Bitesize Christmas budgeting – part 2

Our second instalment of tips to help you stretch those Christmas pounds.

• Check return/exchange policies. Most retailers extend their returns policy over the Christmas period but if in doubt ask for a gift receipt so you can include it with the gift.
• Be aware of delivery times. Make sure you order early enough to have all your deliveries with you a couple of weeks before Christmas. You won’t feel let down when that perfect gift doesn’t arrive or have to spend even more money on finding a replacement.
• Consider starting some new Christmas traditions. Why not send eCards instead of buying and posting them? It’ll be good for the environment too! Buy your Christmas essentials like crackers and decorations in the January sales. Have a pre-Christmas clear out of the things you don’t wear or use anymore and pack it off to the charity shops
• 3 for the price of 2. Some shops have great offers at Christmas time so check to see if they have a 3 for 2 offer. You get the cheapest item free which could mean an extra stocking filler for a friend. Shop even savvier by making sure all three items are the same price so you make the maximum saving!
• Got a Christmas party to attend? Save some cash by recycling an old dress or suit and jazz it up with a new accessory e.g. shoes, bag or tie. You’ll look great but you’ll feel even more fabulous when you see that saved money still safely in your account!