Discover the Smart Shopper's Secret to Easily Affording Christmas Gifts Every Year!
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As the festive season approaches, with its glittering decorations and the scent of pine in the air, it's hard not to get swept up in the excitement of Christmas. But for many Australians, especially those over 60 who may be living on a fixed income, the joy of the season can be dampened by financial concerns. With the cost of living on the rise, affording Christmas presents can feel like a daunting task.
Despite the challenges, a recent survey by 9honey has shed light on how Aussies are planning to manage their gift-giving this year. The results are as varied as the ornaments on a Christmas tree, with most respondents budgeting between $300 to $800 for their festive shopping. This figure, chosen by 27% of participants, seems to be the sweet spot for many, striking a balance between generosity and financial prudence.
On the more frugal end of the spectrum, many people are tightening their belts. Twenty-five percent of those surveyed are aiming to spend between $100 and $300, while 14 per cent have set aside a modest $50 to $100. Nineteen per cent are planning to spend under $50, highlighting the reality that for some, this Christmas will be more about the thought than the price tag.
But it's not all about cutting back. Fifteen per cent of respondents are ready to splash out over $800 on gifts, with 10per cent allocating $800 to $1500 and a further 5per cent budgeting a generous $1500 to $5000. However, no one surveyed plans to exceed the $5000 mark, suggesting that even the most lavish gift-givers are setting limits.
Amidst these statistics, one savvy shopper shared a hack that has become her secret to a stress-free Christmas. By placing small orders through Temu since the beginning of the year, she has managed to wrap, tag, and stash away all her presents well in advance. This proactive approach has not only kept her organised but has also made Christmas affordable during these tough economic times. 'If I hadn't been able to do this, there wouldn't be a Christmas this year,' she confessed, highlighting the struggle many face to afford even the essentials on a pension.
While some are meticulously planning their budgets, others admit to a common pitfall: overspending. Despite setting a budget, the allure of finding the perfect gift often leads to spending more than intended, especially for parents with young children.
Interestingly, for those without young children to shop for, the focus shifts away from presents. Some respondents have chosen to forgo gift-giving altogether, instead investing in festive food and drinks to celebrate the season with loved ones.
So, what can we learn from these varied approaches to Christmas shopping? Firstly, it's clear that planning ahead can make a significant difference. Whether it's setting a budget, starting your shopping early, or finding creative ways to spread the cost throughout the year, being proactive is key.
Secondly, it's important to remember that the spirit of Christmas isn't measured by the price of the gifts we give. Handmade presents, heartfelt cards, or the gift of time spent together can be just as meaningful, if not more so, than anything bought in a store.
Lastly, for our members who are feeling the pinch this festive season, remember that there are ways to make your dollar stretch further. Look out for sales, use discount codes, and don't be afraid to shop second-hand. Many treasures can be found in op shops or online marketplaces that can bring joy without breaking the bank.
We'd love to hear from you, our Seniors Discount Club members. What are your tips for managing Christmas expenses? Have you discovered any savvy shopping hacks that have helped you afford the festive season? Share your stories and advice in the comments below, and let's help each other have a merry and financially manageable Christmas!
Despite the challenges, a recent survey by 9honey has shed light on how Aussies are planning to manage their gift-giving this year. The results are as varied as the ornaments on a Christmas tree, with most respondents budgeting between $300 to $800 for their festive shopping. This figure, chosen by 27% of participants, seems to be the sweet spot for many, striking a balance between generosity and financial prudence.
On the more frugal end of the spectrum, many people are tightening their belts. Twenty-five percent of those surveyed are aiming to spend between $100 and $300, while 14 per cent have set aside a modest $50 to $100. Nineteen per cent are planning to spend under $50, highlighting the reality that for some, this Christmas will be more about the thought than the price tag.
This year, between $300 and $800 is being budgeted for Christmas presents by Australians, with 27 per cent of survey respondents allocating this amount. Credit: Shutterstock
But it's not all about cutting back. Fifteen per cent of respondents are ready to splash out over $800 on gifts, with 10per cent allocating $800 to $1500 and a further 5per cent budgeting a generous $1500 to $5000. However, no one surveyed plans to exceed the $5000 mark, suggesting that even the most lavish gift-givers are setting limits.
Amidst these statistics, one savvy shopper shared a hack that has become her secret to a stress-free Christmas. By placing small orders through Temu since the beginning of the year, she has managed to wrap, tag, and stash away all her presents well in advance. This proactive approach has not only kept her organised but has also made Christmas affordable during these tough economic times. 'If I hadn't been able to do this, there wouldn't be a Christmas this year,' she confessed, highlighting the struggle many face to afford even the essentials on a pension.
While some are meticulously planning their budgets, others admit to a common pitfall: overspending. Despite setting a budget, the allure of finding the perfect gift often leads to spending more than intended, especially for parents with young children.
Interestingly, for those without young children to shop for, the focus shifts away from presents. Some respondents have chosen to forgo gift-giving altogether, instead investing in festive food and drinks to celebrate the season with loved ones.
So, what can we learn from these varied approaches to Christmas shopping? Firstly, it's clear that planning ahead can make a significant difference. Whether it's setting a budget, starting your shopping early, or finding creative ways to spread the cost throughout the year, being proactive is key.
Secondly, it's important to remember that the spirit of Christmas isn't measured by the price of the gifts we give. Handmade presents, heartfelt cards, or the gift of time spent together can be just as meaningful, if not more so, than anything bought in a store.
Lastly, for our members who are feeling the pinch this festive season, remember that there are ways to make your dollar stretch further. Look out for sales, use discount codes, and don't be afraid to shop second-hand. Many treasures can be found in op shops or online marketplaces that can bring joy without breaking the bank.
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