Santa’s savings

Get the most for your money during the most expensive time of year

Christmas is a time for giving and, err… paying! Whether you’re splashing out on gifts for your grandchildren or buying festive food and drink, it’s easy for money to slip through your fingers. But there are some savvy ways you can spend less and make your cash go further.

Make use of sales

Shops have regular sales in the run-up to Christmas. Black Friday (November 23) is probably the biggest, but while there are some bargains, retailers often sneak in old stock, so do your research! If you don’t need to buy before Christmas, some of the best discounts appear from Christmas Eve onwards.

Get cashback

If you shop online, use cashback sites such as Quidco and Topcashback to earn cash when you shop. You must go to the retailer’s website by clicking a link from the cashback site. Some cashback sites are better than others when it comes to how quickly they pay you.

Watch out for festive scams

Christmas is a lucrative time for scammers. They know we’re under pressure and are more likely to shop on unfamiliar websites. You should never be asked to pay by bank transfer (where you pay direct through online, mobile or phone banking). Pay by debit card or use your credit card instead – especially if buying something worth more than £100 – because you may be able to claim against the card company if there’s a problem.

Don’t buy add-ons

If you’re buying something such as a new TV, washing machine or sofa, don’t be tempted by the shop’s insurance or warranty offer – they’re often a waste of money. Check if the manufacturer offers its own extended warranty, which can work out cheaper.