Save Money Over The Holidays

Let’s face it, the holidays can be one of the most stressful times of the year. Not only are most people busy coordinating plans with family and friends, but wallets are stretched for winter travel and presents. We here at MoneySaver.us thought we’d put-together some quick tips to help you save money over the coming month. There are essentially two different categories that we’ll look at, travel and gifts. Ready to start saving? Let’s get started!

Save Money On Holiday Travel

• Book flights and rental cars as early as possible to get the best rate
• Use discount travel websites like Expedia to get the lowest prices
• To maximize savings avoid the most popular destinations if you can
• Don’t fly – drive! You could save a fortune driving to a destination you’d normally fly to
• Use AirBnB rather than a hotel
• Find vacation house deals on Craiglist

Save Money On Holiday Gifts

• Buy gifts online at popular marketplaces like Amazon
• Take advantage of free shipping and no tax
• Looks for holiday savings and buy products that are on-sale
• Try buying personalized gifts at Personalization Mall
• Make your own gifts at home
• Use credit card reward points to buy gifts

If you just use one or two of the tips above 2011 could be the year you start saving money rather than spending it during the holidays. Last, but certainly not least is to make sure that you have a budget finalized before you spend a dime. Many people get-into financially challenging situations because they don’t budget properly. Set a firm maximum for yourself and make sure that you don’t exceed it. Don’t just spend money and wait until January to see how you did – this will almost certainly lead to disaster.

Enjoy the holiday, and love every minute you get to enjoy with friends and family. Remember it is the time together that matters not the amount of money you spent on gifts or travel. No go out there and be a good money saver – it’ll make you, and us, so proud!