The holiday season is a time to celebrate, connect, and give back — but it can also be one of the most expensive times of the year. While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of shopping and gift-giving, thoughtful presents don’t have to come with a big price tag. Below are a few creative, low-cost (and no-cost) gift ideas to help you stay on budget this holiday season. 

Acts of Service 

Gifts of time and effort can mean just as much, if not more, than a store-bought present. Think about what skills or time you can offer that would make a difference to someone in your life.  

• Shovel a driveway for a neighbour 

• Babysit your friend’s kids for a day 

• Cook a few freezer meals for the new parents in your life 

• Offer to do the home renovation project that has been on the list (if you are handy!) 

These small gestures can make an impact – and are a way to show you care. 

Handmade & Personalized Gifts 

This one is for the creative soul. Even if you’re not naturally crafty, a personal touch goes a long way. 

• Paint a picture of their favourite place to display at home 

• Make a handmade ornament for the tree 

• Try knitting a scarf or a blanket 

• Create a personalized scrapbook or printed photo book 

• Design a customized family calendar 

• Make a holiday scented sugar scrub 

• Craft a macrame wall hanging 

Local Experiences 

Many holiday community events on PEI are free or low-cost — and they make for great experiences to share with family and friends. 

• Attend a local tree lighting 

• Explore PEI’s Hot Chocolate Trail 

• See the Deck the Halls Christmas Festival 

• Bundle up to watch a Christmas parade  

• Visit craft fairs to support local artisans and purchase unique gifts 

• Take a horse and wagon ride 

Gifts for the Food-Lover 

If you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, your talents can double as the perfect gift. Homemade treats are a delicious way to show you care. 

• Bake Christmas cookies or package a holiday cookie mix in a jar  

• Create jars of homemade hot chocolate mix 

• Make some homemade dog treats for your friends with pets 

• Make personalized spice blends or flavoured oils 

This holiday season, remember that financial wellness doesn’t have to take a back seat to generosity. Staying within your means and being creative with your gifts can help you start the new year on solid financial footing. 

Tip: Think ahead and save your loyalty points from your various points cards to use during the holidays. This can help you save on your Christmas costs! With our Collabria credit card, you can save up your Flex Rewards to redeem for cash, merchandise, gift cards, and more.