Spending and Saving
The New Rules for the Recession Holidays
Tight times have brought out our ingenuity in spending and this second holiday season of the downturn is no different. We rounded up a few of our favorite new rules for surviving the holidays:
* Regift. It’s both budget-friendly and good for the environment: Recycle those unwanted yet still brand-new socks, wine bags, candy dishes, etc. “Regifting” – the act of giving someone a gift that you had received – is growing fashionable. A poll by Consumer Reports found that 36% of U.S. adults said they would recycle a gift this year, compared with 31% last year and 24% in 2007.
* Group-give. First, pare your list to its essentials, then find a buddy or two to go in on gifts for those on your list. This tip comes from Jack Chary, who also recommends starting a Christmas savings account in the future. Good thinking.
* Get fat. Okay, don’t make it a goal, but Robin’s FYI suggests the extra pressures of this holiday season may be a little easier if you’re not also having to stress over what you’re eating.
* BYOF. When flying, you’ll save money by bringing your own food from home, rather than pay the airport’s or airline’s premium (plus, it’ll probably taste better, too).
Finally, the Dolans have some thoughts on free activities that will help you save money:
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[...] has also posted several articles on saving money on holiday gifts. One post, titled “The New Rules for the Recession Holidays,” suggests that some previously taboo [...]