I’m Frugal. Here’s 11 Things I Always Buy During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, often, overspending. But being frugal means mastering the art of saving while still spreading cheer. Here are 11 things that savvy shoppers always buy during the holidays to keep their wallets happy and their spirits bright!

Gift Wrap Alternatives

Frugal folks know that traditional gift wrap can be pricey and wasteful. Instead, they get creative with alternatives like brown paper bags, old newspapers, or even fabric scraps.

Not only are these options budget-friendly, but they also add a personal touch to gifts. Plus, you can decorate them with stamps or drawings for that extra flair. Who needs expensive wrapping paper when you can turn something ordinary into a unique masterpiece?

DIY Gift Ingredients

Why spend a fortune on store-bought gifts when you can whip up something special at home? Frugal shoppers stock up on ingredients for homemade goodies like cookies, jams, or bath salts. Not only are these gifts thoughtful, but they also save money.

Plus, you can customize them to suit the recipient’s tastes. A little creativity goes a long way, and the joy of giving something made with love is priceless!

Discounted Decorations

After the holidays, many stores slash prices on decorations. Frugal people take advantage of this by stocking up for next year. Think lights, ornaments, and festive tableware—all at a fraction of the price. It’s a win-win: you’ll be prepared for the next holiday season and save a ton of cash. Plus, you can find unique items that may not be available when the holidays roll around again.

Bulk Baking Supplies

Baking is a holiday tradition, and frugal people know to stock up on supplies in bulk. Flour, sugar, and chocolate chips are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities.

This way, you can whip up batches of cookies or cakes without breaking the bank. Plus, having extra on hand means you can bake for unexpected guests or bake up last-minute gifts. It’s all about planning ahead to maximizing savings!

Secondhand Gifts

Thrifting is a frugal holiday hack that never goes out of style. Frugal shoppers often browse secondhand stores for unique gifts that tell a story. Vintage finds, books, or even gently used toys can make fantastic presents. Not only do you save money, but you also reduce waste by giving items a second life. It’s a thoughtful way to show you care without splurging.

Experience Gifts

Instead of material items, frugal folks often opt for experience gifts. Think tickets to a concert, a cooking class, or a day out together. These gifts create lasting memories without the hefty price tag of physical items. Plus, they often come with the added bonus of spending quality time with loved ones. It’s a win-win for both the giver and the receiver!

Subscription Services

Frugal individuals often look for deals on subscription services as holiday gifts. Whether it’s a streaming service, audiobook subscription, or a meal kit delivery, these gifts offer ongoing enjoyment and value. Many subscription services provide promotional rates or discounts for the first few months, making them budget-friendly options.

Gifting a subscription allows recipients to explore new content, try different cuisines, or enjoy entertainment throughout the year. This thoughtful approach to gift-giving focuses on experiences rather than physical items, providing lasting enjoyment while keeping costs manageable during the holiday season.

Bulk Holiday Cards

Buying holiday cards in bulk is a smart move for people looking to spread cheer without overspending. Many stores offer discounts on packs of cards, making it easy to find beautiful designs at a fraction of the cost. Sending out cards is a lovely way to connect with friends and family during the holidays, and bulk purchases ensure that everyone on the list receives one.

Frugal shoppers can also personalize these cards with handwritten notes, adding a heartfelt touch. This approach allows them to maintain holiday traditions while keeping expenses low and fostering connections with loved ones.

Discounted Gift Cards

Frugal shoppers often take advantage of discounted gift cards during the holiday season. Many retailers offer promotions or sales on gift cards, allowing people to purchase them for less than their face value. This strategy enables individuals to give gifts that recipients will appreciate while saving money in the process.

Gift cards offer flexibility, letting recipients choose what they truly want or need. Additionally, buying gift cards during sales can also be a great way to support local businesses!

Reusable Gift Bags

Instead of single-use wrapping paper, frugal buyers invest in reusable gift bags. They come in various sizes and styles, making them a versatile option for any gift. Plus, they can be used year after year, reducing waste and saving money in the long run. It’s a simple switch that makes a big difference for both your wallet and the environment.

Clearance Items

After the holidays, frugal shoppers hit the clearance racks to save on items they were already planning to purchase. Prices get slashes drastically right after Christmas so using this opportunity to save a bunch of the regular price is just smart shopping…it’s all about being resourceful and making the most of your budget!

The Best Way to Control Your Holiday Spending

Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to enjoy the holidays this year instead of it being a 3-month long stress-fest? Wouldn’t it be nice to start the new year off with hope and excitement rather than fear and regret? I know exactly how that feels, and I know this year will be different for us, and it can be different for you, too…check out these nine tips for creating a holiday budget you can stick to. The Best Way to Control Your Holiday Spending

Stick to Your Holiday Budget With This Free Holiday Budget Planner

Do you feel the holiday season brings you more stress than joy? Do you dread the Christmas shopping season because you always end up having to put all your gifts and expenses on a credit card? If reading this gives you cold sweats just thinking about it then you need a holiday budget planner. Stick to Your Holiday Budget With This Free Holiday Budget Planner