Preparing for Holiday Spending

If the thought of holiday spending sends your heart racing, you’re not alone. For many people, holiday shopping is among the most stressful times of the year.

Fortunately, holiday spending doesn’t have to drain your budget. The following tips can help you save money and maintain the holiday spirit.

Cut Back in Other Areas

Reduce other parts of your budget to accommodate holiday spending. You might dine out less for several months or reduce the number of streaming platforms to add to your holiday fund.

Spread Out Your Purchases

Start your holiday shopping as early as possible. Taking advantage of sales over several months helps you stretch your budget and purchase meaningful gifts for everyone on your list.

Check for Membership Discounts

Memberships such as AARP and AAA offer exclusive savings at top retailers and shipping services. Taking advantage of these savings opportunities helps expand your holiday budget.

Layer Your Savings

In addition to buying gifts on sale, look for deal sites with coupons and cash-back offers that apply to your purchases. You could receive significant cash back from top retailers.

Shop with Discounted Gift Cards

Some membership stores and websites offer discounted gift cards. Combining these gift cards with sales and coupons increases your savings on holiday gifts.

Use a Credit Card to Accumulate Points or Miles

Pay for your holiday shopping with a credit card that offers points or miles toward cash back or flight discounts. You can use the points to save on holiday spending or travel. Pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.

*This information is for educational purposes only.