Cashed up for Christmas?

Perusing the Toys R Us catalogue I am overcome with the urge to splurge this Christmas.


Whilst ‘tis the season to be giving it is also the season to put in place some sensible spending parameters.
What can you really afford to spend over the Christmas/School Holiday period?

I might sound like the party pooper but a budget this time of the year is a must. Enter in your after tax income and all your usual monthly expenses plus the Christmas Period wish-list and see where you stand; what can you afford and what do you need to finance.

1. Credit Cards – most credit cards have incredibly high interest charges. Only spend what you can afford to pay back without incurring interest OR transfer your Christmas balance to a card where you can pay the balance off over the no interest period (usually 6 months)


2. Buy Now Pay Later – we are bombarded with interest free deals, usually for big ticket items and it can be very tempting. If you decide to go down this track be very wary of these deals and understand the terms and conditions. In some cases, failure to make a monthly instalment on time can result in interest being charged in full.


3. Mortgage Draw down – this can be a good way to fund short term finance for a holiday or a sack full of toys. If you have a variable interest rate, keep in mind that an interest rate rise is likely to occur early in the new year.

There are also a number of bargains to cut your spending:-


Toys R Us – you might have received the catalogue in the mail – Sale starts 1st December. Save as much as 50%!


Peters of Kensington – fantastic online store for kitchen & dining wares, general home wares and great his/her gift ideas.


Deals Direct – just about anything electrical or IT is well priced.


There has been a great deal of talk about lowering the GST threshold for imports. However, at this stage the GST and customs threshold of AUD1,000 still stands.


This, coupled with a strong AUD, looking fabulous no longer has to break the bank…


Neimen Marcus – whilst the Cartier watches might not be on the list, this store has a selection of delectable designer clothes and accessories - check out the sales. However, if you are not registered as a buyer could take 3+ weeks to ship. (note – ship via HopShopGo)


Revolve Clothing – with the launch of a more user friendly website, enjoy an easier shopping experience and free shipping for purchases over USD100


ShopBop – the list of designers keeps growing. Fantastic sale items. Free shipping for purchases over USD100


Net A Porter, my favourite online store for women’s clothes & accessories – watch out for the sale of the season – TBA any day. More pricey due to GBP but sale items can still be extremely attractive. Shipping GBP20 and arrives in 3 days.


Strawberry Net – discounted makeup, skin products and perfume. The more times you buy, the higher the discount


Amazon. Books are my favourite on this site.  Fantastic prices, like my present purchases   Louis Vuitton and Chanel. But order quickly. Shipping can be a nightmare.


Ralph Lauren – Is there any better top than a Polo for your man? Free shipping for purchases over USD200 (note, ship via HopShopGo).
 
Perfume Country - good discounts and extensive range for those hard to find fragrances like my favourite Fleurissimo.  There is a cost for shipping so why not put in an order for yourself and some friends to split the cost.  Order early as can take 3 weeks.