Last-Minute, Budget-Friendly Christmas Gifts
For those who celebrate, the run up to Christmas can be hectic. So, when at university, consumed by exams throughout November and December, it’s no wonder that gifts are often left to the last minute. When you have missed Black Friday deals, or don’t want to face busy shops in the weeks before the 25th you may find yourself more lenient with your spending. However, there are many gifts that can be budget-friendly and still put a smile on your loved ones faces in time for Christmas.
Homemade gifts
Homemade gifts are heart-felt and easy to adjust to your budget. Some ideas for homemade gifts include a scrapbook, a printed photo in a frame, baked goods or (if your craftier) maybe a nice painting or something you have hand knitted/crocheted. Using what you already have is a good way to keep the price down, like using ingredients you already have to make some festive treats. Making something like a scrapbook shouldn’t take too much time and can be relatively cheap as you can purchase an empty book for often under £5 online and use an app like FreePrints to print your photos out for free. Basically, anything you can make that wraps up nicely could present as a lovely gift.
Second-hand gifts
Second-hand gifts are often better for the environment and your budget. With a whole host of charity shops in St Andrews it can be a quick and cheap way to pick out gifts for your nearest and dearest. St AndReuse, a town wide project that allows people to swap or buy (for a cheap price) pre-loved and second-hand items, is also a good option. Unlike what people may assume you can find much more than just clothes in charity shops, often you can pick up nice glass sets, books and children’s toys, meaning they have something for everyone. If you aren’t currently in town, many online websites also offer second-hand things, like Vinted or Depop. When shopping online it can be helpful to do it at least a week before you need the present, as often extra charges are added for next-day or express delivery, so it could be a better idea to research charity shops near you.
Secret Santa gifts
Secret Santa is another great way to keep costs down at Christmas. Secret Santa is a gift-giving tradition where participants in a group, often friends, family, or colleagues, draw names randomly to determine whom they will buy a gift for. Participants will together set a budget so being transparent with friends and family whilst doing this is important. Secret Santa saves time and money, as you each participant only has to buy a gift for one person and so it acts as a great solution for those part of big families or friend groups. By setting a smaller budget of £10/15 It encourages participants to be thoughtful and creative with their gifts using the ideas listed before.
Remembering Christmas isn’t all about expensive gifts
The rush towards Christmas doesn’t have to result in financial strain. Homemade, second-hand or Secret Santa gifts all can show just how much you care without exceeding a budget. These thoughtful gestures remind us that the real spirit of the season is found in the thought behind the gift, not its price tag.