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Everyone knows that a dollar doesn’t go as far as it used to, especially in the current market. It is becoming difficult to find ways to save money. If you are like many people you will all ready be following a money management plan or strict budget. But how do you save money on things like gifts? You want a gift to be a reflection of your feelings for the person you bought it for, but you also have to think about your budget.

There are quite a few ways to stick to a money management plan while also being a bargain hunter. Apart from shopping actively all year; browsing clearance racks and discount stores and putting gifts to the side for a later date, clever gift-givers will also use creativity.

Give time as a gift: make a book of coupons for chores like lawn mowing, babysitting or laundry day. Provide “vouchers” for a lunch date, or coffee at a local bakery. Set aside the funds for what you are promising and you will be able to stick to your money management plan when the gift is “redeemed”.

Re-gift: Have something that you received as a gift but never used? Look at it creatively to see if it is an appropriate item for a friend or family member. But be careful and discreet when re-gifting, you don’t want to offend the original giver. Instead of letting that set of candles your sister gave you sit and gather dust, why not add them to an inexpensive basket along with some bath salts, and give a friend a mini-spa?

Think outside the box: a gift does not have to come wrapped up with a bow. Make an annual donation to a charity in honor of a special friend or family member. This is also a great idea when teaching money management skills to a child or young person, and will educate them about the true value and meaning of a gift.