Being Smart with Your Money at Christmas

Christmas is the time of year when it's easy to go overboard and get further in debt. I know I've had my years where I did well paying down debt for the year, only to get it right back thanks to Christmas. There are many reasons not to go overboard this season. One of the many reasons is waste.

Please take a few moments this year to think about all you may be wasting this holiday season. Here are some suggestions below to help reduce your level of waste this season:

• Oil - Do you have an artificial Christmas tree? If not, why not avoid that purchase and go get a real tree? The fake trees are loaded with plastics that are made from the same oil we need to make gasoline for our cars. Conserve oil in one place and it will be cheaper in others. If you already have the artificial type, maintain it well, there is no good way to dispose of them. On the other hand, many cities will collect real trees and chip them up into mulch for use in parks or as something free for residents. Check your local government for more information.
• Electricity - If you need new lights for Christmas this year, avoid the old twinklers and get some of the new fangled LED lights. They are just as bright, but use less energy and last longer. Take care of them well and they can last a lifetime. Oh, and turn off those outdoor lights overnight. Your neighbors and your electric bill will thank you. Better yet, put them on a timer so you don't have to remember!
• Food - We always end up cooking way too much food at Christmas. Think about cutting back this year. Do you really need that 12 lb turkey for the 4 of you? If it's still around a week later and you have to throw it out, it's too much! Try a small ham or even a turkey breast instead. Keep leftovers to a minimum and make sure they are completely cool before you put them in the fridge. That will help save electricity as well as the fridge won't have to work so hard.
• Packaging - With so many presents at Christmas, unwanted wrapping paper and packaging are inevitable. Avoid plastic ribbons and bows unless you plan to save and re-use them next year. And please, take the time to collect the used paper and cardboard boxes to take them to a local recycling center. Or, forgo a typical gift for that special someone and give them the gift of giving by donating to a local charity they support in their name.
• Money - Some of these tips might not be the easiest thing on your budget, but they will make you feel better about Christmas in the long run. In exchange, why not forgo a present or two to make up the difference.

For some more thoughts on Christmas check out these articles:

Have an eco-Friendly Christmas

World Vision