With the stress of finals and the very end of the semester coming up, the last thing that some students want to be thinking about is gifts for family and friends, especially for the poor, starving college student. However, there are money saving tips to help even the poorest, most starving student give thoughtful gifts this holiday season.
1. Set a budget and make a list.
Sometimes, shoppers feel the pressure to overspend during the holidays. By setting a budget, there is complete control over how much they spend. Look for stores that offer affordable gift packages that are big on value, but low on price. Also, making a list of everyone to purchase gifts for with a set budget per person helps keep focus on how much is being spent, so students won't have to worry about begging freshman to guest into the Caf because they have no money for lunch or dinner.
2. Spread out spending.
The first weeks of holiday shopping can sometimes be filled with some of the best deals. However, it's just a way to get shoppers in the door overspend. By spreading out one's spending, one won't feel overwhelmed with the amount of money they just spent. Some of the best deals, especially in retail, can be found closer to an actual holiday because they need shoppers to get inventory out of the store.
3. Get crafty.
Making gifts is an inexpensive way to save money and create personal gifts from the heart. Making gifts can also be a way to distress from finals. Homemade gifts can be a simple way to show appreciation.
4. Channel the Martha Stewart within.
Baking cookies and other goodies can be a simple way to spread some holiday cheer without breaking the bank. There are recipes on stumpleupon.com and pinterest.com to help students find hundreds of treat ideas.
5. Shop at discount stores. Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, Marshalls and Tuesday Morning sell discount designer items at a more reasonable price. These stores have inexpensive gifts for a fashionista friend, the dad who says he doesn't need anything this year and even the family pet.
6. Use technology.
One of the newest websites out there to help shoppers with all their shopping needs is shoplocal.com, which compares prices of items at the local store they're visiting and comparing it to retail stores. Check to see if the store has a policy of matching a competitor's price. Follow stores' Facebook and Twitter pages for special discount offers and coupons.
7. Use coupons.
Don't let the moms on TLC's Extreme Couponing scare you; there are some worthwhile savings that you don't want to miss out on. Websites like coupon.com, smartsource.com and couponmom.com are tools to help find the best deal and save during the holidays. Check the local papers as well for additional savings. When it comes to gifts, You never want to miss an opportunity for anything free, especially when it comes to gifts.
8. Gift Cards.
Gift cards are easy gifts for all friends and family to ensure they get exactly what they want this year. Giving gift cards insures that the shopper won't overspend as well, because there is a set price. When in doubt, give a gift card.
9. Be a Secret Santa.
If someone has a bunch of close friends and can't afford to buy gifts for everyone, suggest having a Secret Santa party. A budget can be set, ranging from $5-20; this way, everyone is on the same page about what the budget is. Then, a party can be hosted for everyone to exchange gifts, cookies and ornaments, as well as celebrate the end of the semester.
10. Don't forget about yourself.
Throughout the hustle and bustle of the holidays, shopping students shouldn't forget to treat themselves. One doesn't have to splurge on something expensive; it can be treat themself to a great lunch, maybe their favorite Starbucks beverage or candy, or that new cd they've been dying to get. It's important for the shopper to take care of themselves, as well as everybody on their holiday list. Nobody wants to lose all of his or her holiday spirit before the actual day arrives.
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