More Christmas Savings and Sweet Deals

Yes, you’re going to have to put up with Christmas ramblings for a couple more weeks we’re afraid. Actually, what are we apologising for? Christmas is fantastic, and if you what to make it even better, here are a few tips and tricks to help you on your way…

Now, we all know the pressing Christmas issue isn’t the turkey, or the presents, or whether you remembered to send a card to your Aunty in New Zealand. You all know what we’re talking about when we bring up the incredibly important issue of the Novelty Christmas Jumper. They are very much the IN thing right now, and if you haven’t got yours yet, here are the best places to buy your reindeer-themed knitwear. And talking of Christmas-themed clothing, there’s that other small matter of the annual Christmas party and what you’re going to wear so you can dress to impress. In addition to the crucial party dress purchase, we’ve brought you some ideas about shoes and accessories too. You’re very welcome.

Now, this is a money saving blog, after all, so we feel obliged to talk about some ideas for budget gift buying. Perhaps you and the family have decided to set a price limit for your presents this year, or you’re just after a few stocking fillers to top up the gift haul. Whatever you’re budget present needs, here’s a helpful blog to give you a few ideas, and if you want to add the personal touch, then you’ll happy to know you can get pretty much anything personalised these days.

And Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without some in depth discussion about the importance of food and drink - there’s no place for calorie counting here thanks you very much. Now, if you want the PERFECT Christmas dinner, you need to get the details right – that means the best joint of meat, the crispiest roast potatoes and delicious sprouts. Yes, you read that correct. We said DELICIOUS sprouts. It is possible. So if you want top tips, look no further than our guide to brilliant festive scoffing. And what might you need to polish off your indulgence? A Christmas cocktails perhaps? Our guide to seasonal tipples is top notch.

Have you had enough of Christmas yet? We sincerely hope not…

Christmas is almost upon us

We’ve gone all Christmassy over at My Favourite Voucher Codes. It’s okay, we’re officially allowed to now it’s December. So expect all things Santa, baubles, turkey and wrapping paper for the next few weeks – and don’t say you haven’t been warned.

For starters, let’s talk unusual gifts. I think it’s safe to admit that some presents can get a bit samey, year in, year out. Yes, I’m looking at YOU, bubble bath and YOU novelty pair of socks. So what if you want to make an effort this year and give your gift buying a more unusual edge. Well fret not, because we’ve got a few ideas for your perusal. Firstly, if you want to buy a coffee table book for someone, but not exactly the same must-have title that everyone will be buying, then head on down to the Blurb Bookstore – they’ve got a whole heap of superb quality self-published photo books, recipe books, and picture books that many will be itching to get their hands on. If you want to venture beyond the world of books, then have a read of our guide to unusual gift buying and it might help you on the road to being original…

Grandparents sometimes get a bit of a raw deal when it comes to the annual Christmas present, so why not get them something extra special this year? Our helpful grandparent gift blog can help you choose the right gift experience, hobby-themed present or calendar with a difference.

And what’s that other thing you have remember to organise in December? Apart from the online shopping, the hiding of the presents, the wrapping of the presents etc etc. That’s right, it’s the Christmas dinner! Don’t be stuck with the last turkey in the shop and start you preparations right now with our guide to the perfect Christmas dinner. And did you know you can know get additional help in all things foodie with the aid of only your smartphone? The fantastic new mySuperlist app helps you organise shopping lists, check and compare prices and take advantage of exclusive deals. The perfect companion to your Christmas dinner preparations, we think you’ll agree.

Now, where did we put those leftover Christmas crackers from last year…?

How to keep the winter woes at bay

What do we mean by winter woes, you might be asking? Well, whether you’re one of those who loves or loathes the colder months, you can’t tell us that catching a cold isn’t even the slightest bit annoying. Or that having to drag your shopping back from the supermarket in freezing cold temperatures is even remotely tempting. As I write this, there is a storm imminent and I know I’d much rather be sitting here at the kitchen table rather than out there trying to battle my way through the strong winds. So what winter-themed advice can we offer?

First up, if you haven’t caught one already, here’s a few tips on how not to. Yes, we’re talking the sniffles. Winter colds are a right pain in the sinuses, but if you want to reduce your chances of catching the virus, it’s mainly a case of having a bit of common sense rather than spending a fortune. And what about all those warm and hearty winter food essentials that should be lining your shelves? It’s not about spending loads of dosh on posh nosh, but more about smarter shopping.

You may or may not have noticed that half term is upon us. If you have children that is. If you don’t please feel free to skip to the next paragraph, or you still might want to read our half term blog post so you know the places to avoid over the next week (mainly online toy shops).

And let’s talk about the other winter-related activity that you either love or loathe. Yes, the annual compiling of the Christmas shopping list. What in heaven’s name are you going to buy your mum/dad/partner/kids etc etc??? Well, we haven’t got all bases covered just yet, but here are few tips to get you started on your gift buying for daddy dearest.

And don’t forget, you’ve still got a chance to win £250 worth of vouchers for either Marks and Spencers, Cath Kidston or Mint Velvet when you download our excellent money saving app to you browser of choice. It will help with all that online Christmas shopping and will be especially welcomed by those who like to spend time as little as possible on this activity as well as those who like to spend as little money as possible.

Here comes autumn...

…and isn’t it great? We may have been blessed with some slightly higher than average temperatures for the last month, but I think it’s safe to say we’ll all be turning on the central heating in the next week or so. But whether you think this is a good thing or a bad thing, there’s still plenty to look forward to in the next couple of months…

If you’re one of those that does not enjoy the cold in the slightest, we predict what your next move might be… a spot of winter sun, perhaps? If you’re about to start searching for the best late deals, here’s our guide to the potential pitfalls and hidden gems that you need to keep your eyes peeled for.

But while those sunseekers are off seeking sun in foreign climbs, what can we look forward to at home? Everything! Not only do we have Halloween and Bonfire Night treats to scoff, but there’s also the general all-encompassing warm glow that autumn brings. Here’s our guide to all your autumnal advantages, including warm fires, extra reading and telly time and boxsets and baking galore.

If your kids are now happily ensconced in the new school term and you’re spying an opportunity to undertake a bit more healthy exercise, here are a few ways to include health and fitness into your daily routine that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to join a gym. Which is always good news.

While we like to sing the benefits of downloading our money saving app to your browser, there are now a few more fantastic reasons to get our icon onto your toolbar. Not only can it help you save on your online shopping more easily, but now you also have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win £250 worth of vouchers for Marks and Spencer’s, Cath Kidston or Mint Velvet. And just think what floral-themed goodness you could buy with those…

Hobbies, Halloween and...Hamsters

We’re going to go on about autumn again, sorry. Actually, we’re not in the least bit sorry, because autumn is brilliant. Not only do you have an excuse to be lazy and stay indoors, but you also have Halloween and Bonfire Night to look forward to, and we all know what these two celebrations mean – that’s right, sweets and food! So here are a few more autumnal tips and tricks for you to peruse…

Of course, reading can be enjoyed throughout the year, whatever the weather – sitting under a tree in the park with your favourite paperback, or sunning yourself on the beach with your eReader in hand. But there’s nothing quite like curling up in front of an open fire (or radiator if you don’t have one) with a lovely absorbing, engaging book. So to celebrate the staying in and the reading, here’s our guide on how to enjoy books again, as well as how to save a bit of money on them.

Oh yes, Halloween! Not only have we given you cupcakes in the past, but we’re now here to give you costume ideas. Whether you want to save some money by making your own, or save some money when buying your own, there’s no shortage of Halloween voucher codes to take advantage of. So get in early and plan your family’s spooky outfits so they’re scary to the max.

Filling your weekends with family activities might be slightly problematic when the rain is pouring down, so take up some crafty craft pastimes to keep yourself and the kids entertained. Here are a few ideas for autumnal-themed craft activities that won’t break the bank and will result in a bit more clutter in your home. But we don’t mind clutter when the children are otherwise occupied.

Ok, this one’s not completely autumn-related, but no less important and useful. If you have a pet, you might appreciate the fact that even the smallest hamster costs a bit of money to keep happy. So have you thought about purchasing your pet goods online? You might be able to save yourself a few quid and a bit of hassle. Here’s a few ideas on where to start saving on your small furry animal luxuries and essentials.

Our money saving app is ALWAYS worth installing on your browser, but now more than ever, because as well as helping you save with a large selection of online retailers, you can also enter a draw to win £250 worth of Marks and Spencer’s vouchers. Everyone’s a winner then. But obviously the person who wins the vouchers is a bit more a of winner…

More wonderful wintry tips and tricks

Never say we don’t like the colder months. And never say we don’t give you enough ideas to aid your enjoyment of them. You can keep your summer, with all of its sunburn, mosquito bites and sweat patches. Give us a hot steamed pudding and an open fire any day. But how do you occupy your free time now that the opportunities to go outside are slightly more limited than a few weeks ago? Ok, let’s face it, in the UK, going outside always carries a bit of a risk, so you can use some of these lifestyle and shopping tips all year round…

The nights are drawing in, and if you have trouble getting your 8 hours sleep each night, now might be the time to solve that problem. Relax your mind as well as your body and take some active measures to improve your much-needed night time rest. Our blog has a selection of ideas to get you on the road to restful sleep, from ear-plugs to bedroom makeovers.

Talking of makeovers, many people take the opportunity that comes with the slightly less-humid weather to do a spot of DIY. Upgrade or upcycle your furniture, pick out a couple of choice artwork prints, or just stick a new lick of paint on your walls. Here are some money-saving ideas to give you a bit of home inspiration.

The countdown to Christmas has begun, so those on a budget (that’s most of us then) had better get their planning hats on. Christmas isn’t all about the big spends you know - sometimes a little says a lot more. Check our selection of gift ideas for not only under £10, but also under £5. And it’s not just pictures of gift cards.

And no autumnal savings and lifestyle would be complete without a mention of Halloween. Am I right? So get your spook on with this guide on how to make Halloween cupcakes. Just save some for the actual night in question, rather than scoff the lot beforehand.

We can’t leave without mentioning this fantastic Marks and Spencer’s giveaway. If you download our money saving app to your browser, you automatically get entered into a draw to win £250 worth of Marks and Spencer’s vouchers. Think of all the winter thermals you could buy with that…