December is just around the corner. For many, this is the most expensive month of the year, with parties, gifts, and possibly even travel. How can you save smartly to keep December financially manageable?
December is an expensive month, but it's also a time for celebration and family. That's why it's important to save smartly, without having to sacrifice too much. Here are five tips to help you.
To avoid a financial hangover after the holidays, it's wise to first create a budget. Calculate your expected income and fixed expenses for December. Add to that your average monthly grocery spend. Subtract these expenses from your income, and you'll know how much you'll have left for the holidays. Then, also determine how much you want to spend per person on gifts and meals.
Now that you know how much you want to spend on gifts per person, you can start searching right away. By starting early, you'll have more time to compare prices and avoid expensive last-minute purchases. Plus, you can take advantage of Black Friday discounts and Cyber Monday.
You can also save on your energy costs in the coming weeks. Turn off all standby appliances. Only heat the rooms you're in, place reflectors behind radiators, lower the thermostat by one degree, and set the heating to night mode an hour before bed.
This is also a good time to review your fixed costs. See if you can save on your telecom subscriptions and insurance. Keep in mind, however, that you may have to observe a notice period.
Planning a trip this holiday season and haven't booked anything yet? Wait for last-minute deals. Or consider a nearly free stay through TrustedHousesitters, where you look after a house and pets while the owners are away.
Some savings are one-time, but others, such as savings on your fixed costs, yield monthly returns. You can make the money you save work for you by investing it investing.