The holidays can be quite a blur sometimes. You just paid off your phone bill, electric bill and rent. You’re low on funds and lack the energy to continue out the rest of the semester. However, you still need to get gifts for your friends and family. Rest your weary mind and pockets! Here are some ways to shop for gifts on a budget.
Gift cards are an underrated treasure
Found in just about every store, gift cards are an underrated treasure that can bring much joy without bearing too much pressure on your wallet. Whether your girlfriend wants the newest eyeshadow palette at Sephora or your dad wants a new watch, gift cards are the way to go. Best of all, you get to decide how much money you want to put on the card!
Consignment stores have hidden gems
Consignment stores are another underestimated treasure when it comes to holiday shopping. You can find anything from paintings, purses, shoes, clothes and fancy silverware all for under $10 at your local consignment store. It’s a safe bet that you will be able to find a gift or two. Just be cautious of subtle stains and tears.
Protip: If you’re worried about the smell (yes, that particular one) giving away where you got the clothes from, you can usually easily wash them out with unscented detergent and fabric softener.
Prepackaged gifts do the work for you
Walmart and Target are very popular when it comes to looking for prepackaged gifts. You can find things from makeup, skincare, hot cocoa, clothes and body care for under $20 if you buy prepackaged gifts.
Fluffy socks and miscellaneous items are always welcomed
You can never go wrong with fluffy socks, chapstick or any other small, but useful items for the holidays, especially during the cold, blistering winter. Depending on where you go, you can buy cute comfortable fluffy socks anywhere from 50¢-$5. Some stores like Target and Ulta will sell packs of lip balm and other lip care products in a bundle anywhere between $5-$15. Those infamous soft blankets that are shared throughout social media can be found at Walmart for under $15. Candles, notebooks and some household items can be found for less than $10 at places like Five Below or TJ Maxx.
Protip: If you want to be environmentally conscious this year, buy stockings and put gifts in them to avoid wasting wrapping paper.
DIY is your best friend
If you’re absolutely down on your luck with cash, DIY is always a good option. Hand-knit a scarf, draw an abstract picture or paint one of those holiday sculptures from Michael’s (under $15). Either way, your friends and family will appreciate your small gesture in partaking in the holiday spirit.
Also, if you just don’t like getting or making gifts for anyone, arrive empty-handed in front of everyone and say your presence is a present. You’re alive and going to college to make a living for yourself, and that’s a gift that should be celebrated.

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Photo by Shannon Taylor, Asst. TimeOut Editor

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