Save A Fortune: Frugal Christmas And Holidays Tip #6!

Today's frugal tip is designed to break along held myth when it comes to Christmas presents - you do not have to buy new goods for the recipient to enjoy them!

Until recently, I held the view that all Christmas presents should be bought new but I read an article recently on one of my favouite frugal blogs that emphasized that it is the thought that counts rather than the cost. I think we lose sight of many things at Christmas, our credit card balances often being the main one! However, one of the things we have lost sight of in particular is the fact that giving a gift should not be about how much it costs. It should not be a burden on the credit card but rather fit in well with household finances, so why not purchase used or refurbished goods instead?

Take the laptop for example. You can save £100s by buying a refurbished or used laptop rather than a brand new one. There are also used books and CDs available on Amazon and eBay that are in great condition and are much cheaper. After all, I buy used books when I can afford them, some for as little as 1p!

Saving money is essential these days but buying used and refurbished gifts does not mean that you are a scrooge at all. Instead it points to a sensible end to 2008 and a few more pennies safeguarded for 2009.