How to Save Money on Outdoor Christmas Decorations

People spend more money at Christmas than at any other holiday. A large chunk of that money is spent on outdoor decorations. Depending on how festive you want your home to look, it's not unheard of to spend over $1,000. There comes a time when everyone wants, or needs, to cut back and save money. Luckily, there are ways to stretch your Christmas decorating budget.

Instructions

1. Plan out the look you're going for. Each year you should think about how you want your house to look. You may want to wrap the bushes in white lights or decorate the pine tree in your front yard. Regardless of how you want to decorate, a plan will save you money. You'll know exactly what you need to buy and, best of all, your yard won't be filled with impulse purchases that looked cute in the store, but horrible on your lawn.

2. Check the decorations you already have. A quick look at the outdoor decorations you already own can save a lot of money. You may already have most of the lights you need to create the look you're going for this year. You may even decide to rethink your plan and use the decorations you already have on hand.

3. Wait for the best sales. There are a few times of the year when outdoor decorations can be found at great prices. The best time to save money is right after the holidays. You can find some outdoor decorations marked down 75 percent. Two other great times to shop include Black Friday and the week before Christmas.

4. Buy basic pieces at discount stores. There's no reason to spend $10 on a box of white lights when you can get them at your local discount store for $5. By spending less money on the basic items, you'll have more money to spend on more extravagant items.

5. Use methods to cut energy costs. People often overlook the number one way to save money on outdoor Christmas decorations. It doesn't matter how much you save on the decorations if you spend hundreds on your electricity bill. When shopping for new decorations, look for solar-powered options. Also, invest in timers that will turn your outdoor display off if you forget.

Tips & Warnings

• It's less expensive to repair outdoor decorations than to buy new ones. If you want to purchase expensive decorations, wait until after the holidays.

• When shopping at discount stores, ask if you can check that the decorations work. Also, ask about their return policy.