5 Ways to Stretch Your Holiday Budget

Confession time…I am a last minute and over-spending holiday shopper. Yes, I am the woman running from store to store on Christmas Eve. Feverishly, I search for my girls’ favourite things. Sadly, my lack of a plan means that I miss every pre-Christmas sale. In the end, I spend way too much. Every year I promise myself that I will look for ways to better navigate our holiday spending. Will this year be any different? I certainly hope so. This year, I will be making a few changes starting with trying out these 5 ways to stretch your holiday budget.

5 Ways to Stretch Your Holiday Budget

Plan Ahead – The first step to stretching the budget is to have a plan. While not everyone likes to make lists, this is one scenario where a list is your best friend. Start by creating a spreadsheet, include everyone on your holiday shopping list, what they would like for Christmas and how much you expect to spend on each recipient. Make sure the list is easily accessible. Store your holiday spreadsheet on your phone and print a copy to keep in your purse.

Be Rewarded for Your Purchases – One of our family’s favourite ways to save money during the holidays is to use the RBC Rewards program. All year long we earn points every time we use our RBC Rewards card. Come holiday time we are able to redeem our points and make holiday purchases without spending any money.

Shop Online – There are many benefits to shopping online for holiday gifts. Aside from saving time and not having to deal with crowded parking lots and long lines, online shopping cuts down on spending money on impulse purchases. It is surprising how quickly those little purchases can add up. RBC Rewards program clients can shop through the incredible online RBC Rewards eMall . Through the eMall, shoppers can find gifts for everyone on their list and earn bonus RBC Rewards points on every purchase. The eMall includes over 250 top retailers like the Gap, Old Navy and Home Depot.

Handmade Love – The holidays are a great time to get crafty. Take the time to plan out how you can add a little handmade love to your holiday. Friends and family will forever cherish treasures that are made from scratch. Start small and recruit the kids to make simple gift tags and wrapping paper. Handmade items can save money in the budget and add a personal touch to the holiday.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday – In recent years, Canadian businesses have been taking part in the mega-sale day Black Friday. Starting on Black Friday (November 28th) thru to Cyber Monday (December 1st) RBC Rewards will be offering shoppers bonus points on almost all purchases made through the RBC Rewards eMall. You get to take advantage of the great deals from your favourite retailers and earn bonus points at the same time.

My daughters will be sharing all of their Christmas wishes in their letters to Santa Claus this weekend. Those letters are the official beginning of my holiday budgeting. With a clear plan this year, I think I can avoid my last minute, over-spending ways this holiday.