Christmas is around the corner and I have a load of shopping to do. It is pretty much inevitable, and I know that I will be spending hundreds of dollars, year, after year, after year. This year, I decided that I am going to make the most out of shopping and reward myself by using as many promotions, coupons, discounts and rebates as possible! Here are a few things I plan to try:

• Set a Budget and Stick to it: This is easier said than done. We make a cute little shopping list and say we are only spending a certain amount per person… Never ends up that way! Stick to your budget like glue, or better yet, stay under budget. That’s what I am going for.
• Use Cash, Not Credit: You may feel like your getting a break when you use your credit cards now, but it always comes back to haunt you later. If you don’t have the money for it, its best to get something else. If you absolutely have to use a credit card, be sure to use one with rewards!
• Discount Coupons and Codes: This one is a no-brainer. I will be on the look-out for great products with coupons. Nobody on my shopping list has given me any specific requests this year, so I can use discretion on what to get when the sales roll in! I already got a few good deals on Black Friday
• Shop Online First: Everyone knows that there are tons of deals online, and that’s exactly where I started last week. Face it, you can take advantage of deals around the world, some that may not exist in your city. Amazon always has amazing deals during the holiday season. Lots of shops also offer online only codes that can add up to deep discounts. Compare and learn before you go.
• Buy through Cash Back and Rebate Sites: Since I do most of my shopping online, I am checking on Swagbucks, Super Points and Mr. Rebates for the best stores and deals. Target is one of my favorite stores to shop at and is offered through these programs. When you buy through one of these sites, you can also use coupon codes and receive cash back or points! Double Whammy!
• Do your shopping as early as possible: Due to the economy, many stores are stocking less items this year. The closer it gets to Christmas, the selection will be much less and the fewer discounts will be available. Those little Zhu Zhu pets your daughter wanted may be sold out!
• Do a Secret Santa Gift Exchange: Have a large family? Make a family pact not to buy each and everyone a gift this year, but instead, draw names out of a hat and buy ONE gift. That way, it cuts your shopping list down and the whole family will be saving a bunch!
• Use Your Gift Cards and Store Credits: I have a bunch of gifts cards that all have balances that I have not got around to using. I am sure some of you have some, too. Apply them to your gift purchases, saving you some cash from your pocket.

Wishing you all luck! Please comment and let me know if you have any more great ideas.

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