Holiday shopping can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. Between the massive crowds, time constraints and fears of over-spending, holidays shopping definitely takes a toll, which is why it’s important to have a game plan.
With a little careful planning, you can still shop the sales and benefit from the amazing deals, just be careful to not overspend! That’s why I’ve decided to share my top tips to help you stay on budget and benefit from a few added perks in the process.
Here are 6 tips to get the most bang for your buck out of holiday shopping with RBC Rewards!
Make a list (naughty, nice, it’s your call, really) and check it twice!
Any successful holiday shopping venture requires careful financial planning. Identify who you’re buying for and what kind of gift you want to give each person on your list. While you may not know exactly what you’re going to get for your loved ones in advance, preparing a basic checklist will help to prevent you from going overboard when it’s time to get cracking.
Set a budget
Now that you have a list, it’s time to decide how much you can afford to spend. How much money do you feel can be justified? I always stick to a “can I pay off the balance before my credit card billing date?” rule, so not to incur interest fees. Of all the things that you want to bring with you into the new year, debt shouldn’t be one of them.
Wanna team up with others to save money? Consider going in on gifts with a group or set spending limits for holiday gifts between family and friends.
Piggyback on existing specials
Stores and brands that offer great deals that can be an excellent way to get the most from your holiday shopping experience. Do some research before you start shopping to see who’s offering the best deals on the items so you can avoid paying full price.
E-commerce + Holidays = What a time to buy online!
Let’s put it this way: the fewer bags you have to schlep around, the better. Right? Also, most e-stores offer free shipping over a certain value spent, plus free shipping on returns! Just choose wisely and focus on stores that allow returns in store if there are a few nearby.
Double dip your points – or triple!
If you use a rewards credit card, don’t settle for earning the standard amount of points on each purchase. Understand which bonus point opportunities or bonus offers exist (whether in store or online) and take advantage of them when shopping.
For example, this holiday season, RBC Rewards is teaming up with companies like Apple, so you can earn more points just by using your RBC Rewards credit card.
In fact, if you’re shopping online at the Apple Store, be sure to visit RBC Rewards.com – first, sign-in and opt-in to earn 3X points when you pay with your RBC Rewards credit card!
Choose the right credit card – preferably one with REWARDS
Earn more reward points every time you use your card! To earn the most rewards this holiday, try putting all, or most, of your holiday purchases on one rewards card.
Shopping at a preferred RBC partner like Saks or Apple? Make sure you use your rewards card to accelerate your earning potential.
- 2X points anytime you pay for an Uber or order UberEATS
- 2X points when you book a stay at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- 2X points when you shop in store at Canadian Saks Fifth Avenue (CF Toronto Eaton Centre or CF Sherway Gardens locations)
Okay, looks like you’re all set! Go on, make us proud, and may the shopping force be with you.
** Offers only available for Saks between November 24, 2016, and December 31, 2016, Apple Canada until December 31, 2016.
This post is sponsored by RBC Rewards. All expressed opinions and experiences are my own words.