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Family dynamics

28th Nov 2018

4 tips to reduce your household budget in the run up to Christmas

Melissa Carton

Backed by AIB. 

The run up to Christmas can be a costly time of the year.

Between buying gifts, travelling to visit friends and family to the Christmas dinner itself, it’s easy to find yourself feeling a little out of pocket.

There are ways though to help stave off unnecessary costs in the weeks coming up to the holidays, ways that will make managing your family’s budget a lot easier.

1. Make a list, check it twice

Santa isn’t the only one who should be making a list. Knowing what you want and sticking to it during a shopping trip can seriously cut down on your impulse buying.

2. Special offers

Sales and special offers in-store and online can save you a fortune on your monthly spending. It might be hard if you’re brand loyal but picking up the odd ‘two for the price of one’ deal can significantly reduce your shopping costs.

3. Compare prices

Particularly when it comes to gift buying, always compare prices between retailers as it may surprise you how much you could save. Sometimes the same product can be 10 or more euro cheaper in one store than another.

4. Online shopping

Buying gifts online is another great way to cut down on their cost. Online retailers will often offer much lower prices than those you find in-store, though you should always give yourself plenty of time in advance to account for delivery time.

Backed by AIB

Start saving for your child’s future today with the AIB Online Savers Account. If you’re an AIB customer then you can set it up in minutes through the Mobile Banking App or Internet Banking. Terms and conditions apply. Visit AIB for full details. Allied Irish Bank, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.