The people on your list are expecting something special this year, so why not give them what they want? If it’s because you’re short on money, then you’re in luck. As it turns out, there are several ways to save some cash while making sure not go over your holiday budget.

How To Do Your Holiday Shopping On A Budget

The good news is that you don’t have to make a bunch of DIY crafts just to stay under budget. You can do your holiday shopping on a budget and still pay the bills. Instead of bankrupting yourself, try one of these six smart moves.

1. Look At Your Local Store Ads

This is a great way to find out who’s selling what and for how much. It also helps you compare costs at different locations so you can get the best deal. Start looking at ads at least a month in advance to track sale prices and events.

Especially now, holiday deals will be listed almost six weeks in advance, leaving you plenty of time to plan and budget for the gifts you want to get. Make sure to check Black Friday deals, too. Even though it can be a stressful shopping experience in store, you’re bound to find some of the best deals of the year to help stay under your holiday budget.

2. Check Online For Special Savings

Holiday shopping on a budget is even easier online. Sometimes, stores will offer special discounts for shoppers who buy online. So, check a few websites before heading out to the brick-and-mortar location because you could be missing out on awesome savings and product bundles.

It may even be helpful to check the store’s online prices while you’re at their physical location, as well. Some will be offering online-only deals, but many businesses will honor those prices if you request a price match in store.

3. Clip Some Consumer Coupons

These days, you don’t even have to get out your scissors to clip coupons. Most merchants upload their discount codes online or to an app so all you have to do is scan your phone or enter a simple password at checkout.

If you’re primarily an online shopper, the Honey browser add-on is a great way to automatically check for savings every time you reach a checkout page. Every dollar counts when you’re holiday shopping on a budget!

4. Use Your Credit Cards As Personal Financing

It’s generally not wise to take out a bank loan just to fund holiday gifts. Instead, use your credit card at the cash register and boost your buying power with one swipe. If you pay the bill on time, it will even boost your credit score.

Using a credit card for all your gift purchases is also an easy way to track your expenses and make sure you’re not going over your holiday budget.

5. Check Local Charities

For those who truly have no other means, there are always local charities and non-profits that hold gift drives for families in need during the holidays. You may already qualify to be the recipient of those gifts if you just ask around and see if they can help you.

It may hurt your pride a little bit to seek this sort of assistance, but knowing you’re able to grant that joy to your loved ones despite your financial situation can be even more rewarding. There are still plenty of kind souls out there willing to help their communities. It’s okay to ask for and accept that help if you need it.

6. Get A Payday Loan

You may get paid well at work, but your money might not always arrive when you need it the most. If you’re faced with an unfortunately timed emergency expense, it could blow your whole holiday budget. Don’t miss out on a great holiday just because you’re hit with an unexpected situation. You can take care of your emergency situation with a payday loan and still have money to buy gifts.

Fast Payday Loans, Inc.

A payday loan is short-term loan that offers up to $1,000 for emergency expenses like urgent car or home repairs, overdue bills, or trips to the ER. Fast Payday Loans, Inc. of Florida can get you your money as quickly as the same day you apply.

The process is simple and quick. Just start by filling out the online inquiry form on our homepage and you’ll be contacted by a loan representative to walk you through the rest of the process. You can be approved in as little as 30 minutes and be back on your way to buying gifts for your loved ones in no time!

Get Started Now!

The holidays will come and go, but the debt you may incur this holiday season will surely stick around. Use our tips to do your holiday shopping on a budget and you can still have a happy holiday and stay in good financial standing. And if you find yourself in an emergency situation, a payday loan can help handle urgent costs without blowing your holiday budget.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.