How to Save Money On Your Christmas Shopping

Buying gifts and decorations for the holiday season can be expensive. Even when you're working with a budget, it can be hard to keep expenses under control. Last-minute gifts and unplanned holiday events can quickly add up, and you can max out your credit cards or spend much more than planned without even realizing it! If you're looking for a few ways to save this year, here's how to save money on your Christmas shopping.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet connection
• Store circulars
• Rebate forms

1. Decide to spend only cash. This is one of the best ways to curtail a credit card habit and will help you set limits on how much you can spend on each trip.
2. Look for the best price online first. Many website promotions can help you track down a specific item at a deep discount. Just type in your item using a search engine and narrow down your results.
3. Make use of cash-back incentives on FatWallet.com. This is one of the web's largest shopping sites that lets you earn money for every purchase. In some cases, you can get between 8 to 10% cash back from some merchants.
4. Use Froogle.com to find the lowest price. This is a great way to start a web search on a specific item that includes eBay listings.
5. Look for weekend store specials. Many retailers offer special shopping hours over the holidays to attract shoppers; these discounts can be as high as 40 to 70% off regular prices, so plan your weekends with some strategy!
6. Use comparison shopping sites to find online deals. Sites such as Shop.com, Buy.com and even Amazon.com can help you narrow down specific items that are priced competitively on the internet.
7. Shop Friday Deals on Amazon.com. This is a great place to find last-minute deals on specialty items, and many products qualify for free shipping.
8. Don't pay for gift wrapping services. Take the time to wrap gifts yourself and avoid paying extra fees.
9. Cash in on rebates from the store. Check up on weekly rebates and special offers by visiting the store's website or reading the circulars.
10. Look for free shipping offers. Many online stores offer free shipping incentives for large orders. Buy a few gifts from one place so you don't have to pay extra shipping costs for each item.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep all receipts and ask for a gift receipt; you'll have more freedom to return or exchange items without trouble
• Shop for decorations and other holiday decor after the season for the best discounts. Most stores start discounting merchandise right after Christmas Day, and many items are 75% off by New Year's.
• Shop the sales for next year's shopping list whenever possible!
• Auction sites are usually 'buyer beware.' Make sure you are buying from a reliable seller before sending payment.

Who Can Help:

• Find Tree & Shrub Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.