Saving for Christmas: How to make the holidays affordable

Start Planning Early 🗓️

The key to a stress-free December is thinking ahead.

• Spread large expenses over several months. Starting in September, put aside a fixed amount in a separate “holiday fund.”
• Create a December budget and use the Zero-Based Budgeting method: assign every euro you earn to a specific category (gifts, dinners, decorations). That way, there are no surprises.

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Smarter Gift-Giving 🎁

Gifts are often the biggest expense in December. By making a list of what you really want to give, you’ll avoid the temptation of last-minute extras. Many families choose to draw names or play a gift exchange game. It keeps things fun and affordable.

Tip: Black Friday at the end of November is a great time to buy gifts for less. Compare prices and set up alerts so you know you’re getting a good deal. You’ll save money and be done shopping early.

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December Saving Tips ✨

A fancy Christmas dinner or a table full of snacks on New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to break the bank.

• Plan together with family: ask everyone to bring a course instead of having one person cover everything.
• Compare supermarkets and shop smart
• Second-hand & sustainable: It’s cheaper and better for the environment.
• Check your subscriptions: maybe you’re not using your streaming services or gym this month. Pause them temporarily to save money.

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Year-End Bonus: A Well-Timed Windfall

Many employees receive a year-end bonus or 13th-month payment in December. This extra income usually arrives with your December paycheck. It’s tempting to spend it all on gifts or fancy dinners, but you could also use it more wisely. Treat the bonus as a buffer: use part of it for your December expenses and set the rest aside for January or a savings goal in the new year.

👉 Read more about calculating your year-end bonus.

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Enjoy Without Worry

The holidays are about being together, making memories, and wrapping up the year. With a plan in place, smart shopping, and mindful spending, you can truly enjoy December. Remember: money is a tool for creating great moments, not something to lose sleep over.

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📲 Want to get through December without money stress?

With the Grassfeld app, you can create a December budget in minutes, set savings goals and get real-time insight into your spending. You’ll always know where your money’s going, giving you full control over the busiest (and most expensive) month of the year.