The holiday season for many people means a time of giving. Buying gifts for the ones you love is incredibly rewarding, especially for those who help in life with a spinal cord injury. From your family and friends to caregivers, it feels good to shower them with gifts; even if you don't have a lot of money.
But you don't have to break the bank to make them feel special. There are ways to buy gifts if you’re on a limited budget that are still fun and come out as impressive. Whether you search for a coupon code or make something homemade, there are a lot of options out there. Read on to see some of our favorite ideas.
Use Groupon
There are several discount websites online, but one of the most popular by far is Groupon, and it's no wonder. They offer steep discounts in nearly every category of gifts you can imagine, and they’re able to do this because of the large number of people buying their gifts. Companies are interested in giving steep discounts when so many people purchase their items in a short amount of time. They sell it all, from cool lighted key chains to trips to Italy. The prices that can be found on Groupon are unlike any other site online. Groupon doesn't only sell goods from various merchants, but they also offer coupons and cash back for shopping at certain retail stores as well.
Buy Everyone the Same Thing
If it's possible, buying the same gift for everyone on your list is an easy way to save money, not to mention a stress-free method of buying gifts. While it may not be possible if you have kids on your list who want something specific, for adults who aren’t picky, buying one gift and giving it to everyone can save you money. For example, you can go to a discount store and buy several baskets and then fill them up with a variety of gifts.
The baskets then contain all the same things, whether it's a jar of salsa, a photo in a frame, or any other crafty item you can think of. Electronics, unisex bath products, games, food items, and more; there are a lot of things you can purchase in bulk that you can spread out among several gifts. Also, try looking at stores like Sam's Club or Costco to save on bulk purchases.
Search for a Coupon Code Before Every Purchase
Savvy shoppers always know to search online for a coupon code before buying something anywhere, whether online or in-person. You might be surprised by how many coupon codes are available, and for a plethora of things. They can save you a ton of money. Always search the store's name plus the words "coupon codes" to find coupon codes for your purchase. Once you get into the habit of searching for them, you will not be able to stop. A helpful website that lets people submit known coupon codes is called RetailMeNot. You might try looking there for coupons from the store you want to shop from. If all else fails, Google might help you find lesser-known coupon codes.
Make Homemade Gifts (or Have Your PCA Help)
If you really want to save money, check out homemade gift idea websites. There may be certain things you absolutely won't be able to do, like sew a blanket, but there are several different holiday gift craft websites with ideas that are super easy. Many people like to make homemade candles, while others like to make homemade food items from canned goods to baked goods. Some even make their own beef jerky. Other fun homemade gift ideas include beer, wine, art such as paintings or other crafts, homemade jewelry, dog treats, or even homemade air freshener using essential oils.
Dollar Stores Can Have Cool Finds
Don't forget to shop at the dollar stores on your hunt for deals this holiday season. There are several items at dollar stores that could make many people happy. Whether you buy the great deals on chocolate, decorations, dog toys, toys for kids, kitchen utensils, glassware, etc, you will be surprised at what can be purchased at dollar stores.
Just remember - you do not have to go broke this holiday season buying gifts for the ones you love. Being on a limited budget when you have a spinal cord injury can be stressful enough. Don't let your limited budget spoil the shopping fun. Instead, look at it as a challenge that you can definitely meet. After all, it is the thought that counts.
What are some gift ideas that you're thinking of doing this year? Comment below.
