I love the holiday season. At the risk of sounding shallow, I must admit I love both the giving and receiving of gifts this time of the year. There’s nothing like surprising that special someone with that something special you found just for them. Seeing the joy on the receiver’s face brings me all the thanks I need. Don’t even worry about writing me a thank you card, friend.
However, gift buying out of obligation or through the hustle and bustle of the season sometimes causes us to fall into the trap of buying useless junk. We don’t know what to purchase so we reach for the first cute item on the shelf, head to the mile long check out, and then wrap it ASAP.
This year, why not give a gift that saves your loved one money all year long – a doubly good gift. The following items can help fuel their financial goals and bring joy at the same time keeping more cash in their wallet in the twelve months that follow December 25th.
Coffee Maker
Have a java lover on your list? Small appliances prices drop to their lowest during late November/early December. Skip the pricey, fancy machines and opt for a known name brand, basic 12 cup pot model. Add in a package of coffee beans or grounds, a travel mug, and maybe even his or her favorite syrup from a coffee shop. Instead of paying $5 dollars per cup, they can make their own at home for pennies!
I recommend:
- Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, Black currently less than $20!
- Hamilton Beach Single Serve Coffee Maker and Coffee Pot Maker, Programmable
Programmable Thermostat
So this isn’t the most romantic gift, but I promise you every dad (or thermostat freak like me) would jump for joy if given one of these. Whether you go low tech and buy a model used and set from home or you gift one of the new thermostats that can be controlled from an app on your phone, this gift helps the recipient spend less on energy expenses throughout the entire year.
I recommend:
- Honeywell 1 Week Programmable Thermostat currently less than $25!
- Honeywell RTH9585WF1004/W Wi-Fi Smart Color Programmable Thermostat
Reusable Water Bottle
Why not buy a gift that saves dollars and the earth. Invest in a solid bottle that will survive multiple cycles through the dishwasher. I have a glass reusable water bottle that’s lasted me years.
I recommend:
- Ello Syndicate BPA-Free Glass Water Bottle with Flip Lid currently less than $11!
- Contigo Purity Glass Water Bottle, 20 oz with Silicone Tether currently less than $8!
Personal Finance Books
Have a friend who loves to save? Is your son or daughter on a pursuit to pay off debt? Consider purchasing a book to further inspire the journey. You could even buy an audiobook when available. I’d recommend Slaying the Debt Dragon or Your Money, Your Marriage.
I recommend:
- Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After
- Your Money, Your Marriage: The Secrets to Smart Finance, Spicy Romance, and Their Intimate Connection
- The Total Money Makeover
Gas Gift Cards
Most of us need gas on a weekly basis. Why not remove the pressure of this regular purchase in the new year. Help meet a basic need this Christmas.
Gift Cards for Streaming Services
Netflix, Hulu, Gaming services and more – online streaming charges really add up. Reduce these monthly budget expenses by buying gift cards to offset the cost. The next TV binge will be on you!
Home Delivery Meal Kits
Services like Blue Apron, Hello Fresh, Plated, and Home Chef have changed the way families shop for groceries and eat. I know no busy mom who wouldn’t want dinner time simplified. Groceries and recipes delivered straight to her door save both time and money. A meal planning service like eMeals is also great!
Containers for Leftovers
Buying lunch out on a regular basis tanks even the sturdiest of budgets. This year, give the gift of packing leftovers. Purchase a nice set of reusable containers small enough for individual lunches. I always go with glass so you can easily see what’s inside the dish when stored in the refrigerator.
I recommend:
- Utopia Kitchen Glass Food Storage Container Set – 18 Pieces (9 Containers + 9 Lids)
- Set of 6 Microwave Food Storage Tray Containers – Compartment Divided Plates w/ Vented Lid
A Class to Learn a New Skill
Whether it’s cooking or coding, many retailers, colleges, and even local gyms offer classes that could be a gift to help further healthy finances or a healthy body. Let them unwrap the gift of learning this year.
Anything That’s Helped You Save
A friend of mine recently told me her Secret Santa exchange this year only allowed participants to spend $10 or less to purchase something they use everyday that makes life easier. Think about what regularly helps you get your job done more efficiently. What makes keeping a home more simple? Which tools have guided your finances? Purchase those items for the people you love this year.
Choose a present that keeps on giving by saving the lucky recipient money. Skip something that might be used only once or twice a year and instead purchase a gift that could make each day a little brighter. Be thoughtful. Be kind. Give a gift that counts the cost this Christmas.
Our new book Your Money, Your Marriage is now available! Be sure to check out videos on managing money together on Facebook.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
[…] Cherie Lowe is the Queen of Free, and this Sunday on WTHR Weekend Sunrise, she shared “10 Gifts That Save Money All Year Long.” […]