Gift giving

Work out how much you can afford to spend, then decide on what to buy – rather than the other way around. Use price comparison websites to find the cheapest price for specific gifts such as toys, books and electricals; or buy good-quality second-hand from eBay, Gumtree, Depop or Facebook Marketplace.

It’s a particularly great idea for toys – and you can sell old ones to make some cash at the same time!

Home-made crafts and foodie gifts such as fudge, cookies or chutney make lovely personal presents for just pennies, while grandparents will treasure a simple framed photo of their grandchildren. Alternatively, set a budget per person and make themed hampers – for example, candles, cosy socks and bubble bath for a pampering treat.

You can add a personal touch and save money on giftwrap too by potato printing, drawing or stamping designs on brown paper (get the kids involved). Or why not use wallpaper offcuts, old maps or even fabric for wrapping instead?