Hey Reader,

If you’re feeling a little late to the game, you’re not alone.

Most of us aren’t “planning ahead” anymore. We’re finishing shopping, dealing with shipping cutoffs, and hoping January doesn’t come with too much credit-card regret.

The good news: there are still a few last-minute ways to save real money on Christmas, even if you’ve already bought some gifts.

Here are the ones that actually still work:

1. Cancel or pause quiet subscriptions. This is the fastest win. Every year, I find at least one $10–$20 subscription I forgot about. Canceling just one or two can instantly free up gift or travel money.
2. Switch to digital or instant gifts. Digital gift cards, audiobooks, subscriptions, and online classes skip rush shipping and panic spending. No boxes, no fees, no stress.
3. Get cashback on purchases you’re already making. If you’re buying gifts anyway, don’t leave money on the table. Cashback apps and browser extensions still work on last-minute orders — including digital purchases.
4. Reign in stocking stuffers. Stockings are where budgets quietly explode. One useful or consumable item beats five novelty things no one remembers by New Year’s.
5. Delay what doesn’t need to be opened on Christmas morning. Clothes, home stuff, and accessories are often cheaper after December 25. A simple note that says “this is coming after the holidays” can save more than you’d think.
6. Ignore “last chance” marketing. Urgency is dialed up this week. If it wasn’t on your list before, it probably won’t feel essential later.

And if money is tight and you’re thinking about offsetting some of the cost, there are still legitimate ways to earn a little extra:

• ​17 Festive Ways to Make Extra Money for Christmas ​
• ​10 Seasonal Jobs Hiring at $15 per Hour or More​

If your goal is to enjoy Christmas without blowing up your budget, these might help too:

• ​5 Cheery Ways to Enjoy Christmas on a Budget ​
• ​10 Worst Christmas Gifts People Need to Stop Buying​

Just a reminder: Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. Most people remember time, traditions, and how they felt — not how much was spent.

– The DollarSprout Team