‘Tis the season to go shopping. The holiday season is here, and everyone is heading out to find the perfect gifts for their family and friends. Whether you are shopping online or making a trip to your local mall, saving money is always a bonus. After making a list and checking it twice, finding the money to pay for all of your gifts might still be a challenge. With the right preparation and creativity, you can give out the gifts that you want to spoil your family without breaking the bank.

If you’re running short on funds for your Christmas list you can open an iCash account and follow some of these tips to help you save big on your holiday shopping.

Set a Budget

The best defense against overspending is to set a Christmas budget for yourself. It’s too easy to head out to the shops and be tempted by all the glorious gifts on display. Take your total available funds and divide it between the number of people that you have on your list. This calculation will help you set a per gift limit that is easier to stay under. 

Start Early

Starting your shopping even a few weeks before Christmas can help ease the financial burden of the last-minute rush. Choose a few names on your list each week and pick out their gifts. Splitting up your spending over a few pay periods will help you to stay on your budget.

Shop the Sales

Black Friday sales are one of the best places to get a deal on the gifts that you want for your family and friends. Over the Christmas season, many retailers will have sales that you can take advantage of. Surf the internet for online sales, clearance promotions, and end of season sales for the best prices.

Do It Yourself

There’s nothing more thoughtful and precious than taking the time to create your own handmade gifts. If you want to save some money and stretch your artistic side, you can get some great crafty gift ideas online at sites like Pinterest. Your family and friends will appreciate your effort and talent when you gift them with your homemade crafts.

Gift Exchange

Over the years, your family circle is going to expand with in-laws and children. If your shopping budget is already stretched, you can suggest that your family engages in a gift exchange. With a gift exchange, you can focus on only one or two family members and save some money.

Christmas shopping is supposed to be a joyful time of the year, but if your wallet is a bit light it can also be stressful. Saving money during the holiday season can start with these smart shopping tips. Make a budget before you head out to the store, look for retail and online sales, or flex your DIY crafting muscles and help make this holiday season one to remember.