How To Spend Less This Christmas

At least now saving money in this new era of austerity makes it more acceptable and dare I say fashionable, to cut back on our spending at Christmas.

Here are some ideas for presents and stocking fillers which cost next to nothing.

Instead of rushing out and buying boxes of chocolates why not make your own sweets.  Fudge is easy, vanilla slice absolutely delicious and peppermint creams are surprisingly simple to make.  The kids can also get involved too as peppermints creams and coconut slice require no cooking Click here for these Sweet Recipes.

Instead of a physical present why not give a couples hours of your time. (Or even better request someone give you their time).

• This could be for baby sitting.
• Washing the car
• Housework or gardening
• A manicure or pedicure
• Always ask for free samples when you buy cosmetics, these will make great stocking fillers.
• Give away things you longer use or need as presents.
• Take cuttings from plants in your garden.
• Get tickets for your favourite BBC show from www.bbc.co.uk/tickets – make sure you check on age limits if you are buying tickets for children.
• Don’t buy so many presents – lets face it Christmas is for the kids.

Set up A Secret Santa Scheme

Each person buys a gift for one other person, chosen by ballot, spending to an agreed limit.

Alternatively, make opening cheap treats more fun by putting them, wrapped, into a festively decorated dustbin filled with shredded newspaper and turning present-giving into a Lucky Dip.

Share the Cost of Christmas Dinner

Share the cost of Christmas by gathering as many members of the family together as you can. Each person can provide one element – the turkey, booze, puddings, etc.

Doing some or all of these things and you will save a significant amount of money and guess what, still have a really great Christmas.