Be the best at budgeting
A survey of British households last year found that we spend an average £106 on going out over Christmas, £172 on festive food and drink at home, and £76 on Christmas-themed experiences.
To keep track on your spending over the festive season, set yourself a budget. List all your income you receive and your expected outgoings, like rent, credit card payments and household bills. Our budget planner could help you do this. What you have left will be the money you have to spend.
To work out whether it’s enough, look at your spending last December. Iona Bain, personal finance writer and founder of the Young Money Blog, says: “Think about whether you had enough money last year, where you overspent and where the pinch points came, like your work Christmas party.
Add up your spending in each category: food, drink, travel, presents, decorations and entertainment". she suggests.
“Don’t forget to include any new commitments this year – maybe you’re hosting Christmas dinner for the first time, for example. And don’t forget to put money aside for New Year’s Eve. Then add it all up to get your magic number and see whether you can afford the same level of spending this year.”
You can view monthly statements and see a breakdown of your spending by category, using the Barclays app. You’ll be able to see how you’re spending compared to before, where you spend the most money and more. Just tap ‘Spending’ in your app. You’ll be able to see your spending patterns for up to two years earlier.
Terms and conditions apply. You must have a current account with us, be aged 16 or over and have a mobile number to use the Barclays app.