What parents are sacrificing to buy everything on Santa’s wish list

Many parents’ Christmas wish is to give their children the best of everything – even if that means making sacrifices for themselves.

In fact, new research shows that almost half of parents (46%) say they will prioritize their children’s Christmas experience over all other areas of household spending this year. and study by thinkmoney found that almost a third (29%) of parents say they would socialize less to cover the costs, while 27% would sacrifice their own behavior and 22% would sacrifice trips or weekends away.

Parents are giving up staying out at nights (35%), and adults are not buying gifts (31%) and new clothes (26%), meaning they will save an average of £132 this Christmas.

But it’s not just treats and luxuries that are being put on the backburner – even the basics aren’t off limits, with one in 10 parents (9%) saying they would reduce their food storage or heating to ensure the big day still delivers.

Wicks comments, “Parents are trying to give their children the kind of Christmas they remember from childhood, but they are doing so under completely different economic circumstances.” LaytonA consumer expert at ThinkMoney.

“You can’t explain inflation or energy bills to a six-year-old who just wants Santa To get the same toys their friends are talking about. But what’s really amazing is how much people are willing to sacrifice to make it happen; Nights out, throwing parties, even the warmth of the house – and that’s coming from love, not indulgence.”

and Jasmine Birtles, founder of financial advice website moneymagpieSays: “It’s very easy this year to be honest with friends, family and even children about how much you can all spend on Christmas. If everyone is struggling financially then the first thing they should do is let others know that Christmas may be a little smaller this year.

“Most people would agree and be relieved to hear that they won’t have to go crazy with gifts etc this year.”

According to the research, almost three-quarters of parents (72%) dread the sight of Christmas lists, which include smartphones (28%), game consoles (26%), premium tech gadgets like tablets and smartwatches (25%), and designer trainers (21%).

More than two in five parents (43%) say they feel pressure to spend more on Christmas, and Layton advises: “The challenge is to strike a balance. You can protect the magic without breaking yourself in the process. Be honest up front about limits, look for second-hand or refurbished options, and set expectations that fit your reality, not your social media highlight reel. Children “You don’t remember the receipt, you remember the feeling.”

To help parents avoid making sacrifices at Christmas, experts suggest they…

drown out the noise

Don’t listen to what other people are spending on Christmas. “Social media has created a whole new world of ways for you to spend, from matching pajamas to Christmas Eve boxes, but you don’t have to do every single thing,” Leighton emphasizes. “Instagram ‘likes’ don’t add up to a perfect Christmas, and there will be a lot behind the post you won’t see.”

Center on a big gift

Birtles suggests telling kids there isn’t much extra cash lying around, but they may have a big gift. “Ask them what they want – give them a budget and let them know what kinds of things you can get. Then once you know that one big one you can look for additional smaller gifts.”

Save when you shopUsing Supermarket Rewards Points, says Birtles tesco clubcard Or NectarCan help pay for gifts or food. She says it’s also worth checking out the apps too good to go Or adulteration For discounted or free festival meals.

And Leighton says it’s a good idea to add savings to your normal shopping habits by using cashback sites Quidco And topcashbackWhich gives you a small return on most online purchases. She adds: “Voucher codes often work as well as cashback – it’s always worth a quick search before purchasing.”

Use community support

Many communities across the UK run toy swaps, Christmas fairs, or community gift drives before December, and Birtles suggests: “Check local Facebook groups, community centers and libraries – they often list events where you can buy new toys, decorations and clothes for almost free or for very little.

“Don’t be afraid to ask – these schemes exist specifically for families who need support.”

swap and downshift

When it comes to Christmas staples like crisps, chocolate or cheeseboards, supermarkets’ own brands often top blind taste tests for a fraction of the price, explains Layton. “A good rule of thumb is to go one level lower than your usual brand for each item and see if anyone in the house notices. If they don’t, that’s a quiet win. You don’t have to spend big to keep a festive table looking presentable.”

She says it’s the same for decorations and stocking fillers — mix one or two ‘hero’ items with inexpensive swaps. “The tree looks just as good with budget accessories once the lights are on,” she says.

Focus on experiences, not expenses

Birtles emphasizes that children value time and attention far more than expensive gifts, so instead of having parents give away their things, it’s a good idea to create small but special traditions, especially for young children.

She suggests movie night with homemade popcorn, a trip to see local Christmas lights, or a hot chocolate and pajama evening, and says: “These moments feel magical without spending a dime.

“If older children understand the situation, involve them in the challenge of finding free fun; this teaches resourcefulness and gratitude. It doesn’t have to be expensive to make Christmas memorable – it just needs warmth, caring and togetherness.”

Avoid delivery costsDelivery costs add up quickly, and Leighton suggests choosing Click and Collect from supermarkets or high-street chains to save on postage, and avoid the impulse purchases that come with scrolling for free delivery add-ons. Choose a store that’s on your normal route and you’ll save time and gas, she says.

“There’s a lot of pressure to make Christmas perfect, but kids don’t really care about brand names or matching pajamas as much as they care that you’re there,” she insists.

“The magic isn’t in the money, it’s in the memories. Adopt tricks that stretch your budget further, and abandon the idea that spending more equals doing it better. You’re not cutting corners; you’re just cutting out the parts that don’t matter.”