Online Shopping Guides

Top 10 tips to save money this Christmas

It’s getting colder and Christmas trees and lights are slowly going up - but that doesn’t mean your bills have to go up too.

As the festive season creeps closer, excitement may not be the only thing you’re feeling.

Thinking about all the holiday spending could have you worried about money.

Well worry not, because here are 10 money saving tips to take the financial stress out of Christmas and leave you free to enjoy yourself.
 
1. This is a biggie… switch your car, home or energy provider

The average yearly energy bill for anyone on a standard variable tariff from the Big Six is now £1,135.

By switching to a fixed deal you can save an easy £300+, according to Ofgem.  
That’s a serious saving.

And it doesn’t stop there.

The average annual bill for car insurance is now £755.  Are you spending more than this?

​If so, why not give yourself an early present by switching to a provider that can offer you a better deal.

Then there’s home insurance. Consumer Intelligence found the typical annual insurance policy now costs £124.
​
Use our price comparison tool to find out which providers can put savings under your tree.
 
2. Stop waiting and start saving now
 
If you save just £20 a week from now until Christmas, you could have an extra £120 to add to the pot.

Try simple things like giving up one coffee a day and it could start to add up.

​3. Make a budget - and stick to it!
 
Set yourself a limit for Christmas spending.

​Create separate budgets for food and presents and make sure you don’t go over your maximum amount.

Why not set yourself a challenge to see if you can under-spend by 25%?

​
4. Shop online/ shop around

Never buy something in the first shop or website you see it in. Shop around and check the prices of competitors to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

And this doesn’t just go for presents, comparing the prices of everything you buy is the best and easiest way to save money. 
​
READ MORE: How to shop safely online – vital Dos and Don’ts
 
5. Do your research

The most expensive item might not always be best. Do lots of research and read online reviews before making a purchase.

You might save yourself a headache and bit of money.

​Make sure the company you’re buying from is reputable, check their user reviews on A Spokesman Said.

Or find the company you're looking for with the search bar in the top right corner of our page. 
 
6. Sell unwanted items on online

Lots of people will be looking for bargain presents so it’s the ideal time to get rid of the things you no longer want, clearing out a bit of space and making some money in the process.

​7. Take advantage of special offers

Look out for 2 for 1 offers, because stores will be looking to get rid of everything before Christmas eve.

There are lots of offers on wine and champagne this time of year so it’s worth waiting until you spot one of these.

Also, dig out all those special offer vouchers you’ve stuffed at the bottom of a handbag or a kitchen drawer.
 
8. Make the most of loyalty points

Make sure you get the most value you can from your money.

Use retailers that offer loyalty schemes and rack up some points with your Christmas spending.

That way you can save some money in 2018.
 
9. Food shop online

Do your food shopping online.

It’s much easier to stick to a budget and avoid delicious temptations placed around the store. It’s also easier to compare prices.

And don’t fall into the trap of comparing the overall prices of different items – look instead at the unit cost, as in how much per kilo or 100g, etc.

That way you can make a useful comparison.
 
10. DIY

Why not try making your own gifts, cards or wrapping paper?

There are plenty of ideas online to try out. This can also be a fun way to spend time with family and friends.
​
Also remember Christmas isn’t all about gifts, agreeing with friends to forget presents and just spend time together could help you save.