It’s beginning to look a lot like . . . well you get the point. The days book with special gatherings with friends and family and our to do lists grow longer and longer until December 31st. There’s so much to take in and celebrate but then again there’s so much to buy, too. Gifts, extra groceries, household goods that help us host parties – the list goes on and on. Yes, it’s definitely easy to spend a little extra during the holiday season without even realizing what we’ve done. However, rather than ending November with an instructive (and boring) piece on how you should tighten your belt (you already know that, after all), I thought it would be a little bit more fun to talk about purchases you should be making during the months of November and December. You see, some items are marked to their lowest prices of the year. Now is the time to capitalize on those discounts and either stock up or replace outdated goods. Here are the best purchases you can make at Christmas Time!
Baking Items
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to fill your house with the fragrance of sweet cinnamon. Due to the demand for Christmas cookies for Santa and pumpkin pie for the pilgrims, there is also a high demand for pantry staples like flour, sugar, and chocolate chips. If your budget allows, stock up on these products while the prices are lower. Their long shelf life can sustain your cabinets long after the winter snows are gone.
Slow Cookers
A frugal girl’s best friend, slow cookers drop to the lowest prices of the year during the holiday season. You’ll begin to see the best deals emerge mid November and peak on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you need a larger model or a replacement, now is the best time to strike while crocks are hot.
Large Meats
Almost every traditional holiday gathering features a ham or turkey. Even out-of-the-box larger cuts of meat like brisket and pork loin typically drop in price at the end of the year as supermarkets entice shoppers into their doors. Clear out some space in your freezer to guarantee you can take advantage of your grocer’s best manager specials in the meat department.
Board Games
Family time just isn’t the same without a round of Phase 10 or a Monopoly marathon. If your tribe enjoys a good board game, begin watching the deals for these classic holiday pastimes. Again, the best prices pop up around Black Friday but throughout the holiday season coupons abound for board and card games, well paired with deep discounts. For some of my favorite board games, check out Four Family Games to Play over the Holidays.
Red Reusable Kitchenware
Matching platters, bowls, cups, and baskets all glow with festive cheer, making your kitchen cozy and merry. When you look for items to serve your holiday meals or host friends and family, be sure to buy a more generic solid red hue. Red reusable kitchenware features well for celebrations throughout the year – Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, birthdays, and more. The absolute best prices present after Christmas on clearance. Stock up then to keep the happy in each holiday throughout the year to come.
Obviously you should never ever spend more than you make, but if you can afford to think about purchasing extra items like these when their prices are at their best. In the weeks to come, avoid the many temptations by zeroing in on these practical, money saving items.
Don’t forget to take the Debt Free Christmas Pledge before you order anything by accessing Queen of Free.
Gain inspiration to pay off debt! Check out Inspiration to Pay Off Debt: 30 Days of Encouragement from the Queen of Free
