5 Ways to Keep Holiday Spending Under Control
The holidays are a time for joy, generosity, and celebration; but they can also take a serious toll on your
wallet. Between gifts, travel, and festive gatherings, it’s easy for spending to snowball before the new year
even begins.
Here are five simple ways to keep your holiday spending merry and manageable this
season.
1. Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It
Before you start shopping, decide how much you can comfortably spend overall. Then, break that total into
categories: gifts, food, travel, and decorations. Track purchases as you go to stay accountable. A simple
spreadsheet or budgeting app can keep your “nice list” in check.
Tip: Use your checking account and online banking to easily track purchases in real-time.
2. Avoid Putting It All on Credit Cards
It’s easy to rely on credit cards during the holidays, but those balances can quickly grow and so can the
interest you’ll pay later. Try setting a spending limit before you shop and focus on using cash or your debit
card to help you stay on budget. If you do use a credit card, make a plan to pay it off quickly in the new
year.
3. Shop Smarter with a Plan
Start early, watch for sales, and look for ways to stack rewards or cashback offers. Compare prices online
before hitting “buy now.” Remember: sometimes the best gifts aren’t the most expensive ones; thoughtful,
handmade, or experience-based gifts mean more.
4. Don’t Forget the Small Stuff
Little purchases can add up fast: wrapping paper, stocking stuffers, last-minute treats. Build a small buffer
into your budget for those extras so they don’t sneak up on you.
5. Plan Ahead for Next Year
When the season’s over, open a Christmas Club Special Savings Account and start setting aside a little
each month. By the next holiday season, you’ll have cash ready and one less thing to stress about.
