5 Ways to Save Money Before the Holidays

Believe it or not, we have all officially made it to the middle of December! And, can you believe Hanukkah is well underway and Christmas is in just over a week? Suddenly, this month feels like it’s flying by, especially because our to-do lists are all full and (likely) overflowing. If you’re still purchasing gifts for everyone on your list or prepping to enjoy the holiday season, we thought we would share five ways to save money and keep your budget in check. Yes, it’s still possible! Keep reading below.

1. Watch for Sales:

As retailers and small businesses alike try to meet their sales goals this holiday season, many are still launching opportunities to save daily. We find the sales can change quickly from day-to-day, so if you think the price of an item on your list might come down there’s a solid chance it might. This is especially true if you’re purchasing clothing. The key thing to do is to keep tabs on your email if you’re signed up to receive emails, or pop onto the retailer’s website daily. You never know when the sale you’ve been hoping for will launch, and the best thing you can do is to be ready.

2. Redeem Your Kicks:

When was the last time you checked your kick balance? We know you check it often, but if it’s been a minute pop into the app and see how many kicks you have earned. Then, redeem them for a gift card! This is a great way to save because you can redeem your kicks for a retailer that has items you still need to purchase on your list. Checking off the final items will feel great when you know you can use a gift card to lessen the amount you owe!   

3. Follow Your List:

December always means extra trips to retailers and grocery stores alike, and it’s so easy to veer off of your list. In order to keep your budget in check, make a list before you go and stick to it! If you do see items that inspire a different idea, consider if it’s worth it to change course. The thing to do, though, is to edit – don’t add and spend more than you had planned.

4. Shop Online, Pick Up In-Store:

This year, shopping online and picking up your order at the store has become incredibly popular. And, we’re fans for several reasons! First, shopping online still means you can earn kicks. Second, shopping from home means you’re going to be much less likely to purchase items that aren’t on your list. You’re visiting a specific webpage rather allowing additional things to catch your eye as you search for what you need in the store. Third, shopping online is a great way to avoid shipping costs, and you can pick your order up on the same day in many cases. Fourth, it’s the easiest way to social distance! Have we convinced you to give it a try?

5. Go Homemade:

Homemade gifts are typically the most thoughtful gifts given and received year after year. And, it’s for a great reason! They require thought, time, and care, and family and friends typically love to see what you have created with them in mind. So, make an ornament, frame photos you print at the pharmacy, bake cookies, cook and deliver a meal. The options are endless, and the time you will spend creating your DIY will be well worth it both as you save money and experience the reaction of your recipient opening a gift that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

How are you saving money as we near the end of the holiday season? Chime in with our community on Facebook!

Want to treasure hunt for free gift cards?

Turn your next shopping trip into an in-store treasure hunt. Aside from the tons of fun you’ll have, you can also earn hundreds of Shopkick points (called “kicks”). You can redeem those kicks for free gift cards immediately to stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.com and much more. It’s that easy! All you have to do is open the Shopkick app and scan select product barcodes. Wondering where to find scans? Target, Walmart, drug stores and grocery stores typically have the most kicks for scanning, but be sure to check the Shopkick app for the latest inventory.

Don’t have Shopkick? Download it now.

How to scan:

Step 1: Find a product to scan

Look for the barcode icon on products in Shopkick.

Step 2: Visit a store with scans

Locate the product to scan (double check to make sure it’s the right one).

Step 3: Tap “scan barcode” open the camera

Hold up the camera to the barcode, and you’ll instantly receive your kicks!

Remember, you can only earn kicks for scans performed while in the store.  

 

Here’s what Shopkickers love about scanning:

Shopkick spreads smiles one scan at a time! I love seeing other shopkickers in the store.  It’s like a secret society when you both see that blue kick circle light up! – Michelle N.

My kids treat scans like a treasure hunt! We enjoy the time together and all get exercise walking round the stores.  I’ve used my kicks to buy them gifts that were out of my budget.  — Ashley G.