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5 Ways to Save Money Before the Holidays

Believe it or not, we’ve officially made it to mid-December — and if it feels like the month is flying by, you’re not alone. Hanukkah is well underway, and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday to-do lists growing by the minute, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when it comes to staying on budget.

If you’re still checking off gifts or prepping for celebrations, don’t worry — it’s not too late to save! Here are five simple ways to keep your spending in check while still embracing the season.

1. Watch for Last-Minute Sales

Retailers (big and small!) are still rolling out daily deals as they aim to hit their end-of-year goals. Flash sales — especially on clothing and accessories — can change quickly, so it pays to stay alert. Keep an eye on your inbox if you’re signed up for brand emails, or check your favorite store’s website regularly. The sale you’ve been waiting for could drop any day!

2. Redeem Your Kicks

When’s the last time you checked your Shopkick balance? If it’s been a while, now’s the time. Redeem your kicks for gift cards to help cover the cost of those final items on your list. Whether it’s a toy, tech, or last-minute stocking stuffer, using kicks to shave down your total feels like a holiday win.

3. Stick to Your List

Extra store runs are par for the course in December — but they’re also where unplanned spending sneaks in. Before you head out, make a list of what you truly need and commit to sticking with it. If something unexpected catches your eye, pause and decide: is it worth editing your list, or will it blow your budget?

4. Shop Online + Pick Up In-Store

This hybrid method has become a holiday hero. You still earn kicks, you avoid shipping costs, and you dramatically reduce impulse buys by only shopping from your pre-planned list. Plus, many retailers offer same-day pickup — and it’s a great way to avoid crowds and stay socially distant. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and safer.

5. Go Homemade

When it comes to heartfelt gifts, DIY almost always wins. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a framed photo, a handmade ornament, or a home-cooked meal, these gifts are thoughtful, personal, and budget-friendly. Best of all, they show your loved ones how much you care — without maxing out your wallet.

What are your go-to ways to save this season?
Share your best tips and ideas with our community on Facebook — we’d love to hear how you’re making the most of the holidays, your way.

Want to treasure hunt for free gift cards?

Turn your next shopping trip into an in-store treasure hunt. Aside from the tons of fun you’ll have, you can also earn hundreds of Shopkick points (called “kicks”). You can redeem those kicks for free gift cards immediately to stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.com and much more. It’s that easy! All you have to do is open the Shopkick app and scan select product barcodes. Wondering where to find scans? Target, Walmart, drug stores and grocery stores typically have the most kicks for scanning, but be sure to check the Shopkick app for the latest inventory.

Don’t have Shopkick? Download it now.

How to scan:

Step 1: Find a product to scan

Look for the barcode icon on products in Shopkick.

Step 2: Visit a store with scans

Locate the product to scan (double check to make sure it’s the right one).

Step 3: Tap “scan barcode” open the camera

Hold up the camera to the barcode, and you’ll instantly receive your kicks!

Remember, you can only earn kicks for scans performed while in the store.  

 

Here’s what Shopkickers love about scanning:

Shopkick spreads smiles one scan at a time! I love seeing other shopkickers in the store.  It’s like a secret society when you both see that blue kick circle light up! – Michelle N.

My kids treat scans like a treasure hunt! We enjoy the time together and all get exercise walking round the stores.  I’ve used my kicks to buy them gifts that were out of my budget.  — Ashley G.