The holiday season can bring plenty of cheer, from connecting with loved ones to enjoying festive traditions. It’s also a time when overspending can creep up on us – and it starts a month early with Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. If you’re already feeling a bit of buyers remorse from those “last chance” offers, you’re not alone.
Side note: if you have access to Netflix, we encourage you to watch ‘Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy’ so you can see the science behind the sales!
If you’re entering the holiday season with a dent in your wallet already, we have a few tips to help you keep your spending in check and focus on what truly matters this holiday season: connection and making memories (which, by the way, can be totally free).
Hit the ‘Pause’ button
Those limited-time offers and flashing countdown timers can make us do crazy things! Before you give in to that deal on the kitchen gadget you’ve never realised you needed, take a moment to pause. Add it to your cart, but wait 24 hours before hitting “buy.” If you still want it tomorrow, go for it! But chances are, you might have already moved on.
Compare, Contrast, and Consider
Deals can sometimes be smoke and mirrors. That “75% off” might look great, but if you don’t really need the item, it’s still wasted money. Instead, invest a little extra time comparing prices at different retailers. Your mobile phone or desktop is a great way to compare without leaving the house!
Put Your Woolworths Everyday Rewards to Work
Your Everyday Rewards card can be a holiday game-changer. Each time you swipe it for groceries, gifts, or household essentials, you’re adding to a quiet little festive fund. Take a moment to check your app to see how many points you’ve racked up and where possible, use it to save your hard earned cash.
Focus on Meaningful Gifting
It’s easy to get caught up in the “bigger is better” trap during the holidays. But sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the ones that come from the heart. Ask your loved ones what they truly want – maybe it’s a homemade meal, a handwritten letter, or quality time together. Focus on thoughtfulness over price tags, and you’ll create lasting memories (and save some money in the process!)
Plan for Next Year – Now
Break the cycle of holiday spending stress! Consider opening a Christmas Club Account and stashing away a little bit each month. Or, if you have some savings you don’t want to touch, explore a Term Deposit to lock in your holiday funds for next year. That way, you’ll have a dedicated stash for gifts and gatherings without dipping into your everyday budget. Check out our Savings options and Term Deposits to find the perfect fit.
You work hard for your money, so enjoy the holidays on your terms! By being mindful and planning ahead, you can focus on the things that truly matter: connection, joy, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Happy Holidays!
