10 ways to boost your bank balance in the run-up to Christmas

Christmas is around the corner, and Nick Daws is here to give a few useful tips to boost your bank account ahead of the holiday season.

As Christmas approaches, many of us are feeling the pinch, with the cost of gifts, food and festivities adding up. And that’s before you even factor in the rising cost of living, tax increases, benefit cuts, and so on.

Fortunately there are many ways to boost your income in the weeks leading up to the big day.

Whether you’re looking to save for gifts, pay off bills or simply enjoy a more relaxed holiday season, here are some ideas to help you generate extra cash.

1. Take on seasonal work

One of the most straightforward ways to earn extra money is taking on seasonal work. 

Many retailers, supermarkets and delivery services hire additional staff to cope with the Christmas rush. These roles often include flexible hours, making them suitable for those who already have a full-time job or other commitments. 

Retail work: High street shops, supermarkets, and shopping centres are always on the lookout for extra hands during the festive period. Roles might include working on the shop floor, stock replenishment or assisting with customer service.

Warehouse and delivery jobs: With the surge in online shopping, companies like Amazon, Royal Mail and other courier services ramp up their staffing. Positions in warehouses and delivery driving are in high demand and can pay well, especially if you’re willing to work unsociable hours.

Hospitality and events: Pubs, restaurants and event venues also require additional staff during the Christmas period. If you’re good with people and enjoy a lively atmosphere, these roles can be both fun and financially rewarding.

• Be aware that competition for seasonal work can be fierce, so start applying as early as possible, and ensure you have plenty of irons in the fire.

2. Sell unwanted items on eBay

Another great way to raise funds is by decluttering your home and selling unwanted items online. eBay is a popular platform and with millions of users it’s an excellent place to turn your unused belongings into cash.

Clothing and accessories: If you have clothes that you no longer wear, especially branded or designer items, these can sell well on eBay and similar sites. Take clear photos, write detailed descriptions, and be honest about the condition to attract buyers.

Electronics and gadgets: Old phones, tablets, or gaming consoles that are gathering dust could fetch a good price. Just be sure to wipe all personal data before selling. For more tips, see my recent Mouthy Money article.

Toys and games: With Christmas approaching, parents are often on the lookout for bargains. If your children have outgrown their toys or games, now is the perfect time to sell them.

Books, DVDs and collectibles: Niche items like collector’s editions or rare finds can attract considerable interest. But even commonplace products can sell well if you bundle them together.

3. Rent out a spare room or parking space

If you have a spare room in your home, consider renting it out on a short-term basis through platforms like Airbnb. With people travelling to visit family during the festive season, there’s often a high demand for accommodation. If you live in a city or near a popular attraction, this can be a particularly lucrative option.

Similarly, if you have a parking space you’re not using, you could rent it out via a website such as JustPark (as discussed in this article). This is especially profitable if you live near a city centre, train station or sports/entertainment venue where parking is limited.

4. Take online surveys and participate in market research

While not a huge money-maker, taking online surveys or participating in market research can be an easy and enjoyable way to make a bit of extra cash in the run-up to Christmas.

Sites such as Swagbucks, Prolific, and YouGov reward you for giving your opinion on various topics (as discussed in this recent article on Mouthy Money).

Some market research companies (e.g. People for Research) also look for participants for focus groups or product testing, which can pay quite well for a few hours of your time.

5. Offer freelance services

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, web development or social media management, consider offering your services on a freelance basis.

Websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour allow you to advertise your skills and connect with potential clients. This option is flexible, allowing you to work as much or as little as you like, fitting around your schedule.

6. Do Christmas crafting and baking

If you’re crafty or enjoy baking, you could create handmade Christmas decorations, cards or baked goods to sell at local markets or online.

There’s a strong demand for unique, handmade items during the festive season. Platforms like Etsy can help you reach a wider audience.

7. Offer pet sitting or dog walking

If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or dog walking can be a fun way to earn extra money.

Many people travel during the holiday season and need someone to look after their animals. Platforms such as Rover or Pawshake make it easy to find clients in your area.

8. Use cashback and reward apps

While it’s not exactly an extra income stream, using cashback and reward apps like TopCashback, Quidco or Shopmium can help you save money on purchases (e.g. Christmas gifts) you’re already planning to make. Some even offer bonuses for referring friends, which can be a handy extra earner. 

9. Rent out your car

If you own a car but don’t use it all the time, consider renting it to others through platforms like Turo or Getaround.

This can be a great way to earn passive income, especially if you’re not using your vehicle during the day or over the weekend.

With more people travelling for Christmas and New Year, demand for rental cars increases, making it a particularly opportune time to rent out your vehicle.

10. Become a mystery shopper

If you enjoy shopping and have a keen eye for detail, becoming a mystery shopper can be a fun and lucrative way to earn extra money. 

Mystery shoppers are hired by companies to evaluate the quality of service in their stores, restaurants or other businesses. Your task will typically involve visiting a shop and making a purchase and then providing feedback on your experience.

There are several companies that recruit mystery shoppers, e.g. Market Force and Grass Roots. Assignments vary in what they pay, depending on the complexity and time required. In some cases you aren’t paid a fee but are given a budget and are allowed to keep whatever you buy with this.

Mystery shopping allows you to combine earning extra cash with your everyday activities, making it an enjoyable and flexible way to supplement your income in the run-up to Christmas.

Closing thoughts

As you can see, boosting your income before Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful or even particularly time-consuming. By exploring the options set out above, you can find a method that suits your lifestyle and helps you to achieve your financial goals. 

Whether it’s taking a temporary job, selling unwanted items or offering a service, there are lots of ways to generate extra cash and enjoy a more financially comfortable festive season.

Here’s wishing you a very happy Christmas and a prosperous new year!

As always, if you have any comments to share about this article, please do leave them below.

Nick Daws writes for Pounds and Sense, a UK personal finance blog aimed especially (though not exclusively) at over-fifties.

Photo credits: Pexels