Ever wanted to know how one can cut holiday spending?

[stella7]

There are a few tips people use and these may include,

1)Make a list and check it twice
2)Avoid frenzy spending
3)Don’t be your own Santa
4)Know your limits
5)Use cash
6)Plan for paying it off
7)Focus on the frugal
8)Don’t go deeper into debt
9)Avoid retail credit card offers
10)Watch out for identity theft Grinches

[aquariancore]

You forgot one, cut people from your list. Only do who you can afford.

[Calypso]

These are all excellent ideas. I would add, too, be honest with family members and friends. Unless they're independently wealthy, they're probably feeling the old holiday pinch as much as you are.

If you talk honestly to the people in your life, you may be able to reach a satisfactory solution (e.g., rather than buying expensive gifts for each other, pick a nice restaurant you both like and go dutch to celebrate the holidays). If, however, you just stop buying them presents, they may think you are mad at them.

[deanac24]

I always make it a point to do my Christmas shopping with cash. I dont use credit cards because I dont want the debt..lol. I buy for the most important people first and when the money runs out...I am done!

[gblued]

I have few more tips to add to your list!

1. Hold potluck holiday dinners so you aren´t paying for everything.

2. Make your own gifts (you can turn out really elegant gift baskets with baked goods and homemade candies such as a gingerbread house kit, a chocolate lover´s basket, etc. at a fraction of the price you would normally pay for a gift)

3. Give family gifts, like a board game or something everyone can enjoy instead of a present to each person.

4. Set a gift-giving budget with friends and family, so no one will spend more than $10 or whatever you decide to set the limit at.

5. Set aside a bit of money each month throughout the year so you aren´t suddenly swamped with debt during Christmas.

6. Plan ahead and pick up holiday items like gift wrap and ornaments right AFTER Christmas or other holidays, when they are on cheap.

Hope these help!

[moonmagick]

Those are all wonderful tips. And even if you only follow a portion of them, its sure to help cut things back a bit.