Savings Christmas savings
Is your scale going up while your bank account goes down? Time to flip the script! Try these 13 Christmas savings hacks to keep your wallet jolly—and fend off that holiday credit card hangover.
13 Christmas savings tips
Halloween trashed last year’s resolution to lose weight (curse you, fun-sized candy bars), and Thanksgiving came in hot to hammer the final nail in that coffin—with gravy. Now December rolls around, dragging in its wake a sleigh full of family, work, and social obligations. Suddenly, you’re drowning in a sea of “only ones”:
- “Only one” potluck with the neighbors.
- “Only one” work dinner.
- “Just one” $20 White Elephant gift for the office party.
Before you know it, those little “only ones” add up, and poof!—you’re left clutching an empty wallet, a pile of receipts, and a waistband screaming for mercy.
But fear not! We’ve cooked up a 13-part recipe for Christmas savings that’ll keep your wallet and sanity intact this holiday season. Because little by little, a little can become just right. Let’s sleigh those holiday expenses, one hack at a time.
1. Make a list and check it thrice
Yes, we did just watch the Golden Girls belt out a heartfelt ode to Miami, and no, we’re not ashamed. (Catchy songs about warm climates make the perfect holiday prep vibes.) But we digress…
Let’s get back on track with the painfully obvious—but undeniably essential—holiday shopping advice: create a budget. Yes, it’s as thrilling as untangling last year’s Christmas lights, but skipping this step is like going into Target without a list. You *will* end up spending triple your budget and walk out wondering how scented candles and throw blankets became stocking stuffers.
Here’s the deal:
- Set a gifting budget—and stick to it like a Christmas cookie sticks to your thighs.
- Make a list of recipients—yes, even the office Secret Santa.
- Decide what gifts you’ll give before stepping foot in a store or opening Amazon.
This trifecta is your holiday shopping GPS, guiding you away from impulse purchases and keeping you firmly in control. Without it, you’ll be five peppermint mochas deep, standing in the middle of the mall, panic-buying novelty socks for your third cousin’s roommate. Save yourself the stress—and your bank account. After all, holiday cheer is great, but financial regret is not.
2. Get something with experience
Everything old is new again—or so they say. Okay, maybe not everything (looking at you, shoulder pads), but repurposing is having its moment, especially if you’ve been bingeing HGTV. So why not take a page from their book and call it “upcycling” instead of “budget shopping”? It’s not just trendy—it’s thrifty, too.
Enter sites like Decluttr, Swap.com, eBay, and stores like Buffalo Exchange—the holy grails of secondhand treasures. They make thrifting as cool as Macklemore hoped in Thrift Shop, minus the questionable boxers and moth attacks. You can snag refurbished iPhones for as little as $178 or PlayStation 4 games for a jaw-dropping $10. And guess what? No one will ever know you didn’t pay full retail—unless you’re the type to brag about your bargains (which, honestly, we respect).
Pro tip: Pair your finds with a little creative packaging and boom—you’ve got gifts that look luxe without wrecking your budget. Because nothing says “I care about you,” like saving money and the planet at the same time. Who needs overpriced gadgets and brand-new games when you can give sustainable, stylish, and budget-friendly gifts? That’s the real holiday win, my friends.
3. Spy shop
If you’re like us and avoided Black Friday like the Black Plague, skipped Small Business Saturday out of sheer forgetfulness, and were too busy working on Cyber Monday to browse, you might feel like you’ve missed all the best deals this holiday season.
But fear not fellow procrastinators—there’s still hope! Some of the best money-saving holidays are just around the corner, so keep your credit card warm (but not overheated).
Green Monday: December 9, 2024
This lesser-known but solid shopping day happens on the second Monday of December and is the retail world’s last big push before shipping deadlines loom. Think of it as Cyber Monday’s cool, slightly underrated cousin—fewer crowds, great deals.
Last-Minute Week: December 18-24, 2024
Here’s where patience truly pays off. Retailers scrambling to clear inventory before Santa arrives might slash prices like it’s their New Year’s resolution. If Wall Street isn’t thrilled with the season’s sales numbers, expect panic-fueled markdowns that could make your holiday shopping even sweeter. It’s like playing financial chicken with the stores—hold your nerve, and you could win big.
Updated Holiday Deal Calendar for 2024
- Small Business Saturday: November 30, 2024
- Cyber Monday: December 2, 2024
- Green Monday: December 9, 2024
- Last-Minute Week: December 18-24, 2024
So, don’t despair if you missed the early sales frenzy. The best deals might still be coming to town—and with a little patience and strategy, you can shop smart without breaking the bank. Remember: good things come to those who wait (and keep an eye on their shipping deadlines).
4. Redefine Rudolph’s worst night of the year
The annual chorus of folks lamenting the commercialization of the holiday season is as predictable as a Hallmark movie plot—or, let’s be real, a Naked Santa Run. While it’s easy to roll your eyes at the noise, MJ was onto something when he crooned, and that change started “with the man in the mirror.” (Take a moment to hum that line. You know you want to.)
Here’s the truth: the best holiday memories aren’t tucked into shiny boxes with perfect bows. They’re the moments spent laughing with friends, reconnecting with family, or crying-laughing when someone spikes the eggnog just *a little* too much. These experiences truly stick—long after the latest gadget is obsolete or that sweater has gone out of style.
So, why not redefine the holidays? Make them about more meaning, less stuff:
- Less commercialism: Skip the over-the-top gift frenzy and focus on thoughtful gestures or experiences.
- Less eating: (Okay, maybe not *too* much less—it’s the holidays, after all.) But maybe fewer indulgences that come with side orders of regret and gym memberships.
- Less spending: Your wallet will thank you, and so will future you when the January credit card bill rolls in.
Instead, aim for more meaning with the people who matter most without spending every penny in your checking account—or your sanity. Host a holiday movie marathon, go caroling (or karaoke-ing), volunteer together, or swap stories over homemade hot cocoa. These things make the holidays unique—and the kind of memories you’ll cherish long after the season fades.
Because, in the end, finding joy doesn’t require maxing out your credit card or stuffing yourself silly—it’s about the people you share the season with. And if you happen to catch a Naked Santa Run along the way? Well, that’s just the gift that keeps on giving.
5. Do it with everyone and pretend you didn’t
Sure, “outlet” stores are a marketing ploy to lure people out of cities, into the suburbs, and suburbia’s tax base. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to brave the highway, strip mall parking lots, or suburban sprawl anymore to snag outlet prices. The best outlet stores—like Happy Socks, Overstock, and all your favorite name brands—are now just a click away. No gas money or road rage is required.
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are three online gems you might not know about but should check out:
ASOS
This UK-based, independent fashion mecca is like the Disneyland of online shopping—except with more sensible pricing and fewer screaming children. Boasting over 60,000 reasonably priced brands, ASOS has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for trendy staples or that bold statement piece. It’s perfect for the style-savvy shopper who doesn’t want to break the bank. Bonus: They offer free returns so you can shop fearlessly (even after two glasses of wine).
YesStyle
For the fashion-forward, Asia-based YesStyle is a treasure trove of affordable, unique clothing that’ll have your student (or you, let’s be real) standing out in the best way. With styles ranging from “K-drama lead” to “pop star off-duty,” this marketplace is a playground for anyone who wants to add a little *extra* to their wardrobe. And let’s face it—there’s always room for more extra.
GuyLook
Calling all daring, ultra-avant-garde fashionistas—or anyone brave enough to wear something that screams, “Yes, I woke up like this, and no, you can’t pull it off.” GuyLook specializes in bold, edgy menswear for those who like their style loud and proud. It walks the fine line between genius and chaos. Sometimes it hits the mark; sometimes it’s a miss—but either way, you’ll get something unforgettable.
So, skip the traffic and suburban strip malls and let these online outlet havens deliver the deals straight to your door. Who says you can’t look fabulous on a budget? Certainly not us.
6. Go plastic; it’s fantastic (Barbie Girl, anyone?)
Stereotypes exist for a reason, and let’s be honest—this one’s pretty spot-on: we love to travel. Whether it’s jet-setting to Pride festivals around the globe, sipping Aperol spritzes on a sun-soaked terrace, or curating the perfect Insta-worthy vacation wardrobe, travel is practically a second language for the gays.
So why not help your gay gift-getter take their wanderlust to the next level? Discount travel cards are the gift that keeps giving—letting your favorite gay (and maybe their gay guy) spread their holiday cheer farther and broader than ever before. It’s like Santa gave you an upgrade to the sleigh.
Here’s how to make their next adventure a little easier on the wallet:
- 17% off at BedandBreakfast.com: Because nothing says romance like a cozy B&B—preferably one with amazing lighting for those couples’ selfies.
- 13% off at Delta Airlines: Help them soar above the drama with discounted flights that take them anywhere from Fire Island to the Amalfi Coast. Plus, Delta knows their audience—they’ll definitely serve rosé in flight.
- 4% off at Marriott Hotels: Okay, 4% isn’t jaw-dropping, but every little bit helps when you’re upgrading to a suite with a balcony and pool access. (Because basic rooms? Never heard of her.)
Consider these discount cards as a VIP pass to gay travel greatness, allowing your gift-getter to save money without sacrificing fabulousness. With the extra cash they save, they can splurge on what really matters—bottomless brunches, matching travel outfits, and maybe even a spontaneous detour to that cute little boutique hotel they found on TikTok.
This holiday season, help your gay (and their gay guy) rack up memories, miles, and maybe a few tan lines. After all, the world is their runway—let’s make sure they strut down it in style.
7. Do it digitally
That magical device in your pocket isn’t just for snapping selfies or recording InstaStories that make your friends jealous—it’s also your secret weapon for smart holiday shopping. That’s right, your phone can do more than filter your face; it can filter your *budget*!
Apps like ScanLife, ShopSavvy, and ShopAdvisor turn your phone into a personal price-hunting sidekick. Here’s how it works: see the perfect gift while browsing in-store. Just whip out your phone, scan the barcode, and let these apps work magic. They’ll instantly show you how that price stacks against online retailers and other stores in your area. It’s like having a budget-conscious shopping fairy whispering in your ear.
But wait—there’s more! Some of these apps, like ShopAdvisor, take it to the next level by letting you set price alerts. Translation: you can sit back, sip your eggnog, and let your phone notify you when that perfect gift finally hits your ideal price. It’s like playing hard-to-get with your holiday shopping list.
Pro tip: Use these apps as leverage. If you find a better deal online, many stores will price-match, saving you even more time and cash. So, not only are you saving money, but you’re also outsmarting the retail system—and isn’t that the natural gift of the season?
With these apps in your arsenal, you’ll shop smarter, not more complex, and keep your wallet intact for the real holiday essentials—like that extra bottle of bubbly for New Year’s. Cheers to tech-savvy shopping, and may your deals be as fabulous as your InstaStories.
8. Play in the box
Some of the best gifts aren’t the ones that dazzle for a day—they’re the ones that keep on giving, month after fabulous month. Why settle for a “Wow, thanks!” moment when you can get 12 months of “Oh my God, you’re amazing!” instead? That’s right—remind the man (or men, we don’t judge) in your life just how much you care by showing up on their doorstep every month. Well, maybe not you personally (boundaries, darling), but the next best thing: subscription gifts.
Imagine this: every month, your lucky recipient gets a little surprise curated by you, delivered straight to their door. It’s like a love letter—but wrapped in a box. From gourmet coffee subscriptions to chic underwear-of-the-month clubs, there’s something for every type of man on your list:
- For the foodie: A craft hot sauce or artisanal cheese subscription that’ll keep their taste buds as spicy as your love life.
For the style-conscious gent: A sock or tie subscription that says, “I care about your ankles and your neck.”
For the fitness buff: Monthly protein snacks or gear to remind them how swole they’re getting (with your undying support).
For the bookworm: A monthly book club box, because nothing says “I care” like intellectual stimulation.
These gifts aren’t just thoughtful—they’re genius. You’re basically outsourcing your emotional labor while looking like the most attentive partner, friend, or sibling ever. Each month, when that subscription box lands on their doorstep, it’s a little “I see you, I appreciate you, and yes, I’m amazing at gift-giving” reminder.
So go ahead, gift smarter, not harder. Because a gift that keeps on giving means *you* get to bask in gratitude all year long—and isn’t that what the holidays are really about?
9. Skip the clip
Gone are the days of meticulously clipping coupons from the Sunday paper (and forgetting them at home). Your hands, your sanity, and the Earth all thank you for moving on. Welcome to the future of savings, where discounts practically find *you*—no scissors required.
As proud sponsors of the Queer Money® podcast, we know how important it is to stretch your dollar, especially during the holidays. That’s why we’re all about tools like Capital One Shopping, a genius way to snag discounts on gifts you’re buying. It’s effortless, free, and lets you shop smarter without sacrificing style.
Get Rebate Ready
For instant rebates and discounts on things you already buy, download Ibotta. Just snap pics of your receipts from your favorite stores, restaurants, grocers, or even movie theaters, and voilà—instant savings. Use those rebates to fund holiday gifts, or treat yourself to a little something (you’ve been good this year, right?).
Coupon Queens, Meet RetailMeNot and SlickDeals
Why pay full price when you can let apps like RetailMeNot or SlickDeals do the heavy lifting? Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, these apps dig up discounts and coupons faster than Santa down a chimney. Save on gifts—or your everyday essentials—and funnel those savings toward your holiday budget. It’s like Black Friday, but on your terms.
Honey: Sweet Savings for Your Browser
Shopping online? Let Honey, Chrome’s friendly little savings sidekick, do the work for you. It automatically applies discounts, finds free shipping deals, and helps you score holiday promotions without lifting a finger. It’s like having a savvy, budget-conscious elf working behind the scenes.
With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll crush your holiday shopping while keeping your budget intact—and maybe even save enough for a post-holiday splurge (or therapy, depending on how the family gatherings go). Because nothing says *‘tis the season* like scoring deals and looking fabulous doing it.
10. Let’s get physical
Why not channel your inner Turkey Trot and keep the festive momentum going with a Reindeer Run? Or ditch the antlers and opt for any fun physical activity with your friends and family—biking, hiking, or even a leisurely walk where the only competition is who can avoid stepping in holiday dog “gifts.” Grab your besties and strike a tree pose together at yoga if you prefer to keep it low-impact and centered. Namaste, holidays!
Looking to get into the true spirit of the season? Volunteer at a food shelter and serve up more than just canned green beans—serve some smiles and connection. Or embrace your best Secret Santa vibes by leaving homemade cookies at your neighbor’s door. (And hey, if one or two cookies don’t make it out of your kitchen because they found their way into your belly instead, we won’t tell. Quality control is essential.)
For something extra meaningful, consider spreading cheer at your local retirement community. Many older folks grew up in a less accepting era, often facing rejection from their families during the holidays—and, frankly, most other times of the year, too. A visit from you could make their holiday season feel like a miracle, even if all you do is share stories, play a few rounds of cards, or bring them that infamous holiday punch you claim is “award-winning.”
Who knows? Your small gesture might be the best gift they’ve received in years—and it costs less than those overpriced holiday candles no one asked for. So, lace up your sneakers, roll out the yoga mat, or whip up that cookie dough. This holiday season, you’re serving up joy *and* making memories worth more than anything you can buy.
11. Christmas savings hack o’ yore
It may not have the sleek allure of a Silicon Valley app dreamed up by a hoodie-wearing wunderkind. Still, this tip is pure gold—or, more appropriately, crimson and gold, because retailers know your email address is the modern-day Holy Grail of marketing.
Here’s the play: visit the websites of your favorite stores—think Macy’s, Target, Nordstrom, and H&M—and sign up for their email lists. Yes, you’ll have to sacrifice a little inbox real estate but trust me, it’s worth it. Retailers love their email subscribers and aren’t shy about showering them with perks: exclusive coupons, flashy discounts, special promotions, and even free shipping. It’s like being part of a secret club, except you get 25% off instead of secret handshakes.
Pro tip: If you’re worried about drowning in emails like “Our Semi-Annual Sale is Semi-Out-of-Control!” create a separate email address just for these deals. That way, your primary inbox stays tidy, and you can still access all the bargains without accidentally missing an email from your boss titled “URGENT.”
These retailers go into overdrive during the holidays, so you’re guaranteed to score significant savings. Think of it as Santa dropping gifts straight into your inbox—minus the soot. Sure, it’s not as fancy as an app that calculates your budget or finds your soulmate, but when you score 50% off that perfect holiday sweater, do you really care?
12. Elf on the Shelf shop
Let me tell you a little secret we call Elf-on-the-Shelf Shopping. It’s a sneaky, savvy move that has online retailers wringing their hands like they’re stuck listening to “The 12 Days of Christmas” on repeat. Here’s how it works: you place an item in your online shopping cart… and then you don’t buy it. Yep, just let it sit there, tempting you.
Why? Because for specific stores and items, retailers hate seeing “abandoned” shopping carts—it’s like spotting someone ghosting them at the register. They want that sale badly. So, instead of letting you walk away, many will send you follow-up emails with sweet deals to coax you back. You might get a discount code, a free shipping offer, or even a “we miss you” note that feels suspiciously like an ex sliding into your DMs.
Even better? Some retailers will ping you if the price of your would-be purchase drops. So, by doing literally nothing, you could save yourself some cash and enjoy the smug satisfaction of winning the online shopping game.
Pro tip: Make sure you’re logged into your account so the store knows it’s you leaving that virtual cart stranded. (No login, no guilt-trip emails.) And if you’re worried about missing those discount notifications, set up a separate email address for all your shopping escapades—you’ll look like a pro and keep your inbox clean.
Elf-on-the-shelf shopping is the holiday hack you didn’t know you needed. It’s low effort, high reward, and the perfect way to channel your inner Scrooge while still snagging the goods. So fill that cart and walk away—you’ve got savings to wait for.
13. Just say “No”
The best way to say “yes” to yourself is to say “no confidently.”
Let’s face it—one of the reasons this time of year can feel like a snow globe of stress is that we’re often caught between who we truly are or want to be and who we feel obligated to be during the holidays. It’s exhausting. Forced cheer, packed schedules, and financial overcommitment can leave us as inauthentic as Madonna’s infamous British accent. (We love her, but come on.)
Here’s the deal: you don’t have to RSVP “yes” to every Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthday, or kindergarten graduation party (seriously, do we need gift bags for learning the alphabet?). Saying “no” isn’t selfish—it’s self-preservation. You can’t celebrate everyone’s everything and still leave room to celebrate yourself.
By embracing the power of “no,” you’re not just setting boundaries—you’re paving the way to become the best, happiest, most debt-free version of yourself. And let’s be real: no one will notice your absence at your second cousin’s dog’s holiday sweater party.
With these 13 Christmas savings hacks, you’ll glide through the season more gracefully than Nancy Kerrigan at the 1994 U.S. Figure Skating Championships (minus the drama). So here’s to a stress-free, debt-free holiday prioritizing you. Skate into the season with confidence, cash, and a little extra cheer.
More ways to save this holiday season:
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