It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also the most expensive for many. The idea of sticking to a budget through the festive season can feel like mission impossible, so we’ve rounded up some ways to spend less this holiday season to help stay in the green.
Shop second-hand
There can be a huge temptation to buy everything brand new when Christmas comes around, yet it can be the perfect time to give once-loved items a second chance at a new life. The plethora of charity shops stocked with new and barely used items across the country – especially those in cities – can uncover a whole host of preloved gifts for family and friends. Whether you’re looking for unique accessories, vintage homeware or a novel to get lost in, charity shops not only support great causes but help reduce waste and save some pennies.
Even if you’re looking for a specific item or a luxury present, you no longer need to rely on shiny department stores for your shopping. Thanks to the rise of reselling platforms, you can find pre-loved designer items on sites including Vestiaire Collective and Vinted, as well as discovering unopened items on eBay and Depop, amongst other sites.
Regift and recycle
Admit it or not, we’ve all had a gift that never made it out of the box which we’ve rewrapped and regifted. Although it might feel a bit rude at first, rather than allowing an unused gift to gather dust, Christmas can provide the perfect opportunity to pass items on to those who will appreciate them.
“Regifting shouldn’t be something we’re afraid of, it’s a great way of reducing waste and being sustainable, by giving something a second life,” says Micaela Lindsay, founder of small gifting business That Counts. “If a gift isn’t your cup of tea, you’ll surely know somebody who would love it, so why not gift it on?”.
Of course, there’s some key etiquette to keep in mind when it comes to regifting.Take care to check that you don’t return a gift to the original sender if you want to an awkward situation, and make sure that the item you’re regifting is in excellent condition before you consider passing it on to someone else. After all, regifting shouldn’t be a way to clear out your cupboards but an opportunity to give someone a gift they will truly enjoy.