It’s the most wonderful time of the year! There’s Christmas music on the radio, Salvation Army volunteers ringing bells outside local supermarkets, and we can’t forget the delicious seasonal drinks at Starbucks. The holiday season is officially here! While the holiday may bring lots of good food and family time, it can also be challenging figuring out how one can afford gifts for all of their loved ones on a tight college student budget. The holidays come at a time when many college students don’t have a lot of money to spare, due to fall semester expenses. Unfortunately, your family and friends may not view that as an excuse for not getting them anything. After all, Christmas is the holiday of giving. Stay on top of your holiday shopping with these five tips that will prevent your gift list from outweighing your wallet:
Create a Budget
Thoroughly create a list for all of your expenses for the holiday break. This list should included travel cost, living expenses (if you’re not staying with mom and dad), and all of the people you will be purchasing gifts for. You should also include how much each gift will cost. Its natural to spend different amounts on different people. By creating a list, you eliminate the hassle of figuring out how far you’re stretching your dollar this season. Also, try to refrain from impulsive shopping and purchases for yourself. (Easier said than done, I know!)
Get Creative
If you undoubtedly have some sort of talent, you can use it as your holiday gift. You may sing, write poems, paint, draw, etc. No matter what your special talent may be, using it is a great way to show your loved ones how much they mean to you without looking like you took the easy, cheap route.
Do It Yourself Projects
DIY projects can be very fun and inexpensive. You can’t afford that cashmere sweater you know your mom has had her eye on? Make her one yourself, with matching gloves. Make your Dad a CD with all of his favorite songs. If buying everybody gifts isn’t feasible this year, don’t be afraid to grab a stationary and make handmade cards. They’re more heartfelt and personal anyway. When it comes to giving, it’s the thought that counts. Also remember that presentation is everything. If you can present your gift tastefully the recipient most likely wont care how much you paid for it. They’ll be impressed that you didn’t spend an arm and a leg, if anything.
Take Advantage of Sales and Promotions
Signing up for mailing list and email subscriptions might save you a lot money this holiday. Although your inbox may become flooded with deals and coupons, you’ll exclusively find out about the 50 percent off jean sale at H&M or the free body fragrance set with any purchase at Victoria Secret. If you don’t feel comfortable giving companies your personal email address, don’t hesitate to create one solely for shopping related news.
The Gift of Food
If you love to cook, what would be a better gift to give somebody than food? How could anybody resist homemade sugar cookies or your world famous pound cake? Even if you aren’t a chef, the internet has millions of inexpensive, easy, and delicious recipes that anybody would be happy to receive.
Happy Holidays!!!
–dara ross
