We get it. You want to look and feel your best over the holidays―and, more importantly, experience and spread cheer! Remember that being festive doesn't have to be tied to extravagant spending.
If you are planning to keep an eye on your budget this holiday season, you are not alone. TD Bank's 2024 Merry Money Survey revealed that more than half of respondents are scaling back their spending due to recession anxieties. Below, are nine ideas to deck the halls without breaking the bank.
- Dress to the nines without splurging
Follow the thrifting trend led by Gen Z. Not only is it an affordable option, it's also a sustainable one. Thrifting is an adventure, and finding a treasure for a bargain price is a thrill. Another great alternative to buying pricey clothes is swapping outfits with a friend for a fresh and fancy look. Still set on that new outfit you've been eyeing? Be sure to take advantage of pre-season in-store sales, online discount codes and free shipping to keep costs down. - Decorate beautifully on a budget
Creativity goes a long way on a small budget. Throwback to the days of stringing popcorn and cranberries for festive garland, brighten up the rooms in your house with energy-efficient, affordable fairy lights or candles, and wrap empty boxes to stack for a holiday backdrop. Looking to nature for inspiration and décor is also a great idea. Branches, holiday berries, evergreen clippings and pinecones are great for wreaths, centerpieces, ornaments and holiday crafts.
- Throw fun yet affordable gatherings
Re-think all-expense paid parties and make room for group gatherings that leave a smile on your face and money in your wallet. Here's a few ideas: Holiday potluck, white elephant gift exchange, holiday dance-off with a custom playlist you created, virtual party so people from all over can join the fun at no expense, caroling get-together, holiday-themed game night, group volunteer experience, bonfire with holiday music and hot cocoa, community tree lighting meet-up, sledding party or cookie exchange. - Rethink your menu
It's hard to think about the holidays without food. But dining out, buying party food and feeding guests can tip the money scale. Before the season is in high gear, consider ways to keep costs in check. Potlucks are popular and a great way to share meals―and costs. If you prefer to make the food yourself, buy in bulk, use in-season produce and buy ingredients that will work for multiple dishes. Plan a brunch instead of dinner or stick with appetizers instead of a full spread. Eat in and enjoy fun ideas like DIY pizzas and hot chocolate bars to spare the expense of going out. And if you do go out, look for early bird, happy hour and gift card specials.
- Give meaningful gifts and experiences over things
Consumerism's been around for a century and still going strong. But why not set aside things and give thoughtful gifts that don't cost money but are worth their weight in gold? The possibilities are vast, but here are a few to get you thinking: Babysitting, a handwritten note or poem, video messages, volunteer for someone's favorite cause, a book of coupons for things like a home-cooked meal or massage, an heirloom, a jar of affirmations, dog walking services, a plant you grew or homemade gifts like a knitted hat or baked cookies.
- Put an end to expensive greeting cards
Sending and receiving holiday cards is a sentimental tradition but pass on pricey foil-lined envelopes and textured stock and return to simpler times focused on the message! Hand-written notes, postcards (cheaper than cards and lower postage), a newsletter fresh from your home printer or an email greeting are all great ways to send good thoughts affordably.
- Forgo pricey wrapping paper
Wrapping paper is not cheap and there are so many alternatives that are both budget and earth friendly. Here's just a few ideas: eye-catching newspaper, music sheets, old maps, fabric (yes, put those old T-shirts to good use) and mason jars or recycled tins. For a special touch, add candy canes, photos, jingle bells, dried orange slices or sprigs of rosemary or lavender to your package. - Get creative on the travel front
Book travel well in advance for lower rates. Stay with friends. Opt for a staycation. Carpool with family and friends. Look for free holiday events wherever you're visiting. Travel overnight to save on accommodations. Use points for flights and hotels whenever you can. And pack your own snacks to save on travel food expenses. - Make new traditions without spending a cent
Extract spending; insert meaning. Rewatch a classic film the day after Thanksgiving. Have a holiday countdown with activities instead of gifts. Celebrate the solstice with a backyard fire and stargazing. Go on an annual hike. Read a holiday story together. Decorate gingerbread houses. Do a holiday-themed puzzle. Volunteer together. Write down something you're grateful for everyday in December. Plan a holiday baking day. Create a time capsule to open the following year.
Remember, your holiday season doesn't have to set you back financially to be special and fun. Focus on what really matters and be creative with your planning. You'll be surprised how festive the holidays can be without lavish spending.
For more on personal finance topics
If you have more questions about personal finance topics, visit the Learning Center on TD Bank's website. You can find more TD Bank services at TD.com.
We hope you found this helpful. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on information available as of November 2024 and is subject to change. This content is not intended to be used or acted upon with respect to any client's specific circumstances. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consider talking with your qualified professionals.