Getting Organised Early for Christmas

Christmas might still feel like a long way away, but now’s a great time to start getting organised. Getting organised early for Christmas can help take some of the pressure off when the season actually starts. This way, you can spread out the jobs, avoid the last-minute rush and make more room to enjoy the festive season when it arrives.

Start with a simple list

Before you start buying or planning, write down everything you need to think about. Gifts, food, events, travel, childcare, school activities and family commitments can all go on the list. Getting it out of your head and onto paper can make everything feel more manageable.

Set a Christmas budget

Christmas expenses can add up super quickly, so decide what you can comfortably spend before you start shopping. Make a list of the people you need to buy for and set an amount for each. Remember to include things like food, decorations, travel and activities.

Shop gradually

If you know what you’re looking for, spreading purchases over several weeks can make the cost and effort feel more manageable. Make sure to keep track of what you’ve bought so you don’t accidentally double up.

Thrift stores and op shops are great places to find gifts at a lower cost. Second-hand places are full of hidden treasures for those on a budget. You could also consider making a gift yourself - one of the benefits of getting ready this early means you have time to DIY something personalised and thoughtful. A gift doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful.

Plan the food

You don’t need to plan Christmas lunch in October, but you can start thinking about what your family will need over the holidays. Make a list of favourite meals, check what you already have in the pantry and think about what can be bought or prepared ahead of time.

Book what you can

If you’re travelling, visiting family, or need childcare over the holidays, October is a good time to check dates and make arrangements. Getting these details sorted early can take a big task off your to-do list. Did you know that the Parent Pathways program may be able to help you out with childcare placement assistance? Ask your Employment Plus mentor for more information or call us on 136 123.

Leave room for the unexpected

Even the best plans can fall apart, especially with kids! Give yourself some flexibility and remember that Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect to be special. The goal isn’t to plan every minute but to make the busy parts of the season feel a little easier.

Most importantly, don’t feel like you have to do everything at once. The reason for starting this early is so that everything isn’t one big stress. Choose one small task this week, then another next week. This is all about making things a little easier on yourself. Some preparation now means less rushing later, giving you more time to focus on enjoying the holiday season with the people you love.

Looking for practical support?

It can be hard to feel like celebrating when finances are tight. If you are facing financial difficulties, having issues with stable housing, or don’t know how you’ll be able to afford food or presents this Christmas, The Salvation Army may be able to support you with food, toys, gifts, vouchers and more.

Click here for more information on how we can support you through the holiday season.