Now this might come across as a bit mean and stingy but sometimes we need to be confronted with things directly to show us what we could change to help us along in the future.

So don't feel like Scrooge just because you are reading this. Just one little tip from this email might just save you a packet. And saving money is the fastest way I know to grow money unless you are already super wealthy.

10, No-Stress Holiday Budget Hacks to Save Big This Christmas

The holidays can be magical, but they can also wreak havoc on your wallet if you’re not careful. Here are ten simple budget hacks to help you save money and still enjoy every moment of the holiday season.

1. Set a Holiday Spending Limit
   Decide on the total amount you can spend on gifts, food, and festivities—and stick to it. Use cash or prepaid cards to avoid overspending. If you don't have any prepaid cards and cash is too much of a pain in the arse to carry about these days, then get a pre-paid card. (* More helpful tips about this, further down.)

2. Make a Gift List (And Check It Twice)
   List everyone you’re buying for, and limit yourself to one thoughtful gift per person. No impulse buys! Don't leave the gift buying to the last minute - I know we all do it, but it guarantees you spend more money than you need to.

3. DIY Decorations
   Create your own festive decorations by repurposing items you already have. Pinecones, paper crafts, and fairy lights go a long way! This one is easier if you have kids or grandkids who still like to get their hands dirty.

4. Shop Sales Strategically
   Start early and take advantage of Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and pre-Christmas sales. Compare prices online before purchasing. And don't fall for the sales pitch you always get about Black Friday, etc. Quite often, the prices aren't as good as you are led to believe. Make it a rule to compare at least three different retailers, maybe even more.

5. Use Cashback Apps
   Some Cashback Apps for the UK (you need to check if you are not in the UK):

   1. TopCashback

      • One of the most popular cashback platforms in the UK. Earn money back when shopping online or in-store at participating retailers.

      • Works with thousands of UK-based stores, including ASOS, Argos, and Tesco.

   2. Quidco

      • Another leading UK cashback site. Similar to TopCashback, it offers cashback when shopping online or in-store.

      • Partners with retailers like Boots, Marks & Spencer, and John Lewis.

   3. Honey 

      • Honey is primarily known for finding promo codes, but it also has a cashback feature called “Honey Gold.” Earn points for purchases at participating retailers and redeem them for gift cards.

   4. Shopmium

      • A cashback app focused on groceries. Find deals on everyday items, scan your receipt, and get cashback directly into your account.

   5. GreenJinn

      • Another grocery cashback app that works with major UK supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose. Great for saving on essentials.

   6. Airtime Rewards

      • Link your debit or credit card to earn cashback at participating retailers. The cashback can be used to reduce your mobile phone bill.

   7. CheckoutSmart

      • Focused on grocery shopping, this app offers cashback on specific items at stores like Tesco, Aldi, and Sainsbury’s. Simply upload your receipt to claim rewards.

   8. VoucherCodes

      • While primarily a discount code site, VoucherCodes offers a “Rewards” feature where you can earn cashback rewards for shopping at select retailers. Quick Tips for Using These Apps:

   • Quick Tips for Using These Apps:
     Stack your savings: Some apps (like TopCashback or Quidco) let you combine cashback with discounts or promo codes for extra savings.

     Check regularly: New deals are added frequently, so it’s worth checking the app before every shopping trip.

     Payout options: Most of these apps allow payouts via PayPal, bank transfers, or gift cards, so choose what works best for you.

6. Plan a Potluck Party
If you’re hosting, ask guests to bring a dish to share. It saves money and makes the meal more collaborative. (Also quite handy if you don't really like one of the guests but don't know how to insult them - insult the food instead!)

7. Limit Holiday Travel Costs
Book travel early or consider staying local this year. Use points or miles if you have them!

8. Regift Thoughtfully
Have something new and unused from last year? Regifting can be both eco-friendly and budget-friendly if done thoughtfully. Just remember not to give it back to the person who gave it to you in the first place!

9. Give Time Instead of Stuff
Offer experiences instead of gifts—like babysitting, a home-cooked meal, or a day of helping with chores.

10. Track Your Spending
Keep a running total of what you’ve spent to avoid nasty surprises later. You will be amazed at how few people do this fundamental thing and what an eye-opener it can be when you do.

I'm not going to put a link in here because this email is not a promotion, but one of the best money-saving cards I own is a Utility Warehouse cash-back card. This one will take money off of your UW utility bills each month.

To get one of these, you need to be a Utility Warehouse customer, even if it is with just one of their utility services (electricity, gas, home phones, broadband, home insurance, or mobile phones). And if you have all or most of their services, you will save a fortune in utility bill payments anyway.

If UW interests you and you want me to send you a link to their deals, email me to let me know. Hey, it could be my Christmas present!

Final Tip:

Remember, the holidays are about connection, not perfection. Focus on what truly matters, and you’ll enjoy the season more—without financial regret.

Here's To Being Able To Afford That Little Puppy You Always Wanted!

Awwwww...

John Duncan