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1. Don't phone your relatives

Wishing every family relative across the world a Merry Christmas? Avoid pushing up your phone bill by using a service like Skype via your PC or laptop – as long as your family are on Skype too, your calls will be entirely free. If you don't have a landline and are on the go with your mobile then use Fring to make cheaper calls through Wi-Fi, or if you've got an iPhone download the Skype application to call abroad even when you're not at your computer screen.

2. Get duty-free prices online

Don't splash out on expensive cosmetics before searching for the best prices online. Avoid being stung by knock-offs, and visit Jersey-based , which sells big-brand perfume and make-up for less – with free delivery. Current deals include ghd hair straighteners for £88.50 (rrp £119), Elizabeth Arden eight hour cream for £8.25 (rrp £16), and Calvin Klein Euphoria for men for £22.99 instead of £36. You can make even more savings by using one of the 10% discount codes currently on offer.

3. Get crafty

It's not for everyone, but more creative types may enjoy making Christmas gifts and cards. It takes some forward-planning to save money by sourcing your supplies cheaply, so get cracking as soon as you can. Visit our craft pages for ideas for homemade Christmas presents. If you haven't got the time or talent to make your own gifts, head to one of the many Christmas craft fairs for presents that cost less and are more original than high street products.

4. Plan your food shop in advance

Check where you can get the cheapest ingredients and groceries and plan your shopping list at MySupermarket. If you want to order your groceries online, hurry because delivery slots in the week running up to Christmas are disappearing fast. Tesco and Sainsbury's aren't offering delivery on Christmas Eve; Ocado, meanwhile, has put its delivery charges up to £9.99 in Christmas week. It's common sense, but whether in store or online stick to your list and don't buy what you don't need – read our guide to cost-effective food planning for more tips.

5. Look out for supermarket bargains

Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury's often have some of the best prices for best-selling DVDs and books, so keep your eyes peeled. Ice Age 3 is only £9.98 at Tesco but £11.95 at Zavvi, while Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol is £10 at Asda compared to £13.29 at Waterstones.