If you’ve popped by our Facebook page this month, you probably noticed that we have a contest going on – where consumers offer their best holiday money-saving tip in exchange for the chance of winning one of four (practical) shopping sprees. Called Be Money Smart This Holiday Season, the prizes range from $250 to $1,000 in value, with winners (one drawn per week until Dec. 31, 2012) picking a gift card for gas, groceries or household goods.
So far, more than 2,200 people have posted their best tips – I’ve included some below. Don’t forget to stop by our Facebook page to read more of these great tips (and to enter the contest before Dec. 31 if you haven’t done so already). Happy holidays, everyone!
Make gifts from the heart
- Make homemade gifts. Wrap your gifts in newspaper or create your own with brown paper bags and stamp them. Use twine instead of ribbon. – Tracey S.
- Instead of buying gifts for family and friends, make something homemade like a blanket or throw together a photo album or collage. – Chantelle D.
- Less is more. The important part of Christmas is to spend time with the ones you love and to let them know how important they are in your life. – Donna T.
Be a practical shopper
- Calculate how much money you have to spend, and keep within the budget. – Lois P.
- I have been shopping at thrift stores and consignment stores for my kids and nieces and nephews for Christmas and you can find some nice things in there if you look at a steal of a deal. – Kimberley K.
- Only spend what you can afford. – Liliana A.
Start early
- Wait throughout the year and shop when you see a great deal. – Christina M.
- Stock up when favourite products are on sale. – Shelly C.
- Budget some money to set aside throughout the year, monthly if possible, then stay within that budget. Watch sales and keep a list of ideas. – Sherry L.