ARE you looking for new ways to save money this Christmas?
As the big day fast approaches, the JEP has reached out to its online community in search of new ways to save money during the festive season.
Several Islanders got in touch to share their best tips and tricks.
Lisa Susanne Aubert suggested a simpler way for families to share gifts through a version of ‘Secret Santa’.
Lisa explained that families could set a spending limit and everyone will receive one gift from an undisclosed relative in the group.
“It’s so much cheaper and less stressful,” she said.
Jane Fox told the JEP she saves money on Christmas wrapping paper by re-using paper packing from online deliveries and flourishing with ribbons.
Louise Marchant Baker also suggested being creative to limit spending. She encouraged others to “get crafty” and make decorations and presents by hand.
Louise also said by making their gifts, people will have opportunities to learn new skills.
Penny Pinching Bean, a local blog page on Facebook, provided several ideas to save money throughout the year to save money at Christmas.
They suggested buying dry-store foods such as tins and jars throughout the year and frozen food from October onwards to keep for December.
Cashback sites were another key tip, which offer cashback and gift vouchers at participating high street stores and restaurants when initial purchases are made.
In Jersey, outlets where cashback can be claimed include M&S, Costa Coffee, Pizza Express, Bella Italia, and Cineworld, according to advice from Stephanie Hay.
The JEP also put the question of saving money to the Jersey Consumer Council.
The organisation gives consumers advice, promotes their rights, and highlights the quality of products on the market.
Recently, the Consumer Council has launched a local price comparison website for Islanders to weigh up the cost of essential items at all major supermarket chains among other services.
Prices.je also has a dedicated section for comparing Christmas groceries.
Its chief executive, Carl Walker, shared his personal top tip for saving costs at Christmas.
He said: “My top tip is to run down the freezer if you have to and leave plenty of space.”
“There can be some huge discounts on fresh and luxury food on the run to Christmas, which can be bought at heavily discounted prices and frozen for later in the year.”
For more information about the Consumer Council and various tips visit consumercouncil.je/news/tips.
