Cut the cost of Christmas

Plan ahead to cut (and spread) the cost of the festive season

It may seem early to think about Christmas, but with the financial pressures we’re all feeling right now, it really does pay to plan ahead. With our simple saving tricks and get-organised ideas you can cut the cost the festive period, and you’ll feel so satisfied you got the best deals too!

SAVE STEADILY

You can save without even really noticing by using the rounding up feature on the free Tesco Pay+ app (see p94) – it skims offthe change from every pound you spend to use when you’re ready. Think of it as a virtual piggy bank of coins!

Build Up Loyalty Points

Don’t forget you can rack up Clubcard points on Tesco Mobile, Tesco insurance and Tesco fuel.

If you want to save the points for Christmas, join the Clubcard Christmas Savers scheme – turn the page for more details.

Take Stock

Before the Christmas lines hit stores next month, assess what you already have to save buying duplicates. You may find boxes of unused cards and wrapping paper. Consider making homemade decorations or cards – you’ll find plenty of beginner craft projects on Pinterest.

Boost Your Vouchers

Clubcard vouchers are worth up to three times their value with partners, so you could use them to buy some great gifts and save cash. For example, £10 worth of vouchers is worth £30 towards an English Heritage membership.

SEARCH SPECIAL OFFERS

Spread the cost of presentbuying by snapping up special offers when they come along. It’s also worth trimming your present list and agreeing with friends and family to buy smaller ‘Christmas tree’ presents or exchange Christmas ‘cheques’ offering to do nice things, such as cleaning or breakfast in bed.

CREATE A SECRET STASH

Buy non-perishable treats and gifts when there are special deals available and stash them away so they don’t get snaffled before you get a chance to gift them. The same applies to drink – to keep gift and entertaining costs down. Don’t freeze festive food yet though – frozen food must generally be eaten within three months, so it’s still a little early to start stocking up.

Post And Pack

Save up used boxes and bubble wrap for presents you have to post, to avoid packaging costs later. Buy books of second-class stamps early. With a cost saving of 27p over first-class, if you’re posting lots of Christmas cards, the savings will soon add up.

Have A Go At Homemade

Costing a fraction of shopbought equivalents, homemade gifts are always appreciated. Have a go at making jam or chutney – check out tesco.com/ recipes for step-by-step recipes. They make gorgeous gifts on their own or as part of a DIY food hamper.