It seems like #summer ended just a few days ago (and it did). You’ve barely had time to adjust to the cooler weather, check the furnace for #winter or prepare for #Halloween. But the #holidays will be here sooner than you think — and you need a plan to keep your spending in check.
With inflation driving up prices on fuel, food and pretty much everything else, many Americans are getting ready for a frugal holiday. Three-quarters (77%) say they will adjust 2026 gift-buying in response to rising prices, the Penny Hoarder says, and half (51%) say inflation is driving “severe financial anxiety” about the end of the year.
To avoid overspending, establish a #budget. Come up with an ideal maximum spend and break it down by category: gifts, travel, food, entertainment and decorations. Figure out whether you’ll need to dip into your savings or finance purchases with credit cards, but try to avoid creating long-term debt just for the holidays.
For gifts, make a list of recipients and jot down a few ideas for each. Watch for sales and track prices on desired merchandise, but be forewarned that retailer discounts may not be as generous as in past years. Start shopping early, and be prepared to “pull the trigger” on reasonably priced finds to check off your list.
Fidelity Investments suggests looking to sources other than the big-box stores to find thoughtful gifts. Social media platforms, Etsy, #yard and #garage sales, discount stores, and the #thrift and #secondhand stores supplied by generous #donations to ClothingDonations.org can be valuable sources of unexpected and distinctive presents.
Also look to the #thrifts and discount stores for low-priced #holiday decorations and #gift wrap. Much of that paper will wind up in the #recycling bin anyway, so there’s no harm in sticking to the basics. Alternatively, consider making gift wrap, greeting cards and gifts to bring an extra-personal touch to the holidays.
Save on food costs by focusing on simple, seasonal ingredients and crowd-pleasing favorites instead of fancy feasts. For instance, if your go-to holiday meal is beef tenderloin (currently $28 per pound!), substitute something a little more humble such as pulled pork sandwiches or lasagna — things your friends and family will love, but don’t take a lot of money to put on the table.
The holidays are for togetherness — and that, you can accomplish on a #budget. #HolidayShopping