THE FESTIVE season has well and truly arrived which for many people means one thing – the frustration of trying to find the perfect Secret Santa pressie.
Of course, there are the ”safe” choices, such as snapping up a last-minute candle, a bottle of mulled wine and a pair of cosy socks to keep the feet toasty as the temperatures are beginning to drop.
However, if you want to surprise your colleague or a pal with something less basic whilst also not forking out a fortune, fear not – as we’ve got you covered.
This is because one thrifty shopper, only known as @That shopping girly on TikTok, has put together an extensive list of purse-friendly gifts that won’t break the budget.
Whether you’re after some cute make-up bits or homeware essentials, the money-smart TikTok user has found it all.
One of the bargain buys the brunette beauty stumbled across whilst browsing around Marks & Spencer was an adorable tote bag with a cute teddy bear print.
The find, retailing for just a fiver, is sure to come in handy for anyone – whether you’re running errands, going to the gym or need a small bag for travelling.
The major supermarket has also added ”cute coasters” to its ever-growing collection – the living and kitchen room must-have features initials and sells for £5.
If you’re on the lookout for a pressie for a foodie, M&S also sells scrumptious cookies in a gorgeous red letterbox that can then be reused as a home decor for £5.
Meanwhile, rival B&M is the place to be if you’re looking for a glass mug that’s perfect for all the coffee and tea lovers – the retailer offers a selection of mugs with initials that are going for a mere £3.
Not your cup of tea? Pop into their beauty aisle, where you can find So…? Unique shower gel and lotion set of four mini products for £4.99.
Another high street favourite that has fabulous gifts for Secret Santa is Boots, where the shopper found an eyeshadow stick trio by the brand 17 for £5, as well as lip duo by the same brand which comes with a lippy and a lip gloss, also a fiver.
”Obsessed with this for a glossy red lip look,” said the thrifty woman who also vouched for the affordable brand and said their products are ”amazing”.
The budget-friendly brand has also launched ”lots of cute eyeshadow palettes” for less than £5 – not only are the colours stunning but the mini make-up essentials are easy to throw in your purse when you head out.
If you need to find something for beauty lovers, another store worth popping into is Home Bargains.
According to the woman, the popular retailer has a huge selection of head band and wrist band sets for affordable prices under £5.
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the amount of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not organise a Secret Santa between your inner circles so you’re not having to buy multiple presents.
Plan ahead – if you’ve got the stamina and budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for the following year in the January sales.
Make sure you shop around for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you’re not forking out more than you should though.
Buy in Boxing Day sales – some retailers start their main Christmas sales early so you can actually snap up a bargain before December 25.
Delivery may cost you a bit more, but it can be worth it if the savings are decent.
Shop via outlet stores – you can save loads of money shopping via outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually any wear and tear is minor.
Meanwhile, if you’re on a mission to surprise a fashionista TK Maxx is your best bet – the cash-savvy shopper claimed the discount retailer ”has so many cute earrings for £5”.
One pair that she stumbled across was an adorable duo of golden bows – which are sure to elevate any party season outfit on the cheap.
The same retailer, which has over 300 stores across the UK, also offers cute hairclips for £4.99 – and these always come in handy when doing you’re make-up or skincare routine.
”Shocked at how many cute bits I found under a fiver,” the thrifty high street shopper wrote in the caption.
