Money

Harness these shopping hacks to ensure a fabulous festive season for all

It's not too late to save for Christmas!
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With a little creativity and some know-how, that lengthy list of presents that you’re buying for all the family and friends needn’t be overwhelming.

Save hundreds of dollars by following these tips.

Christmas is only a month away!

(Image: Instagram)

Use discount codes

Online purchase promotions or discount codes are there to be used, so be savvy and see what’s out there before you buy. Simply download an extension app such as Honey (joinhoney.com) which does the searching for you or Google current promo codes for the retailer.

You can save around 10 per cent when you find a code, sometimes more.

Use up your giftcards

Website finder.com.au has found that around a third of people have bought a gift card and haven’t put it to use. Now is the time to check your purse or wallet – if there’s one still in there, use it to buy gifts.

It’s a win-win situation, knowing you have saved money and made good use of an asset that was waiting to be used.

There’s still time to save for Christmas.

(Image: Instagram)

Get cashback

Those little rewards can add up. Grab your phone right now and download apps such as Shopback (shopback.com.au) and Cashrewards (cashrewards.com.au). They can allow you to earn up to 30 per cent cash rewards on purchases.

These apps operate like an upfront discount in reverse. They especially work well for big-ticket items such as laptops and ebikes.

Buy vintage

Research from Bunnings has revealed that almost 20 per cent more Aussies are now turning to upcycling compared to this time last year in an effort to make their dollar stretch further. Join them and consider vintage or upcycled pressies by visiting op shops and checking online at Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace.

Whether it’s an artwork, vase or piece of jewellery, sometimes all it takes is a little varnish or some sugar soap.

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