Hidden Holiday Costs

You already know about the gifts and decorations. Here are some holiday expenses you may have not included in your budget this year, along with creative ways to beat them.

Wrapping paper

It all ends up in the garbage, but did you know that wrapping paper for your gifts can cost close to $100?

Save Big! By purchasing next year’s wrapping paper in January. It won’t go bad and you’ll be ahead of your holiday expenses almost a full year in advance!

Electricity

All those twinkling lights can cost a pretty penny – or more than an extra $50 on your electric bill.

Save Big! By switching your lights to LEDs. Also, consider leaving you rlights on for only a few hours a night, such as during the early evening hours.

Last-minute gifts

Who has time to shop for bargains when it’s two days to Christmas and you’ve only just remembered your boss’s kids?

Save Big! By skipping non-essential gifts. Also, consider homemade gifts or re-gifting presents you’ve never used.

Eating Out

Last-minute holiday got you too busy to cook? You might be spending more than you realized on takeout food this month.

Save Big! By cooking and freezing a few meals ahead of time for those crazy, hectic, pre-holiday evenings. If you can’t hack it without buying dinner a few times this month, consider purchasing an entree only and then adding your own sides, salads and beverages at home.

What tips could you add for saving?