How to save on Christmas shopping without sacrificing enjoyment

Purchase in advance

One of the best strategies is to get ahead of the game. During the weeks leading up to the holidays, products such as meats, fish, seafood or even certain sausages tend to raise their prices due to last-minute demand (and the opportunism of certain retailers). If you buy in advance and freeze them properly, you can save a considerable amount.

Meats such as lamb or tenderloins, fish such as hake or sea bass, and seafood such as lobsters or scallops, can be frozen without losing quality or flavor, as long as you follow the correct instructions.

Also, take advantage of non-perishable products such as wines and liqueurs. Not only do they have a long expiration date, but you can also take advantage of previous promotions to buy in quantity without fear of spoilage.

Check and compare prices

During the holidays, deals and promotions are the order of the day, but not all of them are as attractive as they seem. Take some time to check catalogs, use apps to compare prices and evaluate if you are really getting the best price for what you buy. Department stores often launch discounts and "special offers" on products such as smoked salmon or panettones, but they don't always represent a real discount. Comparing will allow you to identify where you will really save.

Consider private labels

Not everything has to be branded. Many times we pay a high price for the "name". Certain private label products often offer similar quality to the big brands, but at a much more affordable price. If there is one area where private labels often offer excellent value for money, it is in Christmas staples. As long as you check the labels and make sure the product meets your expectations, opting for these alternatives can mean considerable savings.

Control rations

One of the biggest splurges at holiday celebrations is overeating. It is not uncommon to end up with tons of food that, in the end, end up in the trash. Properly planning quantities for each diner is essential to avoid waste and make the budget go much further.

Buy local and seasonal

Winter offers a rich variety of local fruits and vegetables that are not only cheaper, but also fresher and more sustainable. Oranges, cabbage, pumpkin or artichokes are delicious options and much more affordable than imported products. And remember, a simple ingredient can become a delicious surprise if you know how to prepare and present it properly. In addition, by choosing seasonal ingredients, you not only save money, but you also support local producers.

Rethink the menu

If your budget is tight, you don't have to compromise on quality. Although seafood or lamb are classics on many holiday tables, there are equally festive, delicious and much more economical alternatives. A good chicken roast or a more modest seafood soup can be just as festive and much more economical.

Control spending with the use of cash or prepaid cards

One of the best ways to avoid temptation is to set a fixed budget and stick to it. Paying in cash or using a prepaid card will make it much clearer about your spending and you'll avoid the slip of overbuying in a moment of holiday excitement.

Wholesale purchase

If you are planning to buy non-perishable products, such as wines, cold cuts or sweets, consider buying in bulk. Wholesale stores often offer competitive prices, and if you buy in bulk, you can save considerably. You can consider buying lots with family or friends.

Make a shopping list and stick to it.

The first step to avoid impulse purchases is to have a clear and detailed list of what you really need. Holiday temptations are everywhere, and many times an irresistible offer can make us fall into the trap of buying something we don't need. A well-thought-out list will help you stay focused on the essentials.

Cooking at home

Instead of spending money on industrial salads and canapés or expensive baked goods, such as the yule log, consider the option of making them at home. Not only can it be a fun activity to do with the family, but also a way to reduce costs. Plus, you can customize your recipes and give them a unique touch.

Use leftovers

Christmas usually leaves us with a good number of leftovers. Making the most of them can be an excellent way to avoid waste and save money. Roast chicken, for example, can be transformed into delicious croquettes, cakes, gratins or lasagnas. This way, you maximize what you've already paid for and reduce waste.

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