Create a Holiday Spending Plan

Whether you’re buying for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or just getting friends together for the holiday season, establishing a spending plan will help keep track of who’s on your shopping list, how much you’ve budgeted, gift ideas, and estimated expenses. 

TIP: In your regular monthly budget, remember to include a holiday spending amount to help you save gradually throughout the year.

Shop Smarter

After you have calculated your available funds and made a gift list that fits your budget, be sure to stick to it. And start shopping early. You’re more likely to purchase carelessly if you feel rushed or pressured. Shopping early in the week or in the mornings will help you avoid the heaviest traffic. Also, consider shopping online to avoid buying on impulse and to take advantage of free shipping. Studies show that customers are willing to pay 50% more for products in stores, where they can touch the product, than online.

TIP: Look for online deals and monitor the prices of gifts on your list. Dealnews.com features the best deals every day from over 2,000 online retailers and verifies the lowest total price they find from reputable retailers.

Trim Your List

Do you really need to exchange gifts with everyone in your family? Suggest drawing names or giving a group gift to certain members of your family rather than individual gifts. You may find that other members of your family love the idea.

TIP: Opt for a Secret Santa Exchange this year using Elfster.com, a free online Secret Santa organizer for gift-giving.

Give More Gift Cards

It’s easy to spend an extra $5 here and $10 there as you search for just the right gifts. With a gift card, you’ll spend exactly what you intend.

TIP: Online marketplaces such as Raise.com offers discounted gift cards to brands such as Target, Home Depot, Macy’s, Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s, AMC Theatres and many others.

Borrow Wisely

It’s easy to spend an extra $5 here and $10 there as you search for just the right gifts. With a gift card, you’ll spend exactly what you intend.

TIP: Online marketplaces such as Raise.com offers discounted gift cards to brands such as Target, Home Depot, Macy’s, Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s, AMC Theatres and many others.

Enjoy the Season

In the end, the holidays are all about enjoying friends and family. Staying focused on time with loved ones and other joys of the season can help you to keep stress in perspective. By being mindful of your wallet and budget through the holiday season, you can start off the new year on the right financial foot.