Brits turn to ‘side hustles’ to help pay for Christmas
DOG walking, and selling old clothes and tech are among the ways people are starting a ‘side hustle’ to make money for Christmas and beyond.
A study of 2,000 adults found a third expect to have a shortfall of £239 on average this festive period.
And 13% anticipate being £500 or more short of what they need this year.
As a result, a fifth have started a ‘side hustle’ to increase their income ahead of December, while a further one in four are considering starting one up. The research, commissioned by musicmagpie (musicmagpie.co.uk), also found one in three of those who are already earning some extra money started doing so before May this year.
Personal finance expert Mrs Mummypenny (mrsmummypenny.co.uk) says: “This year has been a challenge for many financially and with one of the most expensive times of the year coming up, people may be feeling daunted about covering the cost of this year’s holiday season.
“There are so many ways you can raise some extra money these days to still have a special Christmas, and it’s interesting to see how many are already taking matters into their own hands.
“As well as things like pet sitting, DIY jobs, or selling crafts, you can sell old belongings you no longer need and have a clear out at the same time – which is a sure-fire way to make some extra cash.”
The study also found Christmas typically costs £61 to cover the expense of gifts, travel, presents, Christmas dinner and even charitable donations.
As a result, people are hoping to make around £192 from their side hustle, although a fifth are banking on earnings of £250 or more.