Festive budget calculator

Gift preferences by country

Food, décor and wrapping costs

Manage festive gifting like a pro

• Set spending limits and organize a Secret Santa to minimize the number of gifts.
• Opt for DIY gifts like crafts or baked goods
• Thrift for gifts: Explore thrift stores for unique and budget-friendly options, and consider using thrifted items for décor and wrapping, such as reusable fabric.
• Regifting and group gifts can further economize your spending.
• Communicate budget constraints clearly to align expectations with reality.
• Plan and budget: Use the N26 Festive Finance Calculator to ensure you stay within financial limits. These approaches ensure meaningful gifting while keeping track of spending and promoting sustainability.

Wrap it up, cost effectively

• Instead of buying single-use wrapping paper or gift bags, wrap gifts in reusable packaging like tea towels (for the foodies), pillowcases, fabric, old scarves, shoeboxes and enhance the presentation with a simple bow for a unique, clean aesthetic.
• Alternatively, opt for other recyclable options like newspapers, magazines, or brown kraft paper, and personalize them with stamps, drawings, or ribbons you already own.
• Or you can even skip traditional wrapping and engage recipients with a gift-revealing scavenger hunt or game, making the gift-giving experience both memorable and environmentally conscious.

Entertaining on a budget can be fun

• Simplify the décor or upcycle some thrifted items to match a festive theme when you are hosting friends and loved ones.
• Embrace DIY decorations, repurpose last year’s decorations in new ways and incorporate nature-inspired elements to add a fresh touch.
• Instead of carrying all the food costs for get-togethers, ask your friends and family to bring dishes and have a potluck party. This way, everyone plays a part in the party, and you can explore new dishes while spending time with them.