How to save money for the holiday season

As I drink spiced apple cider, deck my halls, and wrap gifts, I can't help thinking 'tis the season for gift-giving (and receiving, too). This can be a fun, exciting, and stressful time for many first generation and low income college students, especially if you are feeling pressured to give awesome gifts.

Photo credit: http://www.quizzle.com/

No matter what holidays you may or may not be celebrating, these tips can help you save money for the holiday season while giving those awesome gifts: 

DIY. Consider making gifts yourself on the cheap, like baking cookies, burning CDs, or writing a poem. If there is something that you are good at, use your skill to make personalized gifts.  

Plan for next year. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping for next year by hitting up the after-Christmas sales for some great deals. This is also a great option if you celebrate Kwanzaa. 

Opt out. You can always play the "poor starving college student" card and just not give any gifts. Most people will be understanding of this.

My apologies that these tips are too late for Hanukkah this year, but I'm sure these will be useful tips if you are giving anyone else gifts. You can also get more money-saving tips from our friends over at CollegesSholarships.org and their post 10 ways students can save money this Christmas.

No matter what you decide to do, make sure you stick to a budget, avoiding getting yourself into credit card debt, and have fun. Happy holiday!

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.