Tips for Celebrating Christmas on a Military Budget

As an Army wife I know how hard it can be to have to stick to a military budget especially when it comes to celebrating holidays such as Christmas. Here are 10 tips to help others who have to adhere to a military budget and how you can still make your Christmas great!

1. Save your Christmas decorations! Many people try and stock up on new decorations every year or so but one way to save on decorating your home for Christmas is to save all your Christmas decorations and re-use them. Even Christmas tree ornaments that are missing hooks are still re-usable. Simply buy a small package of hooks and then you can use them once again.

2. Take your family Christmas picture at home. If you have a nice digital camera you can easily take your own family picture at home. Instead of going to an expensive photo studio where you can spend up to hundreds of dollars on pictures you can take some at your home. Besides being much more cost efficient it is also easier with children since they are in their own environment. You can get the pictures developed at several different places and get special touches added to them if you wish.

3. Take advantage of special Christmas shopping days. While it may not be appealing to some, getting out and doing your shopping on days such as Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, you can save a lot of money. Be sure to take along a list of people you need to buy for and have a general idea of how much you would like to spend on each person. This can make it much easier.

4. Buy stocking stuffers and small gifts at dollar stores. Dollar stores and Dollar Trees are great places to buy smaller items that are perfect for stockings as well as small gift baskets for people. They sell everything from small toys to bath wash.

5. Pick a price limit on the gift you exchange with your significant other. Sit down together and pick a price that is right for both of you and stick to it. This can not only cut down on cost but give you a chance to discuss the things you really want for Christmas.

6. Give out homemade gifts. While this may not work for everyone you can opt for homemade gifts and save a bundle! Get some inexpensive cookie tins and make a variety of different cookies and other treats people may like. This is a great gift idea for neighbors, teachers or your mailman.

7. Buy some items used. This is a great idea for items such as DVD's, CD's and books. Many times people will buy an item such as a DVD and watch it once and then put it away or go to sell it. The same thing applies to CD's and books. Check out used book stores or online auction sites to get the best deals.

8. Look for discounts online. There are special sites dedicated just for special online discounts for items such as gift cards. For example, at Restaurant.com you can purchase $25 gift certificates for sometimes 80% off! These are great for co-workers, teachers or friends.

9. Stay at home more this Christmas season. Take advantage of the movie marathons TV channels put on or get together and play some family board games. Not only are saving money but you are making great memories as well.

10. Look for military discounts. There are many places that offer military discounts to servicemen and their families. Be sure to bring your military ID and show it to the store you are shopping at to see if you qualify.