If you have a large number of gifts to buy and a limited budget, you could seek out unwanted clearance items, scour the local thrift stores and regift that old blender in your closet. Unfortunately, those actions can make you look cheap – something that no gift giver wants to do.
Fortunately, there are strategies you can use to give quality gifts to the people you love without sacrificing your own financial well being. Here are 10 money-friendly tips you can use to give great gifts without busting your personal budget.
- Seek out two-for-one specials. Whether you find a buy one get one free deal or a product that comes with a bonus offer, you can get two great gifts for the price of one.
- Shop with your reward points. If your credit card offers reward points and other incentives, use those privileges to make gift giving easier and less expensive.
- Give the gift of your time. Time is the one thing no one is making more of, and sometimes an offer to babysit or a cooking lesson for a busy friend means more than even the most costly gift.
- Use up your old gift cards. If you have leftover gift cards hanging around, get them out and start shopping. You can avoid declining balances and nuisance charges while getting some great gifts for family and friends.
- Make your own gift baskets. Everyone loves a great gift basket, but ready-made gift baskets can get pretty costly. Making your own gift baskets lets you show off your creativity while saving money.
- Regift when appropriate. Passing on an unwanted present is not always tacky or cheap. If an old gift would be perfect for your chosen recipient, passing it one serves two purposes – getting it out of your closet and pleasing the new recipient.
- Shop strategically. Being a smart shopper is always a great way to save money, so look for clearance sales, going out of business sales and other sources of inexpensive but high quality gifts.
- Make your own presents. If you are the crafty type, a homemade present could be just the thing.
- Use the skills you already have. If you are an avid photographer, a professionally framed candid shot could make a great gift. Think about the skills you have and look for ways to turn them into heartfelt and original gifts.
- Stock up on appropriate gifts. If you want to save money, try shopping all year long instead of waiting till the last minute. Purchase inexpensive gift items throughout the year, then shop in your closet when birthdays and other special occasions come around.
Gift giving should be done from the heart, not just the wallet. No matter what your gift giving budget, you can give your family members and friends a pleasant memory, and a wonderful present, on their special day.