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Feeling apprehensive about your Christmas shopping list? We've got a couple game-changers to make your online shopping experience safer, easier and more convenient.
'Tis the season for office parties, carol singing, Christmas movies, and of course, a whole lot of shopping.
Whether you're working through your Christmas list or you're planning the food and drink for parties, it's likely that you will be spending some time shopping online over the next few weeks.
While we might be feeling a bit apprehensive about how much we spend, the folks from
PayPal have brought some game-changers* to help us avoid overspending and maximising our budgets this Christmas.
From a handy browser extension that scans for discounts to going halves with your mates, there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure your Christmas spending is nice (rather than naughty).
1. Start with a budget
PayPal's 2023 Festive Spending Snapshot** found that almost three quarters (74%) of consumers in Ireland overspend on their budgets at Christmas despite their best intentions. So while it might sound simple, setting a spending limit from the get go will mean you stay within a budget without being a Scrooge.
2. Keep track of your spending
Keeping with your budget is easier with the
PayPal app, which allows users to check their transactions and track their spending. By keeping an eye on what you're spending when shopping online, you can get everything you need while staying within budget.
3. Go splitsies with your mates
Planning parties and dinners can be a costly affair, so why not share the cost with your mates?
PayPal* makes this process super easy, you can send money or request money and split the cost of the festivities easily.
4. Shop around for the best deals
Before you impulse-buy, scour the Internet to make sure you're getting the best deal possible. If there are upcoming sales and deals, set a reminder on your phone to ensure you don't miss them. And, when you're at the checkout, use
PayPal for a smooth, convenient and safe purchase experience. After all, with 24/7 fraud detection, you can put your mind at ease as you shop with PayPal.
5. Be creative
PayPal's Festive Spending Snapshot also found that people are being creative when it comes to gifting. From buying preloved or second-hand goods to giving DIY presents, there are a range of ways to come up with thoughtful gifts that won't leave you short.
5. Install Honey on your browser
Honey is a browser extension from PayPal, and trust us, it's a game-changer. At the online checkout, Honey automatically scans and applies relevant coupon codes and discounts, allowing you to save money as you shop.
Budgeting made easy with PayPal! Be it spending online or sending money to loved ones, PayPal puts the joy into Christmas gifting through PayPal at Checkout & peer-to-peer payments. People can also track their spending via the PayPal app. You can learn more at PayPal.com.
* This article includes tips, suggestions, and general information. PayPal recommends that you always do your own research and consider getting independent tax, financial and legal advice before making any important decision.
** PayPal’s 2023 Festive Spending Snapshot surveyed 1,000 consumers in Ireland who celebrate the holidays, conducted by Censuswide in November/December 2023. 
