Christmas is in 50 days (yes, really). Here's how to get organized

Christmas is 50 days away, which means you've only got one more paycheck to go before the big day arrives. But don't worry, if you start early, you'll be able to relax when the festivities actually begin.

So, instead of panicking at the last minute, make sure you get everything you need now, especially when prices start to rise.

To help you with this, we have created a handy guide to help you think about the things you probably haven't thought about yet.

Financial Advisor Makala Green and James Andrews, senior finance editor at money.co.uk, have shared their top tips for a stress-free Christmas (yes, it's possible). Here are the things you should do:

Create a Christmas budget

Green recommends listing the names of everyone who needs a gift. If you're struggling financially, try to make this as easy as possible by creating a budget. Your loved ones would much rather you be comfortable with your financial situation than spend money you don't have. It's OK to be honest about what you can afford.

Create a Christmas menu to calculate food costs and stick to it. If you haven't booked any shopping online (and don't want to shop in person), you need to do that as soon as possible.

You can also note down other festive costs such as decorations, wrapping paper, etc.

Plan your Christmas shopping

You don't want the cost of next day delivery to add up if you wait too close to the big day (plus, items might sell out), so order and start shopping now.

And if you find that your Christmas budget is tighter this year, you may need to prioritize your shopping. Try to decide what is most important to you at Christmas time – what are your must-have items? Your Christmas can still be a wonderful time even if you eat a little less. Maybe buy less alcohol than you normally would? Or recycle last year's Christmas decorations?

Plan your shopping days

There are still seven weekends until Christmas, so if you're shopping in person, try to do it as early as possible. If you're more of an online shopper, keep an eye out for those flash sales.

Andrews from money.co.uk advises keeping this data in mind.

He says: “The easiest way to grab a bargain is to start shopping early. Many stores announce their Black Friday and Cyber ​​Monday deals in advance, so if you plan ahead you can be sure you're taking advantage of the biggest deals.

“If you're tight on cash at the end of the month and don't have enough to take advantage of Black Friday deals, don't worry. Several retailers offer big discounts just before Christmas to get rid of their unsold stock, so if you hold out, you may still be able to get a bargain.”

Check coupon codes and newsletter discounts

Take advantage of the resources you already have at your disposal. There are plenty of deals and gems online (you can even use a free browser to find the cheapest deals).

Andrews adds: “Before you even start your Christmas shopping, it’s a good idea to scour the internet for discount codes that can help you reduce the price of your purchases.

“Some major retailers will offer you 5-15% off your first purchase if you subscribe to their email newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time.

“Alternatively, if you're thinking about switching your mobile operator, bank account or credit card, some brands will offer you gift cards, discount codes or cashback as an incentive to switch.

“Even if you're not a new customer, you may be eligible for some bonus programs, so it's always worth shopping around before you start spending money.”

Capitalize on free gifts lying around

What did you do with the gift cards from your birthday or last Christmas? If you haven't used them up yet, now is your chance.

Find all the cards, coupons and vouchers (don't forget some are in the app) and use them all before they expire.

Don’t be seduced by “buy now, pay later” programs.

It's easy to get sucked into the world of pay later programs, but it can come at a cost. Andrews advises against using them.

He says: “Anyone who shops online is probably familiar with Buy Now Pay Later schemes. Shoppers can be lured with the promise of no interest, no fees and no late fees, but what looks like a one-stop solution can plunge you into deep debt.

“However, if you spread your purchases over several weeks and potentially use a number of BNPL providers, it can become more difficult to keep track of your cash.

“It's important that you read the terms and conditions of any service you sign up for, especially if you're going to get into debt. If you're not sure you can repay your expenses, you should stay away from buy-it-now payment models.”

Get creative for Christmas

Green adds that Christmas doesn't have to be expensive. Be creative with your gift choices and try making your own to save money. Don't forget that there are still seven weekends until the big day. Why not tackle a project that will be finished by Christmas? Making soap, pressing flowers and putting them in a frame, creating a collage of your favorite memories – all of these are wonderful gifts that will last a long time.

Just start as soon as possible.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost UK and has been updated.

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