It's the most wonderful time of the year, or so the song goes.
What all the Christmas carols leave out, however, is that it's also one of the most expensive times of the year.
Between food, presents, decorations and drinks, Christmas can be a massive hit to even the most frugal spender's bank account.
So we’ve put together a handy list of the top six ways you can stretch your precious dough this festive season:
1. Luxury on a budget
Fancy giving a loved one a special treat day to treat themselves this Christmas? Sites such as Groupon and Pigsback are perfect for last minute spa and weekend break ideas. Keeping the mother-in-law and the back pocket happy? Win-win!
2. Pop the Prosecco
Want the bubbly but trying not to be broke? Get yourself down to Aldi, where bottles of Prosecco start at a mere €10!
3. Pantomine on the pennies
Sign up to mailing lists for sites such as Ticketmaster to take advantage of 2 for 1 deals and discounts across a range of Christmas shows.
4. Stocking fillers galore
Why get a medium sized present for €20 when you can get four for €5 each? Shops like Flying Tiger and the nations favourite, Penneys, are great for those little bits and bobs without cracking open the piggy bank.
5. D.I.Y decorations
Get your craft this Christmas and save a ton on decorations this Christmas. The Internet is packed full of cute and alternative ways to glam up your abode. Why not get the kids involved to make decorations as well as memories?
6. Saving with Secret Santa
For larger families, Kris Kindle is the perfect way to spread the Christmas cheer without spreading yourself too thin. Or take Secret Santa one step further with a “lucky dip” style present giving.
Happy Christmas and happy piggy bank!
