Round-up and save
My family has a savings rule - the “Round-up” rule. When you make a purchase, round up to the nearest $5, or whichever amount you prefer, and transfer the difference into savings. If you buy a coffee for $3.50 then transfer $1.50 into savings. This can help build up savings effortlessly in the lead-up to Christmas.
Kylie Hohl, Mallala, SA
Make your parties potluck
Hosting gatherings can be costly but you can reduce the burden by organising potluck meals. Ask friends and family to bring their favourite dishes, turning the event into a feast with minimal expenses (for everyone). You don’t even need to host… embrace the summer and head to a park
Kate Adams, Melbourne, Vic
Be gifting savvy
For adults, a nice catch-up is enough of a gift. Most of us shop for ourselves and don’t need novelty socks or gizmos at Christmas. Agree to limit gift-buying to the kids in your circle. Consider giving them money, with a note about putting it into a bank account to help them save. Use it as a teaching opportunity.
Luke Smith, Canberra, ACT
Use all of those leftovers
With a little ingenuity, festive-season leftovers can be freshened up and turned into delicious dishes in the days after Christmas, which saves time and money. When it comes to repurposing leftovers, my advice is to keep it simple. Add protein to an omelette or throw together warm salads. For anything that can’t be used now, the freezer is your best friend.
Kate Curran, Bowral, NSW
Upcycle gifts
Gifts don’t have to be costly. Re-pot plants or succulents from the garden into Mason jars and finish with a ribbon. If you’re crafty, use things from your home. I borrowed a sewing machine and turned old fabric into aprons. A little effort will wow loved ones.
Kristinawati Pim, Perth, WA
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