Christmas for Zero $$$$ Can it be done?

Christmas is expensive, in case you’re new to the planet and didn’t know that already.  Even when I try to be frugal I tend to get swept up in the season and spend too much.

This year I cashed in all my savings apps to help offset the cost, which made me wonder, can I pay for Christmas gifts with JUST my cash, points, gift cards and freebies from my rewards programs?

So I thought I’d give it a try this year, and bring you along for the journey.  Maybe it will work.  At the very least I’ll have a little pile of money to offset the costs.  Hopefully even more than this year.

So here’s how it will work.  I will start the experiment on November 1^st 2017.  This seems like a valid start date because I will need to cash out of all the apps in October 2018 so I can get my shopping done before Christmas (Yes, I like to shop early)

I usually spend about $50 per person for 9 people and another 200-$250 on my daughter for a total of $650-$700.  That includes stocking stuffers for her but I should budget an additional $50 for the hubby and potential overages, so let’s go with $750. If I save more fantastic, if not oh well.  Then we will both know.  

 

Here are the Rules:

I can only buy items I would normally buy.  No making special purchases to inflate my cash back.  The only exception would be something that I buy frequently and would be ok stocking up on (ie- Bushes Beans) to reach a high limit savings before it expires. 

I will then report back to you each month with my progress and I would love it, if you do decide to join me, if you would let me know how you’re doing in the comments for each post.  Hopefully we can keep each other motivate!

Friday I will post a list of all the programs I will be using. I would have posted it today, but I’m getting a bit long winded, so check back on Friday! I will also post links to the referral programs for anyone who wants to join me (none of them will cost you extra).  I will tell you what I get and what bonus you get for signing up.  It would be so amazing if you join me because I love having friends along with me to do anything.