It's hard to believe, but we've made it to the final quarter of 2023, which means the holiday season is just around the corner (woohoo 🥳)! With summer approaching, it's easy to overspend on social activities. This can put a strain on your finances, especially when you budget for gift-giving and maintaining those financial goals 💸. If you can relate, don't worry, we still have plenty of time! Here are 4 ways to boost your budget so you can make this holiday season memorable. 

1. Clear the clutter and sell unwanted items 

Chances are, most of us have items lying around our homes that we no longer use or need. One of the quickest ways to get quick cash is by decluttering and selling these items 👕. Snap a few pictures and post your items on popular platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, Depop or Gumtree 📸. You’ll be amazed how swiftly these items find new homes! This not only frees up some valuable space at home, but also provides you with some extra cash to fund your holiday shopping.  

2. Rent out what you don’t use 

If you’re not ready to part with some of those unused items, consider renting them out instead! Have a spare room in your home? Explore renting it out on platforms like Airbnb or Short-Term Rental Facebook groups. Tourists and holiday travellers are often on the lookout for affordable and comfortable accommodations, especially in the warmer months when the demand is at its peak in Australia 🏝️! This can even vary to parking spaces, cameras, bikes or cars. People can even explore renting clothing through platforms like The Volte! 

⚠️ Be sure to check with your insurance provider to ensure you’re covered in case of accidents!  

3. Try online surveys  

 While online surveys won’t make you a millionaire overnight (we can dream, right?), they provide an easy and flexible way to earn some extra money during your free time 💻. To maximise your earnings, consider signing up for multiple online survey companies.  

Below are some recommended paid online survey sites:  

• Surveyz 
• Octopus Group 
• Opinion World   

4. Pull up your sleeves and start a (temporary) side hustle  

Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr and Airtasker are awesome ways to leverage your skills and talents by offering your services. The beauty of these platforms is that you’re in control of your pay and the work you take on. While building a side business may take time, quick and easy options like delivering food, pet sitting, tutoring or driving rideshare services can be a quick income boost 🐕. And once you have the cash you need, you have the flexibility to stop once you’ve reached your financial goals.   

 Remember, it’s important to make conscious financial choices to ensure you can travel or treat your loved ones these upcoming holidays! To have even more control of your cash, try MyPayNow today! Access your earnings when you need them – it’s your money after all 📲!