The holidays bring us so much. Cheerful, happy people hustling about shopping for their loved ones. Financially, Frugal Home Christmas shopping can take a toll on people. Learning how to shop to get everything on your list will make this Christmas the best.
Make a Christmas list with a Plan
What does it mean to make a list with a plan? Don’t just go out an randomly shop. It is easier to know what you are getting, and where to shop for the items. For example, I need to buy a special book request. Before I go out, I will look at several places that may have that book on my list. Then, I will search for the any coupons those stores may have on Black Friday. Most of my shopping is done on that day with the best deals.
Next, while I am in the store, I will check my list for other items on my list. The current store may have something else that I need for a good price, or I may have to write down an idea for the next one.
Keep only immediate family on the List
We started a tradition several year’s ago, to set a budget and buy for our family. My husband was in construction. Money was tight. For us, we had to make some hard decisions at Christmas. It would be great if we could buy for everyone, but we could not. People that we don’t see, gift exchanges, work acquaintances, church family, distant relatives were cut from our list. This helped us to stay focused on our immediate family, and stay within our frugal home budget.
After marriage it seems like the gift list grows because another side has been added to the gift list. That is one reason that we decided to go with just our immediate family. Grandparents, brothers and sisters, and in-laws made our list.
To keep our Christmas simple and fair we choose one side each year to participate in a gift exchange. Since most kids love to get presents all of the adults buy for the kids. Black Friday is the day that we buy most of our toy items to keep is simple and cheap.
Minimalize the shopping Trips
After the big shopping trip head out one more time to finish up. The closer that Christmas comes, the more items will be out of stock, gas and money will be spent.
After two trips the final time to head out is for the Christmas dinner items. Cutting down on trips out will eliminate spontaneous shopping and spending.
Bring back the old-fashioned Christmas where family was more important than gifts. Enjoy the festivities and surround your children with a new legacy. A legacy that has been forgotten with all of the hustle and bustle we have created.
For more adventures in frugal home life, homeschooling, and homemaking with boys follow me at momsarefrugal on Instagram.
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