So Christmas is upon us again, and your holiday budget isn’t looking too jolly? From things like holiday shopping and travel to food and festivities, expenses start adding up quickly, and so does that gift list. The stress of how to save money during the holidays and how you’re going to afford it all can really dampen your holiday spirit. But don’t hang up your stocking just yet.
There are ways to save money and still have an enjoyable season. Whether you’re hosting family or traveling to see them, you can save hundreds with some smart money-saving tips. In this blog post, we’re going to give you some simple ways to save money to keep more jingle in your pocket this year so you can focus on what really matters – spending time with loved ones.
Create a Holiday Spending Plan
First, let’s start with a spending plan. The holidays can be stressful, especially if money is tight. But with some planning, you can avoid busting your budget. Here are some tips:
Make a Shopping List and Check it Twice
Sit down and list everyone you need to buy gifts for, then set a dollar amount you can spend on each person. Don’t forget smaller gifts for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, etc.
Shop Sales and Use Coupons
Look for coupon mailers and apps to save on everything from gifts to groceries. Buy generic or lesser-known brands, which often cost less. Shop sales and use price matching to get the best deals.
Cut Corners Where You Can
Instead of lavish meals, opt for potlucks with friends or keep things simple at home. Create your Christmas decorations at home and gift wrap instead of buying pricey pre-made ones.
Travel Alternatives
Skip the expensive trips and vacations. Have a movie marathon, game night, or just relax at home. If you must travel, carpool to cut costs. You can have fun without the holiday debt!
Keep Things in Perspective
Don’t get caught up in lavish spending. Focus on the real meaning of the holidays – connecting with loved ones. Spending time together is more valuable than any gift.
Get Creative With Homemade Gifts
The next tip is to get creative by making your own homemade gifts. Not only will your friends, family, and that extended family appreciate something made just for them, but you’ll be saving money in the process.
Baked Goods
There’s nothing quite like the gift of homemade food. Whip up a batch of cookies, bread, or other desserts and baked goods to give as holiday gifts. You can find many simple recipes that require only a couple inexpensive ingredients. Package the goodies in an airtight container or festive tin to make it look extra special.
DIY Crafts
If you’re feeling crafty, homemade Christmas cards, decorations, jewelry, candles and other items make wonderful handmade gifts. Gift bags of cinnamon or citrus-scented ornaments, beaded bracelets, painted planters, or picture frames are all easy and budget-friendly to make. Check sites like Pinterest for free tutorials and some holiday cheer or inspiration. Visit a local craft store like Michael’s or Joann’s, where you can often find supplies on sale, or shop online at their websites.
Host a Potluck Instead of a Big Dinner
Hosting potluck dinners or other holiday meals is a great way to cut costs while still bringing friends and family together during Christmas. Rather than shouldering the burden of a big meal yourself, set up some nice holiday lights, throw on some winter tunes, and ask guests to contribute a dish or 2 to share. Why bring all the food yourself? Let people pitch in and be creative with what they bring. Some classic, budget-friendly potluck options include:
- Chili, stews, and soups: Hearty, filling and perfect for a crowd. Ask guests to bring bread, crackers or cornbread to serve with.
- Casseroles: Cheesy potatoes, tuna noodle, enchiladas, etc. These are always a hit at potlucks.
- Rice, pasta or potato salads: A mayonnaise-based salad is a great side for a holiday meal. Cubed ham, turkey or vegetables are easy additions.
- Breads: From dinner rolls to cornbread to banana bread, homemade breads are a treat.
- Cookies, bars, or other simple sweets: Keep things easy for guests by suggesting simpler dessert options that can be made in large batches.
When setting up a potluck event, you can also plan games like secret Santa, which could also save money during the holiday season.
Receive a Free Phone For The Holidays!
We know the holidays are a difficult time for many, but hopefully some of this blog post’s tips could help. If you want to take your savings a step further, sign up for EASY Wireless’ free phone program this holiday season.
We offer FREE phones with FREE data to those who qualify for the government’s Lifeline & ACP programs — a perfect gift for yourself! Here’s what you could receive:
What Benefits Do You Get With EASY Wireless?
Upon qualifying for one of the programs above with EASY Wireless, you will receive the following benefits:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
How do I Apply For EASY Wireless Benefits?
To get started with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Or you can come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where our customer service agent will help you apply for the benefits.
Either way, the first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the household income requirement.
We accept the following U.S. Government Issued ID:
- U.S. Driver License
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Government, State or Tribal issued-ID
- U.S. Military ID cards
- Permanent Resident Cards
- Permanent Resident Alien Cards
You can show the following documents to prove that you are taking part in a government assistance program or use them as proof of active benefits:
- Statement of benefits from a qualifying Program.
- Notice letter of participation, such as an award letter
- Program participation documents, such as a screenshot from an online account.
- In order to show income, you can provide any of the following proofs:
- Unemployment Documentation
- Copy of your State or Federal income tax return.
- Three months’ worth of current pay stubs.
- Veterans Administration or SSI benefits letter.
- A divorce decree or child support document that states income.
- Retirement or pension statement.
Need More Than Just One Line of Service or an Additional Phone?
EASY Wireless is a full-service cellular store that cares about all of your communication needs. We have a wide range of pre-paid plans for every budget and usage requirement. Also, we offer a selection of brand-name phones that combine quality, reliability, and the latest technology.
That’s not all – we also provide an array of amazing accessories to enhance your mobile experience. At EASY Wireless, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring you find the perfect plan, phone, and accessories to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Visit us for all your cell phone and wireless service needs today!
