Ten ways to save NOW for the coming festive season

‘TIS almost the season for eating, drinking, holidays, gifts and festivities – and you’ll be smart to watch your finances now, so that you’re not left doing last-minute budgeting come January.

Not everyone wants to crunch numbers ahead of the holidays, but there are some clever ways to save costs now without marring the fun – or having to resort to leaving the coins out of the Christmas pudding.

Budget Insurance spokesman, Susan Steward says you
* SHOULD start shopping ‘smart and savvy’ in October, in preparation for your financial responsibilities in the new year.

* SHOULD NOT depend solely on Christmas bonuses as a way to pay for a holiday – many companies are cutting back, and many people don’t get the bonuses they expect.

* SHOULD save as much as 50% of whatever your bonus is, which you can either save, invest or use for anything unforeseen,” she adds.

* SHOULD NOT spend money on expensive cards and postage. Allow your children to create their own cards from recycled materials, and deliver them by hand where possible.

* SHOULD consider and investigate places off the beaten track, or away from the coast, as a festive season holiday destination. There are some great towns and even camping spots that make for wonderful destinations.

* SHOULD NOT buy everyone in the family gifts. Why not do a ‘Secret Santa’ gift exchange so that you’re giving one gift, and receiving one.

* SHOULD look out for sales, and get ahead with Christmas shopping now. You can save a lot of money by watching for specials or daily on online sites, and group buying sites.

* SHOULD save money on expensive gift bags and wrapping paper. Instead, buy brown paper, and decorate your gifts with ribbons or hand made gift tags.

* SHOULD track your spending from today, using a spreadsheet or app. Knowledge is power – you could save money now on lattes and convenience food just by being aware of how much you’re spending on them.

* SHOULD get an early start for 2017 – the last months of the year are a good time to evaluate how you spent your money, and make realistic plans for the coming year.

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