Simple Ways to Save Money This Holiday Season
The holidays bring joy, but they can also bring financial strain with gift shopping, travel, and celebrations. Here are a few simple but effective ways to keep your spending in check and make a real impact on your bottom line:
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1. Cut Back on Coffee Shop Runs
If you’re a coffee lover who frequently stops at cafes, the costs can add up quickly, especially if you tend to grab a snack or sandwich with your latte. A typical coffee run can easily cost $10-$15, especially if you’re adding extras. Here’s a fix: invest in a coffee pot or French press and experiment with different creamers and coffee grounds from the grocery store. Not only will you save a significant amount each month, but you can also enjoy your favorite cup of coffee without the added cost.
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2. Review Recurring Charges Regularly
Take an hour or two every month or so to go through your subscriptions and recurring charges. Things like kids’ game subscriptions, old gym memberships, and random app fees can sneak up and drain your account. Keep a list of these charges, so you’re aware of what you’re paying for, and cancel anything you’re no longer using. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save by simply keeping an eye on your subscriptions.
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3. Streamline Your Streaming Services
With so many streaming options available—Hulu, Prime, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and more—it’s easy to find yourself paying for multiple services you barely use. Try sticking with just one service at a time, especially if you’re watching only one or two shows on each platform. Cancel the others for now, and consider rotating between services every few months. Alternatively, look into joining a family plan with friends or relatives; many streaming platforms allow shared accounts, helping you save without sacrificing entertainment.
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4. Analyze Your Cell Phone Bill
Cell phone bills often come with hidden charges, including accident insurance from both the phone provider and the manufacturer (such as Apple). Check your bill thoroughly and cut any duplicate or unnecessary services. Additionally, signing up for auto-billing can sometimes offer discounts of up to $15 per month. Review your plan every couple of years to ensure it’s still the best fit for your needs; you might find cheaper options that still give you all the data and coverage you need.
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5. Go Easy on Holiday Gifts
Holiday shopping can be one of the biggest budget drainers of the season, but there are creative ways to reduce costs without sacrificing holiday cheer. If you’re celebrating with a big family, consider buying gifts only for the kids under 18 and encouraging the adults to join in a White Elephant or Secret Santa exchange. White Elephant is a fun gift exchange game where participants bring one gift each and take turns choosing a wrapped gift or “stealing” someone else’s. Secret Santa involves drawing names anonymously so each person buys for only one other person. These approaches let everyone join in the fun while reducing the number of gifts you need to buy, keeping your spending more manageable.
These small steps don’t take much time, but they can save you hundreds of dollars each year. Adjustments to daily spending, subscription choices, and holiday gifting can make a big difference, leaving you with a little extra for the things that matter most this holiday season.