Spend smarter (and get more out of) this holiday season with these savvy solutions:

Gifts & Greetings

  • Keep expenses and shopping time to a minimum by giving large "family gifts," like a 12-month movie club subscription, a restaurant gift certificate, a family pass to a local attraction or a popular board game, instead of smaller presents for each family member.
  • Those orphan miles from your frequent flier program can help you purchase gifts for friends and family without spending a dime. Not only can you transfer your miles into a jet-setting gift for someone else, you can exchange them for retail and restaurant gift certificates at points.com.
  • Heartfelt homemade gifts are always a solid choice, especially when the activity behind them can be a shared family experience. Instead of spending weekends stressed out at the mall, get the kids to join you for a few days of baking and crafting. Put on some holiday mood music and whip up some hot chocolate to get your little elves in the spirit.
  • Whether sending holiday greetings or following up with a thank-you, FREE e-cards from Care2.com make a big difference all-around. You'll save personal time and expense associated with paper cards and postage while helping to save the planet, since Care2 makes a donation to an environmental nonprofit for every e-card sent. You can even upload your own photos for use.

Travel

  • It pays to pack light! Shop online or via catalog and send gifts direct to your destination to avoid ever-growing airline fees for checked luggage. (Fewer bags also makes it easier for you to choose public transportation over pricey cabs en route). If possible, choose sites that offer free shipping and ask your future hosts to kindly put your unopened packages aside until your arrival.

Decorations

  • Holiday lights can send energy bills skyrocketing, especially when left on overnight. Cut back on costs and simplify your everyday by investing in a simple timer. Set the lights to go on at dusk and off around bedtime — and cross one more "to-do" off of your endless holiday list.

Entertaining

  • Feel awkward about asking guests to bring a dish? Flattery will get you everywhere. Tell your aunt how much everyone would love her "famous" brownies; ask your friend if she wouldn't mind bringing the casserole that was such a "hit" at last year's party. Just be sure to keep careful track of what each person is contributing to avoid duplication and unnecessary expense.

Wardrobe

  • When purchasing party clothing for yourself and your family, think "winter" not "holiday." A Santa sweater might look adorable on your daughter and your husband may get a kick out of that reindeer tie, but consider their impending expiration date. Choose outfits and separates that can be worn well into the New Year. If you're still craving a festive touch, add seasonal flavor with an inexpensive accessory like a pin or tie-clip.

Further perfect your holiday savings plans by visiting Discover EDGE. You'll find more great inspiration and ideas, including smart shopping at the grocery store, 20 gifts under $100 and technology buying tips. Plus, check out expert articles and videos on other topics including financial wellness, budget, shopping, credit and savings.