We only buy for the kids these days and keep a pretty strick budget on it.

Always make a list and buy cards/paper when on special after Christmas to store away.

Keeping a gifting list definitely helps I try to start early in the year to spread it out

Chrisco can be a good idea. I usually write lists and prices down to budget.

A lot of budgeting is just common sense. Live within your means, not to impress the neighbours or the family

I listen intently to conversations as sometimes I get good clues for useful Christmas presents. I mainly buy for my little great nieces and great nephews. Things such as books, sometimes educational, toys that we know they will be interested in for awhile and preferably are partly developmental, craft materials that the Mum and child can do together (one family in particular), clothes if needed. Little ones grow so quickly that a family with 2 or more children can find it hard to keep up with even the basic needs

I always check out after Christmas sales and put little gifts away. Love to buy when 75% or more off.

Get the shopping done as early as possible that way you’re not racing around buying an “it’ll do” present that cost over your budget just so you have something to give.

Gift giving does not come naturally to me. I prefer to not do it. I just ask people to not include us in any present swapping. My children don’t need much so we don’t buy a lot. Christmas is cheap for us.

I bought presents that I knew the recipients would like ( casually asked them through the year ) and paid by credit card that I had been putting extra in throughout the year. By Christmas I didn’t have to worry about money as my cards were in the black. Woohoo

I kept within my budget this year – hurrah

It is really easy to over spend at Christmas. I really love buying gifts for people. I always have a budget and make sure I stick to it and I try to get as organised as I can in the months leading up to Christmas.

I try not to use the credit card and use cash instead to stay in control and buy what I can afford

I start buying presents in July for this reason, get a flybuys card, Woolworths reward card to help take money off your shop

I must admit I don’t spend much money at Christmas time. And I only buy what I can afford.

• • 
  • • mom93821 replied
    • 31 Dec 2018 , 6:43 pm

  ---

  Smart move and we are the same – we buy what we can afford and we always look ahead.

We try cut down who we buy for and spend time together instead we do this for Birthdays too. I also start early to spread the costs out.

Nope! we do not use credit cards. No one should get in debt for Christmas – it is not worth the stress and debt.

Good points !
My friend and neighbour is a great example. She doesn’t spend more then $10 per child/person !

Always mindful of my spending and try to buy throughout the year at Better prices

We only spend what is in the budget,no point going in the New Year in debt!