The festive season brings with it a heck of a lot of spending pressure. And if you're already operating on a tight budget, it can be the straw that breaks the camel's back and pushes you into a spiral of debt.

Don't let that happen to you. Here are seven top tips on how to save money this Christmas...

1. Use MySupermarket

MySupermarket is a grocery price comparison website which allows you to compare the price of items at Sainsbury's, Tesco, ASDA and Ocado. Use it when you're shopping for Christmas dinner and you could shave pounds off the cost of your food bill.

2. Find free stuff

Sign up to freebie communities like Freegle and SnaffleUp. A huge range of items change hands on these sites: For example, many people use them to give away old fake Christmas trees and decorations, to make room for newer purchases.

You can even post 'wanted' notices, asking for specific items. Just make sure you give something back to the community when you're able to, to keep the whole system ticking over nicely.

3. Make your own cards and presents

Homemade cards and presents are often much nicer to receive, as well as cheaper to give. If you're looking for some crafty inspiration, check out Folksy - an online UK marketplace which specialising in handmade goods.

4. Cut back on the booze

I'm not suggesting you cut out festive tipple altogether, but cutting back a bit could save even more money than you think. When you're out socialising, alcohol is expensive in itself. And the effect it has on you can also prove to be pricey - because suddenly you think nothing of taking a taxi rather than a bus, and of buying rounds for people you barely know...

5. Big brands, smaller prices

If you're determined to get someone a particular brand of perfume, aftershave or cosmetics as a Christmas present, use a specialist discount retailer to get it for less. Online companies like FragrancesCompared, CheapPerfumeExpert and FeelUnique all sell high-end beauty products for lower-than-high street prices.

6. Get cashback

Another way to save money on presents is to shop via cashback websites like Quidco or Greasypalm. When you purchase something via one of these sites, that site gets commission from the retailer concerned - and some of that commission is passed on to you, in the form of cashback.

7. Don't buy - swap!

Are you cash-strapped, but coveting a new Christmas outfit? Start swapping and you could get a fabulous new outfit for nothing. Have a look at Swapstyle to find out more: This website can be used to swap shoes, clothes, accessories and cosmetics with people all over the world.