5 Money Saving Life Hacks – The Gift Edit

The tip-top folk over at Voucher Codes know I’m a thrifty lass who likes to save a bob or two, so invited me to share my top five money saving life hacks. I’m no wise owl but I have picked up the odd nugget of knowledge over the years that might help a few pockets out there. Plus I do love a good challenge!

Today I’m focusing on gift giving. Christmas, birthdays, celebrations and weddings – they just don’t stop. Don’t get me wrong, I’m partial to shindigs of all varieties but I do understand how expensive it is, especially when you have a partner and their friends and family to buy for too.

1. High Street Voucher Codes

I rarely go high street shopping, mainly because I’m a hermit and prefer to stay in Hebden Bridge (ahem). That said, it doesn’t stop me from shopping online occasionally and when I do, I’m a lean mean voucher code hunting machine and I rarely pay full price for anything. If there are no discounts available, I wait. Nine times out of ten the item will have been reduced in few weeks time and I have myself a steal. Those metallic Birkenstock sandals? Another voucher code bargain.

Tips! Follow brands on social media sites for exclusive promotions, sign up to their newsletters (you can unsubscribe at a later date) and try to focus on finding one great gift instead of one gift and a few little extras. Quality over quantity!

2. Entertain

Instead of buying gifts, invite friends and family around for food and drinks. It needn’t be expensive or a 3 course affair. Cook a vegetarian main meal to cut a few costs or, if your buddies are of the sweet persuasion, host a pudding night.

Tips! Host an apple crumble night under the stars (provide blankets!) followed by a few board games indoors. Cheap and very, very cheerful!

3. Make

This is an obvious choice, I know. But you really can save money by making your own gifts. You don’t need to be a skilled craftsmen or cook to make something unique and handmade, you just need to be organised. Yes, making something will take longer than adding a bottle of Prosecco to your shopping basket, but it will be worth it and appreciated. I’ve recently finished this little embroidered sampler for a friend who likes origami paper cranes. Just a little something that only cost me my time (whilst watching Walking Dead).

Tips! Make a batch of scones with homemade jam, a scented tea cup candle or simply frame a photograph. Pinterest is probably the best source for finding thousands of DIY gift ideas, for all abilities.

4. Good packaging

‘Tis true. Presentation counts for a lot when buying gifts. Spend a couple of pounds on a plant then dress it up with colourful tissue paper, ribbon and a personalised tag.  There is no need to spend a fortune. I love these fabric tags from Oh Squirrel stationery for adding the finished touch to an affordable or expensive gift.

Tips! Be creative. Use old magazines, newspapers or fabric to create unique wrapping paper. Check out my DIY papercraft ideas and make your own handmade cards too.

5. Gifts that keep on giving

The final life hack is for gifts you receive. When someone asks you for something, how about a present that you will benefit from throughout the year? A magazine subscription, a sewing machine, movie or music subscriptions to Netflix or Spotify or even an online course (usually quite affordable). All of these gifts will save YOU in the long run. Joy!

Do you have any money saving life hacks? Yes? Simply share those thrifty tips on Pinterest and hashtag #VCLifeHacks for a chance of winning a £50 Amazon voucher courtesy of Voucher Codes. You could put it towards that sewing machine!

Happy Friday!

P.S Tote of the week to follow this afterooney.

 ♥