December in Nigeria is the month when everyone goes on a spending frenzy. There is Christmas shopping, New Year spending, or people just looking to dirty their December and party like there’s no January.
The festive season is a time for joy, laughter, and creating beautiful memories with loved ones but can also put a serious hole in your purse if you’re not careful. With rising prices, it can be easy to overspend. Don’t worry, though—there are simple ways to enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank. Here are 10 tips to help you spend less while still having a wonderful Christmas.
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Set a Budget
Before you start buying anything, take a moment to decide how much you can spend in total. Setting a budget will help you stay in control and avoid unnecessary expenses. Break it down into categories—gifts, food, decorations—and make sure you stick to it. This way, you’ll know exactly how much you can spend on each item and avoid any surprises later.
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Make a List and Stick to It
Having a shopping list is one of the easiest ways to save money. Write down who you need to buy gifts for and what you plan to get them. This will stop you from buying gifts for people you don’t need to and prevent impulse purchases. Also, assign a spending limit for each person on your list so you don’t overspend.
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Shop Early for Discounts
Don’t wait until the last minute to start shopping. Many shops begin their Christmas sales weeks before the holiday, so take advantage of early discounts. Whether you’re shopping online or at local markets, buying early gives you more time to look for deals and avoid the rush. Check for stores giving discounts, especially black Friday sales. Stores like Jumia have already started their Black Friday sales, so take advantage of the price slash to get what you will need for the festive.
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Buy Food in Bulk
If you’re planning a big Christmas feast, buying food in bulk can save you a lot of money. You can purchase non-perishable items like rice, flour, and canned goods at wholesale markets or in bulk stores. These items often cost less when bought in larger quantities, and you can use the leftovers for other meals.
You can also team up with family or friends for a group buy. Sharing bulk items like meat, rice, or ingredients can help everyone save money, and you’ll have plenty to go around for all those festive gatherings.
5. Embrace Homemade and Personalized Gifts
If you’re crafty or have some spare time, consider making your gifts. DIY gifts like homemade cookies, hand-painted decorations, or personalized photo frames can be more meaningful and cost a fraction of what you’d pay in stores. It’s the thought that counts, and these gifts show you put effort into making something special.
READ ALSO: How to Build Financial Security with Small Daily Habits
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Compare Prices
Don’t settle for the first price you see. Take the time to compare prices, whether you’re shopping online or in stores. Many Nigerian online platforms like Jumia, Konga, and PayPorte have sales and offers that could save you money. Also, check local markets for competitive prices before buying from larger retailers.
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Pay with Cash
When you shop with a credit or debit card, it’s easy to lose track of how much you’re spending. Paying with cash helps you stick to your budget because once your cash is gone, you’re done shopping. It’s a simple trick to avoid overspending and stay within your set limit.
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Focus on what matters
Focus on the simple things that make the holidays unique rather than worrying about organizing a lavish party. These simplest things can sometimes be the most joyful and not the never-ending list of must-haves that may make you spend more
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Travel smart
Travelling during the holiday season to reunite with families and loved ones can be one of the most expensive parts of the season, especially with the current fuel price in Nigeria. Consider traveling during off-peak times to save on expenses. This should be a general practice during fuel price hikes.
To escape the worry of spending more on transportation, try booking your trips during off-peak times. Flights, buses, and trains are often cheaper if you travel a few days before or after the busiest holiday rush.
Booking earlier, especially online, usually comes with lower prices compared to booking on the day of the journey.
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Be Creative with Decorations
Christmas decorations can be expensive, but you don’t need to buy new ones every year. Use decorations from previous years or get creative and make your own. You can create beautiful Christmas ornaments using simple materials like ribbons, paper, or beads. It’s easy to create a festive atmosphere without spending a lot.
In conclusion, remember that Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but it’s also important to be mindful of your spending. By planning ahead, making thoughtful decisions, and embracing local options, you can enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank. Happy shopping!
