For more money ideas so you get the most bang out of those Christmas crackers, here are 12 tips:
1. Make a list, check it twice! Sticking to a checklist really ticks all the boxes for keeping spending on track.
2. Pay in cash. It's nice to start the new year without a giant credit card bill, if you can manage it.
3. Agree on a dollar limit for gifts. And if you each pick names out of a hat, everyone can focus their gift-giving without spending a fortune.
4. Even Santa has a budget. The kids need to get this message early on.
5. Comparison shop 'til you drop. Get the best deal possible by researching prices online.
6. Stay home, shop online. Lots can be found for less on the internet, but make sure to include shipping costs as you compare.
7. Op-shopping rules. Stretch those dollars by thrift shopping for bargains on unique or vintage gifts.
8. Skip shopping for yourself. Wait until Boxing Day and score fantastic bargains then.
9. Redeem points on your reward cards for vouchers or gifts. Every little bit helps ease the holiday budget!
10. Try DIY. Get the kids involved too, whether it's baking, crafting or knitting.
11. Give homemade vouchers. These can be for babysitting, gardening, painting the deck, cleaning the boat or anything else.
12. Start saving early for next year. Once we've made it through this Christmas, look towards the next and spread the costs!
Get Sorted is written by Sorted's resident blogger, Tom Hartmann. Check out the guides and calculators at Sorted – brought to you by the Commission for Financial Capability – at sorted.org.nz.