Thrifty Thursday: Save Money on Christmas Gifts and Holiday Spending

Yes, I know it's October, so maybe I'm jumping the gun on Christmas gift shopping. But I have seen holiday savings advertisements and items in the store already - so probably not. I do start Christmas shopping early, it saves me money which makes my holiday that much brighter. Hence, my first tip on saving money for holiday spending is: Start now! Here are the rest of my money saving tips:

• Give your teen a spending budget and ask them to make a list. Be clear about when you expect the list back and that you will do the choosing if you are shopping without their list.
• Shopping for Christmas gifts early will give you the opportunity to take advantage of the sales, keep you from impulse buying and help you maintain your budget.
• Purchase items your teen will need this winter for gifts. Socks and underwear fill the bottom of a stocking, as do funky t-shirts for under sweaters or gym class.
• Does your teen need to purchase Christmas gifts this year and their out of a job? By starting this early you can make a list of chores that you need done around the house so they can earn the money they need to shop without killing your budget.
• If you are looking of a particular item as a Christmas gift, take advantage of your local store's sales for holiday shopping. Start looking at the fliers and call the service desks to see if the item you are looking for will be going on sale soon.

Follow the About.com Parenting & Family's Thrifty Thursday:

• Saving Money on Pregnancy Books
• Two Free Kids' Meals at Boston Market
• 100 Toys for $10 at Walmart
• Spend Less Money on Halloween Candy This Year
• Find Shipping That's Free, or Nearly Free

Quick Links: Over 100 Saving Money Tips | Quiz: Is your teen money smart?

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