Thanksgiving is almost here! Instead of worrying about how you’re going to get everything done in time (and pay for it all), follow these thrifty Thanksgiving tips!

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year, then you’re probably feeling the strain already. Whether it’s your first time, or you consider yourself an old hand, you might want to consider some of the following tips. They can be real life savers, and they’ll give you enough breathing room you can actually enjoy the holiday instead of just surviving it.

Tip #1: Don’t try to make everything

One of the hallmarks of Thanksgiving is that it’s a time to eat, drink, and be merry. However, while you should make sure you have enough food, nowhere is it written that you need to have a huge variety of food. Keep things traditional and simple, and if you need to, just buy some stuff at the store. It’s still delicious.

Tip #2: Ask your guests to help

Just because you’re hosting is no reason you should have to do all the work and foot the entire bill. Got the potluck route and ask everyone to bring something. Pool your resources together, share, and enjoy the metaphor for community togetherness through the medium of food.

Tip #3: Keep an eye on your coupon circulars

Stores aren’t shy about trying to get people to come in and buy a lot of stuff around Thanksgiving, so keep an eye on the coupons your local places are handing out. If you’re willing to do a bit of driving to hit different places, you could end up saving yourself a lot of money on your Thanksgiving preparations.

Tip #4: Dip your thermostat

If you have a house full of friends and family and you’re running the over to cook and bake, you don’t also need your heat on. You might even be able to get away with turning your heat off entirely for a couple of hours… until everyone goes home, at least.

Tip #5: Have a plan for your leftovers

Even if you and your guests gorge yourselves, you’re going to have leftovers. If you prep your storage containers beforehand, though, it’s a much easier job. Even better, ask your guests if they want to take some home, so that way you can make up their to-go plates before the food coma settles too heavily on your shoulders.

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