The cost of holiday gifts can add up quickly.
But youdon’t have to get caught upin holiday overspending.
If giving gifts isnt in your budget this year, we’ve got some tips for making it work.
Should you skip holiday gifts this year?
But you don’t have to overspend just to c’mon the people in your life.
If money is tight, not giving gifts is a viable option.
Here are some factors to consider to help you decide if skipping gifts is for you this year.
Stress
Buying gifts can be stressful no matter what.
Consider other options if gift-giving is causing too much anxiety this year.
Waste
We often buy meaningless gifts just because we feel like we should.
But buying cheap gifts because you have less to spend can mean the items won’t last long.
This can lead to unnecessary waste.
Consider whether you’re buying gifts just to get something or making thoughtful purchases for someone you love.
Here are some ways to opt out of gift-giving guilt-free.
You don’t need to tell everyone you know – just the people you typically buy gifts for.
This is especially important for the kids in your life.
you might explain that you still want to celebrate the holidays, just in different ways this year.
You may be surprised by the reactions you get.
Don’t feel pressured to ask follow-up questions you don’t want to answer.
What if someone gives you a gift and you haven’t gotten them anything?
Everyone gets to decide for themselves what gifts they do and don’t give.
There should be no obligation to buy someone a gift just because they gave you one.
Here are some other ways to make spirits bright.
You could offer gifts of service, such as babysitting, dogsitting or helping with house projects.
You could also try your hand at creating gifts with items you already have.
Another option is to write a meaningful note to a loved one.
Choose a few holiday experiences to focus on this year.
Practice gratitude:Comparing your holiday experience with others can make opting out of gifts more difficult.
Instead, focus on things you’re grateful for this season.
Not only will you enjoy the holidays more, you’ll also spread more joy.
“I always tell people your presence is the best present,” Soledad said.
Still want to give gifts?
If you decide to cut back to $20 per person this year, you could save $150.
Now, each adult buys for one other adult, and each kid buys for one other kid.
You could also decide to only buy gifts for kids or have a white elephant exchange.
But calculate supply costs ahead of time to confirm getting crafty will actually save you money.
