Why you need to start prepping for Christmas NOW according to one Aussie dad

An Australian man has revealed how he bagged hundreds of dollars worth of Christmas gifts for free by using supermarket rewards schemes.

James Wragg, 37, from Queensland, joined Woolworth’s Everyday Rewards program in 2008, and saves for Christmas throughout the year.

Customers who sign up to the Everyday Rewards scheme get points every time they shop, with those using the Bank of Christmas option only able to cash their points in December.

‘The last couple of years I have saved an average of $200-$300 on grocery shopping,’ James told Daily Mail Australia.

James Wragg, 37, from Queensland, joined Woolworth’s Everyday Rewards program in 2008, and saves for Christmas throughout the year

‘Last year I also converted my savings into a phone purchase from BIG W that would have cost $549, but only cost $4 for postage thanks to the Everyday Rewards points I accumulated over a six month period.’

James also puts cash away every month to make sure he has enough money in time for December.

‘I would recommend beginning to save at least six months out from Christmas, especially for those bigger families – the sooner the better!

‘I have been saving for Christmas since joining the Everyday Rewards program in 2008, as my goal is to save less in the later months of the year. 

‘It makes it easier long term on the wallet, with budgeting and of course on my bank account if I ensure I look for ways to save using points systems like Bank For Christmas,’ he added.

‘I start fresh every year, and try to put away $50 to $100 each week. The key is to stay consistent with your savings over a decent period of time to give yourself the best end of year shop possible.’ 

Customers who sign up to the Everyday Rewards scheme get points every time they shop, with those using the Bank of Christmas option only able to cash their points in December (stock image)

New research unveiled by Everyday Rewards to celebrate the launch of Bank for Christmas shows 75 per cent of the nation to be more excited than usual to celebrate silly season this year following two Covid Christmases. 

Around one in five Australians have already started prepping for Christmas, and almost half have started saving money, with $40million already banked by Everyday Rewards customers and more than 600,000 Everyday Rewards members who are taking advantage of the program’s ‘Bank For Christmas.’ 

James said that the best way to prep for Christmas is to start early.  

‘Plain and simple – get it sorted early. Having set goals and targets for your savings well ahead of the silly season will help you plan out all your spending during the busier months. 

James (pictured) said that the best way to prep for Christmas is to start early

James (pictured) said that the best way to prep for Christmas is to start early

‘Using saving promotions such as Everyday Rewards Bank for Christmas will help you get the most out of saving in advance. 

‘Another great tip is to keep an eye out for online sales earlier in the year so you’re not breaking your bank closer to the big day – and make sure you’re signed up to mailing lists like Woolies.

‘I don’t buy a lot of presents, mostly gift vouchers for my mum and some close friends – I’m a huge advocate of “it’s the thought that counts”. Allowing your friends and family the freedom of choice keeps your pockets fuller and your budget intact – everyone is happy that way!  

James top tips for prepping for Christmas 

  • Don’t spend more than your budget allows
  • A gift card is still a gift
  • Planning your shopping on a physical list 
  • Get it sorted early 
  • Don’t lose your head

‘Gift cards are a great way to let the receiver know you’re thinking of them, but also allows them the freedom to choose for themselves. 

‘These are especially great for your pickier friends and family, no one likes seeing a returned present you spent time and effort on. The best part here is the predetermined pricing – you can’t go over budget with a set amount! 

‘There are often points promotions for gift card transactions if you are an Everyday Rewards member, so keep an eye out for those!’

And just like Santa, James says to ‘check your list twice’ when Christmas shopping.  

‘Planning your shopping on a physical list will help you out in the long term. 

‘It’s all good and well to add items to your cart online, but having an old school Christmas list you can refer back to will keep you straight. 

‘Nothing better than the ol’ faithful pen and paper, or the excitement you get ticking items off your list as you go on. 

And just like Santa, James says to 'check your list twice' when Christmas shopping (stock image)

And just like Santa, James says to ‘check your list twice’ when Christmas shopping (stock image)

‘And don’t spend more than your budget allows. Map out what you want to buy prior to actually spending any money. 

‘You can do this through looking at the relevant websites you need, or going in store and creating a list. Having an idea of your budget in advance will help you keep your Christmas spending under wraps (pun intended).

Finally, James says to not lose your head.

‘Remain calm, take deep breaths and focus on your tasks as needed. 

‘If you make the mistake of starting your shopping late and braving the shopping frenzy that is the week before Christmas, bring some headphones to block out the chaos. 

‘Keep your list in hand and your budget in front of mind – don’t let yourself get dragged into the festive mess that is your local shopping centre on Chrissy Eve!’

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Read more at DailyMail.co.uk