Thanksgiving is right around the corner! We don’t know about you, but for us, that signifies the (un)official kickoff to the holiday season and we couldn’t be more excited. With all of the holiday gatherings and celebrations, it’s only natural to also think about how this will impact your finances. This year, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with five simple tips for celebrating Thanksgiving on a budget.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Shop
It’s always a good idea to be proactive and get a head start on your shopping. If there are items on your list that you can get a few weeks in advance, such as canned or frozen goods, start purchasing those items early. This will allow you to spread out the cost over a few weeks rather than having a huge bill all at once.
Check What You Already Have and Don’t Go Shopping Without a List
Take a quick inventory of what items you already have in your home and then make a list of what you still need. This will ensure that you don’t double up and the list will help you stay on track when you are at the store. This will help you cut costs so you aren’t grabbing everything off the shelves while you’re shopping just because it looks good.
Plan for a Potluck
Another great way to keep the cost down is by planning a potluck. You can either ask guests to bring a dish to contribute to or, if you’d rather cook the whole meal yourself, you can also ask guests to bring dessert or drinks. This will take some of the burdens off of you and allow you to celebrate Thanksgiving within the budget.
Use Those Points & Shop Deals
Check out the deals and rewards offered at your local supermarkets and grocery stores. Some stores will offer great rewards, such as a free turkey with your purchase. Many stores will also allow you to use loyalty points towards money off of your bill. Your credit card company might offer a reward special, points, or promotion that will help with staying on budget too.
Keep Things Simple
Keeping things simple is good on your wallet and can help you manage your stress while you cook. Keep your menu simple so that you are using everyday ingredients that you already own. A simple menu that uses tools you already own and food that’s normally in your cupboard can drastically decrease your cost.
Hosting and planning for the upcoming holidays can be stressful, but it’s always worth it. Nothing can replace the great memories you create with all of your family and friends, so don’t sweat the small stuff!
Looking for ways to finance your holiday expenses at a great low rate? We have great options, like Visa Credit Cards, Personal Loans, or a Line of Credit to help you make this holiday special. Visit our website or give us a call at 800–422–5852 to learn how we can help.
