5 Easy Ways to Save on Gifts

Do you have an annual gift budget for birthdays, holidays such as Mother’s Day & Father’s Day, graduations, and anniversaries?  Gifts are often overlooked when it comes to family budgeting but the price can really add up!  Here are 5 Easy Ways to Save on Gifts:

1. Shop Clearance — Purchasing items out of season from the clearance section is a great way to save money on gift items.  This will require some planning on your part because you’ll have to think ahead almost a year.  For summer birthdays, think beach towels and pool toys.  Avoid purchasing clothing items for children as it’s hard to estimate their growth.
2. Consider Handmade — if you have any crafting or baking skills, consider a homemade gift.  It comes from the heart and will be one of a kind!  There are TONS of gift ideas on Pinterest as well as some great recipes!  Often you’ll already have most of the supplies you need on hand so there will be very little out of pocket expense.
3. Shop the Dollar Store — Pick a theme and fill a gift bag or bucket with fun items.  Suggestions include car wash kit (bucket, sponge, mit, soap, etc.), outdoor fun (large sand pail filled with toys), a night at the movies (popcorn buckets, movie candy, beverages, add a movie or gift card).  These are just a few ideas but there are tons of ways to create great gifts with products from the Dollar Store.  Don’t forget to pick up a card — they’re usually only $0.50!
4. Offer a Service — Offering a service can be one of the best gifts .  The trick is to follow through with it.  Instead of offering a coupon or voucher, surprise someone by washing their car, weeding their garden or setting a date for babysitting services.  Best of all, it won’t cost you a dime but the gratitude of the recipient will be long lasting!
5. Start a Gift Closet — If you have space, consider starting a gift closet.  Pick up deals whenever you see them, either online or in-store and keep them in a specified area.  When you need a gift, go shopping in your own closet!

This post is sponsored by Shed Load of Gift. See Mommies With Cents disclosure policy for more details.