Yahoo Finance Christmas money savers: 10 tips for a budget-friendly celebration
With interest rates on the rise, pain at the petrol pump and supermarket bill-shock a weekly occurrence, families all over Australia are going to be feeling the crunch this holiday season, but don't worry, Christmas on a budget doesn't have to be boring. Here are 10 top tips for saving money this festive season.
1. Opt for a non-traditional Christmas meal
Switch the ham for a chook and skimp on the seafood this year for a hearty Christmas meal that doesn't break the bank. Christmas tacos anyone?
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2. Host a 'bring a plate' Christmas event
It's rare to have a guest arrive with nothing in arm, so why not get a little organised and co-ordinate a bring-a-plate Christmas lunch? If Gran brews the punch, Steve brings the snags and Hannah's on the ham, Christmas lunch is sure to be a budget blast for the whole fam.
3. Bulk up meals with salads and sides
It's meat and three veg, not three meats and a vegetable. Opt for smaller serves of meat, tons of salad and tasty sides to help boost health outcomes for the people you love most and save a bunch of money at the same time.
4. Don't overbuy
It's easy to overbuy at Christmas, but a little planning goes a long way. Work out how many people you're feeding, how many times and plan accordingly. Order online and never shop hungry to avoid the temptation of impulse buys.
5. Try a creative alternative to a Christmas tree
Sure, pine smells great, but let's face it, you've never got to the farm early enough to get a good tree and you're not about to start now. The team at Bunnings has some cracking pot plants.
6. Use natural and recycled materials
DIY decorations are so hot right now. Get on to Google then get out there and collect some pine cones. A bit of metallic spray paint and you're golden.
7. Do a Secret Santa
What do Irish-Catholic families and corporate offices have in common? That's right - Secret Santa. With Secret Santa, everyone gets to save money while choosing a super special gift for one lucky family member. No silly socks this year, dad.
8. Buy second-hand or visit your local op-shop
The only thing hotter than DIY Christmas decorations is upcyling. Spruce up some old furniture for a unique gift that's full of love, or splurge at Vinnies for a teenage Christmas stocking.
9. Play tourist in your own backyard
If you've gone to book a flight recently and nearly had a heart attack, you're not alone. Why not stick a little closer to home this year and explore everything your own region has to offer? Home is where the heart is after all.
10. House swap with family or friends
If you do really need to get away, but can't stomach paying thousands of dollars for an unpowered campsite with no toilet, house swapping can be a great option. Catch up at family Christmas then trade keys for a holiday without the hefty price tag. What's not to love?
Head over to the CHOICE website for more fantastic ideas for a fun-filled festive season on limited funds.
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