults and set a small budget you will save yourself a lot of hassle, and money.

 

5. Look online

The internet is a great place to find a bargain but you need to order well in advance so your purchases arrive before the big day. With a number of online shops having a clearance sale now, it is the ideal time to pick up a gift.

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