Tackling Holiday Shopping: Easy Tips for Shopping Like a Pro This Season
Despite all of the extra spending that happens during the holidays, there are ways to get everything you need while staying on a budget! From finding great deals online to making your money go further, we've got tips for getting the gift you know they'll love without breaking the bank.
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Combine and conquer a large family. Forget about buying individual gifts for members of your extended family. That only multiplies your gift budget. Instead, give group gifts and shrink your spending. For instance, wrap up a family pass to the zoo for your sister and her brood. Or arrange for your parents to receive a six-month subscription to a video-on-demand service like Netflix, Amazon, or Hulu.
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Customize a gift basket for the hard-to-buy-for. Everyone has a passion. It could be gardening or Schnauzers, coffee or travel. Find out what thrills your someone special, and fill a basket or other container with appropriate, inexpensive finds.
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Gift cards can be worth giving. They are perfect for friends, family members, and coworkers, especially when they come at discounted prices. A membership at Sam’s Club, Costco, or BJ’s Wholesale Club means you can buy gift cards for them below face value.
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Regifting is an art form. When is it appropriate, and when does it turn awkward? In many cases there’s nothing wrong with giving a gift you got from someone else, as long as it is new, still in its original packaging, and something they will really like. Just be sure you spring for nice wrapping paper and a new name tag.
For even more tips on how to tackle holiday shopping like a pro, check out Sitting Pretty on a Fixed Income.
- FC&A Staff Writer
