Who else is excited for the magic of holidays this year? The holidays are a time of year that many of us look forward to, but sometimes spending can get out of control fast! With the drive-through light shows, decadent holiday drinks, and the expectation to buy gifts for friends and family, there is a lot to manage! If you’re looking for ways to save, here are 7 money tips for the holiday season to keep in your back pocket.

1. Set a Budget and Commit

Budgets had to be at the top of the list! The easiest way to overspend is to not set a budget at all. Take some time to evaluate your finances, establish a budget and track your spending along the way!
Boost tip: you can even take out cash to help you stay on track.

2. Plan Ahead!

Plan ahead! Make a list of all of the people you need to buy gifts for along with at least two different options in case you need flexibility. Research sales, shop early, and consider splitting up your spending to align with different paycheck cycles. Turn up our Money Boost Playlist on Spotify and get to planning!

3. Get Creative!

We know our SUPERCHARGED community is full of creatives! Use your skillset to your advantage by DIYing gifts this year. Some of our most fun ideas include baking sweet treats, potting plants, putting up ornaments, coasters, or even making mason jar cocktails. If you’re handy, you can even offer services to a loved one, like mowing the lawn for a year, fixing an item in their house, babysitting, cleaning, etc. Lean into what type of DIYing you’re into and pull out personal touches for each gift recipient.
Boost tip: DIY gifts are also perfect for coworkers and friends.

4. Make it Personal!

A meaningful gift is much more memorable than an expensive one! Pull on those emotional heartstrings with a sentimental gift: frame a favorite memory, order handmade memorabilia on Etsy to go along with their favorite movie, or even write them a note and put together a basket of their favorite feel-good things—candy, beverages, their favorite candle scent, perhaps even a gift card to their favorite local shop or restaurant.

5. Opt for Secret Santa

If you’re tight on money this year, likely others in your family will be too. Ask if your family would be up for playing Secret Santa in lieu of purchasing gifts for every individual. If you’re not familiar, Secret Santa is where you toss all of the names of the people who will come to your family gathering in a hat, and each person pulls a name. The name you draw is the person’s gift you are responsible for! This is a great solution during the pandemic because you can drop gifts off, ship them, and even open them on Zoom! Boost tip: Secret Santa is also perfect for friend gatherings too!

6. Shop online

Shopping online can have a lot of benefits, including access to coupon codes, exclusive sales, and more stock. If you’re looking for coupon codes, try apps like Honey that will automatically search for discounts before you check-out. We also encourage you to check those email newsletters from brands you love yet never open to find hidden discounts!

7. Give back

With the hustle and bustle of holidays, it can be easy to get stressed. It’s important to remember that this time of year is also about giving. Team-up with your Boost Friends or co-workers to bond and give back to the community. Use some of the tips above for ways you can give back. Consider volunteering your time (this can even be done remotely!), providing gifts for less fortunate kids, or even spending quality time with mentees. If you’re looking for like-minded people like yourself to focus on ways you can give back, apply for the SUPERCHARGED Boost Friends Community where you can find a mentor and a friend all-in-one. Learn more at boostfriend.com.

We hope you have some creative ideas in your pocket with these smart money tips for the holiday season. Until next time, Boost Friends!