Smart Ways to Save While Holiday Shopping
As the holiday season approaches, you may be feeling the pressure on your budget. However, with a little planning and the right tools, you can enjoy more savings as you make your list and check it twice.
Here are eight ways to save as you shop this season.
Holiday Shopping Tips: Budgets, Rewards and Discounts
1. Make Your Budget and Stick to It
Before you start your shopping, figure out how much you’re able to spend overall. Assign a spending limit to each friend or family member, and ensure the total of these limits doesn’t exceed your overall budget.
When you shop with a limit in mind, you’ll be less likely to make impulse purchases and feel more in control. Plus, working within a budget will inspire you to get more creative with the gifts you choose.
2. Earn Cashback When You Buy Gift Cards
Using Buy Gift Cards, Get Cashback for your favorite retailers, restaurants and more helps you earn cashback for your spending! Cashback can be transferred to an Apple FCU account or redeemed for more gift cards.
Use gift cards to help you budget your spending, or send someone far away a digital gift card as a gift. Either way, you’ll be giving yourself a little extra, too!
3. Use Credit Card Rewards Points
Do you have an Apple FCU Signature Rewards Card or a MyRewards card? If so, check your points balance before you start shopping. Your points can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, travel and more—helping you reduce out-of-pocket costs as you shop.
Remember: if you’re traveling this season or in charge of a holiday dish, use your Rewards Card to earn 3x the points on gas and 2x the points on groceries.
4. Find Deals on Local Experiences to Gift
If you want to gift someone you love an adventure or a relaxing day away, check out websites like Groupon and CertifiKid. These digital voucher websites can help you find discounts on top experiences like indoor waterparks, spas and more. These can be a great option for the friend or family member who insists they don’t need any more stuff.
5. Stack Savings with Rebate Apps
Want to maximize your savings, regardless of where you’re shopping? Consider using rebate apps like Rakuten, Upside or Fetch. You can earn rewards on qualifying purchases when you shop through their apps or scan your receipts.
When paired with rewards cards or Buy Gift Cards, Get Cashback, you may be able to enjoy multiple rewards from one purchase.
6. Take Advantage of Visa Offers
Before you purchase anything online, check and see if you can save through Visa Offers.
As an Apple FCU member and a Visa cardholder, you have access to hundreds of discounts and special offers on destinations, experiences and more.
7. Check Return Policies Before You Buy
Not every gift will be a perfect fit. Review stores’ return policies before you commit to the gift, just in case you need to return it.
Some retailers may extend their return windows during the holiday season. Others might have unique restrictions. Knowing the policy ahead of time will help make any gift exchanges easier.
8. Start Saving for Next Year's Holidays
The best time to start saving for next year’s holiday season, is when this year’s holiday season ends.
In the new year, try dedicating a small amount of your budget each month to holiday savings. If you can save even just $10 a week, you could have an extra $430 in your pocket by next November.
Need a dedicated savings account for your holiday fund? You can open an Apple FCU Holiday Club Account with as little as $5 and make deposits throughout the year. On November 1, your funds will automatically transfer to your Checking or Savings account.
Enjoy the Holidays Without Overspending
By sticking to a budget, taking advantage of rewards and cashback opportunities and planning ahead for future expenses, you can enjoy the holidays while making the most of every dollar.
For even more ways to save and earn rewards, explore our savings resources and make the most of your budget year-round.
