How to celebrate Christmas without breaking the bank

Tips for a budget-friendly holiday season.

Christmas is just around the corner, and let's be real—it can get pricey. But don't worry, we've got some cool ideas to keep things festive without breaking the bank. Let's dive in!

1. Budgeting Like a Boss. First things first, let's talk money. It's not just about setting a budget; it's about sticking to it. Keep track of all your holiday expenses in a spreadsheet or a budgeting app. Don't forget to include those sneaky little costs like gift wrap, postage for cards, and ingredients for holiday baking. It's all about balance—splurge where it matters and cut back where you can.

2. Gifts from the Heart. Why buy when you can DIY? Knit a scarf, bake a batch of cookies, or create a digital photo album. These gifts often hold more sentimental value than anything you could buy. Plus, it's a fantastic way to showcase your talents and put a personal spin on Christmas presents.

3. Secret Santa Fun. Got a big squad or a large family? Try a Secret Santa! Spice up the Secret Santa with fun themes or challenges. Maybe gifts must be handmade, or perhaps they should all revolve around a certain theme like ‘cozy comforts’ or ‘tech gadgets.’ It adds an extra layer of excitement and creativity to the gift exchange.

4. Deck the Halls on a Dime. Think beyond pine cones and branches. Create your own wreaths, upcycle old decorations, or have a craft day with the kids to make new ornaments. Stringing popcorn and cranberries is a classic —it’s fun, festive, and super affordable.

5. Potluck Party Time. Hosting Christmas dinner? Coordinate the menu so you get a great mix of dishes—appetizers, mains, sides, desserts. Use an online sign-up sheet to keep track of who's bringing what. This way, you avoid ending up with six pumpkin pies and no mashed potatoes!

6. Savvy Shopping. Don’t just focus on Black Friday—keep an eye out for flash sales and last-minute deals throughout the holiday season. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite stores can give you the inside scoop on sales. And remember, sometimes the best deals are found after Christmas!  If you shop early, keep an eye on prices throughout the rest of the season. Some stores will credit you the difference if something you recently bought later goes on sale.

7. Experiences Over Things. Get creative with experience gifts. How about a homemade ‘movie night’ kit complete with a DVD, popcorn, and a cozy blanket? Or plan a scavenger hunt around town that ends in a special lunch. These are the gifts that keep on giving.

8. Homemade Advent Calendars. Those store-bought advent calendars can be pricey. Why not make your own? Fill it with little treats, funny notes, or fun activity ideas. Include small challenges like ‘today, give a compliment to a stranger’ or ‘write a thank-you note to someone.’ It’s a fun way to spread holiday cheer and make each day leading up to Christmas special and meaningful.

9. Travel Smart. If you're visiting family, consider traveling on off-peak days to save on fares. Also, carpooling with relatives or friends can make the journey more fun and economical. Remember, the journey is part of the adventure!

10. What Really Matters. Create new traditions that don’t cost a thing. Volunteer as a family, go caroling in your neighborhood, or have a Christmas movie marathon in pajamas. These moments create the most cherished memories and remind us of the true spirit of Christmas.

At the end of the day, Christmas isn't about how much you spend. It's about those warm, fuzzy moments with your favorite people. Focus on making memories, starting new traditions, and just soaking in the holiday cheer.  With a bit of planning and creativity, you can have a fabulous Christmas without spending a fortune. Here’s to a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and a little extra cash in your pocket!

Oxygen can help you plan your holiday expenses.

|| Alex Rosenfeld is a business & culture reporter based in New York, NY. He was Esquire editor, and wrote for Forbes, National Geographic, Columbia Journalism Review and other leading media outlets. Alexander serves as Oxygen Communities Editor.