The holidays are here! While the season brings joy, it often brings expenses, too. With our five-step guide, let’s take the guilt out of gift-giving.
Between gift exchanges, festive dinners, and winter wonderland decorations, it’s easy for holiday cheer to turn into holiday debt. We’re here to help you celebrate without emptying your checking account or maxing out your credit card.
Our holiday budgeting game plan makes gifting fun and financially savvy!
Step 1: Craft a “Gifts and Gatherings” Budget ✅
A smart holiday season starts with a budget that covers all bases—gifts, gatherings, travel, and more. Start by listing everything you plan to spend money on this holiday season including unexpected expenses like hosting dinners, baking supplies, and holiday attire. By creating this list, however unending it may feel, you see the full picture upfront.
Powerful Reflection: Reference last year’s budget to help you stick to manageable goals rather than slipping into the “just one more” gift mindset.
Step 2: Prioritize Meaningful Gifts 🎁
We are here to remind you that memorable gifts don’t have to be expensive. Rather than splurging on expensive items, think about how you can create experiences or thoughtful presents. One of our favorites is an “experience card” for an outing after the holidays, extending your commitment to make time for the recipient.
You’ll be amazed at how much this shift in mindset towards meaningful experiences can keep your spending in check—and add to your catalog of special life moments.
To Do: For gifts with intention check out NASPORA (formerly We Buy Black) for unique, affordable options from our community.
Step 3: Hunt for Deals Early—And Strategically 🎉
Last-minute shopping is, well… not the best bargain buy. Keep your eyes open for early sales, and consider setting up price alerts on items that you’re most interested in. Price-tracking tools can be your holiday shopping sidekick, helping you snag discounts when they matter most.
By planning early and avoiding panic-buying last minute, you can cut out unnecessary expenses and focus on deals that genuinely save you money.
Bonus Tip: For a cheat code, join forces with friends or family for bulk purchases. If you’re buying supplies for a holiday dinner, teaming up could bring your spending total down and also reduce waste!
Step 4: Avoid Credit Cards, Embrace Cash 💵
Using your credit card might look tempting, but interest charges could haunt you long after the season ends. Try the “cash envelope” method instead. In this method, you set aside your budget in a physical envelope, and once it’s gone, so is the shopping spree.
This simple, old-school method helps you stay true to the financial limits of your budget and makes it easier to track your spending.
Pro Tip: WalletHub’s November holiday shopping survey in 2023 showed that a striking 25% of respondents were still paying off holiday debt from the previous holiday season. Keeping it cash-only helps avoid this type of debt cycle.
Step 5: Start a Mini-Savings for Next Year 🌱
The holidays sneak up fast, so creating a dedicated holiday savings account for next year’s expenses can reduce your stress for next year even further. Whether it’s stashing away $20 each month or setting up automated transfers, a holiday fund keeps your budget clear and your stress load light.
With a little planning and a lot of heart, you can keep your holiday season both merry and manageable. Avoid juggling bills come January with a little planning beforehand using our jolly game plan.
Happy budgeting—and cheers to a financially stress-free holiday season. #BankWhereYouWantToBe!
