Being the broke girl at Christmas isn’t much fun. Perhaps navigating this board game will save you a bit of a headache when it comes to the season of gift-giving, parties and, of course, the urge to reward yourself with a little something for making it through the year!
Being the broke girl at Christmas isn’t much fun. Perhaps navigating this board game will save you a bit of a headache when it comes to the season of gift-giving, parties and, of course, the urge to reward yourself with a little something for making it through the year!
A 2015 report from Pricewaterhouse Coopers said that shoppers above 35 were likely to spend just 11 percent of their Christmas budget on themselves. But for millennials, that goes up to 28 percent! While “self-gifting” isn’t a bad idea given it’s sale season, the key to making it through with cash to spare is not to take it too far. Let’s see where you land this festive season.
Budget
As boring as it sounds, budgeting can help to keep your spending under control. Also helpful? Planning early. You’ll avoid the anxiety of last-minute shopping, and save yourself the “I’ll just buy this cos I’m desperate” splurge.
Presents
Gifts don’t have to be expensive; after all, it’s the thought that counts. Take charge of doing Secret Santa at work, so you can set an affordable limit, like under $30. You can get some pretty good DIY gifts at Spotlight.
Cinderella Hour
Partying late sounds fun, but when you hail that cab at 3am, you’ll really feel the sting wallet-wise. Remember, it’s an extra 25 percent from 6pm to midnight, and it goes up to 50 percent after that. And there are no public transport options then. Either leave a little earlier, or crash with your friend who lives in the city. Your slightly-less hungover future self will thank you.
Buy in Bulk
If you really want to stretch your dollar (and your time!), don’t just shop for this Christmas, but for ALL THE CHRISTMASES TO COME! Some things are worth buying in bulk, like decorations or cards... even festive lingerie could work.
Mani Meltdown
Festive nails? Yes, please! But prices can get pretty cray the closer to Christmas you get. If you’re looking to deck the nails with reindeer, book early. Or DIY by sticking to Christmasy colours.
Play the “Sad Single” Card (Even if It Ain’t True)
You might be an independent and happy single lady but that doesn’t mean you’re ballin’. If need be, tell your friends you’re lonely – it might earn you a free drink or two.
Dine and Dash
The festive season usually means lots of family dinners – which means, free meals! Dine with the fam and join your friends for drinks later – it’ll earn you brownie points with grandma while saving you cash.
Going Overboard on Your S.O.
Experts say that couples who haven’t been together that long should refrain from spending too much on each other. Presents have meaning and if they’re expensive, he may read into that. If it’s not clear where the relationship is going, get him something sweet and simple instead.
Images 123RF.com Text Karen Fong.
