Do not be afraid to re-gift. I know that many people look down on the notion of passing off gifts that you have received to another person, but I think that's hogwash. Nobody's feelings are going to get hurt if you wrap up a sweater that your great aunt Prudence got you. Chances are, they aren't going to know your great aunt Prudence. Just make sure that nobody is going to find out, and you're good to go. This also means don't blab around about how you re-gifted your friend/family member. Let everybody think that you bought it. It makes you look better!

Look out for those “special deals.” You know that ones that I'm talking about. Those “buy one, get one free” deals. Your co-worker doesn't need another pair of tube socks? Who cares? (Sorry, Jonas!) By taking advantage of these deals, you're essentially picking up two presents for the price of one. There are other deals like this, too! You know the ones that I'm talking about. “Buy two, get one 50% off!” or “50% off entire purchase if you buy 4!” If they don't like it, they can always re-gift. And thus, a vicious cycle is born.

Switch the price tags when the vendor isn't looking. I know that this isn't the most ethical approach to Christmas shopping, but hey, as consumers on a budget, this could save you loads! If you're in a smaller shop such as Fred's Holiday Store, they may notice that something is up; try to stick to the larger stores with more expensive things. This works especially well on those few hectic days leading up to Christmas.

Never forget to haggle! I know that sometimes it can be rather frustrating to try to talk down the price of your order with shop vendors. Some of them are really stubborn, unreasonable, and quite frankly, stingy (I'm looking at you, Naut Fur You). Do it anyway. Almost always they will get exhausted from arguing with you, and will likely give in a little bit. Don't try to too much, though; I have been personally kicked out of stores before. It's never fun. I still have to Polyjuice to get into Madam Malkins...

Bust out those coupons! Lately coupons have been all over the Muggle news because of how well they are able to manipulate their way through the checkout line... we can do that too! There are various places in which you can clip out coupons (hint: The Daily Prophet) and get some amazing deals at stores. If you're smart enough, you may just walk away with that beautiful oak wizard chess set for free! I'll admit, this way is a little bit time consuming... but the results can be worth it!