Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year. I love the traditions, the food, the cozy family gatherings, the candlelight service on Christmas Eve… and yes, the shopping and gift giving. Whether it’s something to brag about or something we sheepishly admit, most of us spend more time thinking about presents than anything else during the holidays!
This year, shoppers are expected to spend $1,007 on holiday gifts, décor, travel, and festivities (Gallup News). For many households, that number can easily blow the budget if we’re not careful.
If you’re hoping to keep the joy high and the spending under control this season, here are a few tips:
1. Save ahead… and only spend what you saved
2. Ditch (or rethink) the credit card
3. Shop early
4. Try a family gift-exchange system
Let’s walk through these together…
1) Save ahead… and only spend what you saved
Do your future self a favor and don’t begin holiday shopping without a plan. Decide what you can and want to spend. Maybe it’s $1,000. Great… save that in advance and set it aside just for gifts. Shopping becomes much more enjoyable when you know the money is already there and accounted for.
A simple trick is to open a separate “gifts” savings account and automate $100 per month into it. If December rolls around and you saved $800 instead of $1,000, then $800 is your budget. No guilt. No tapping into extra funds. If you haven’t done something like this before, I encourage you to try it in the new year!
2) Don’t shop with your credit card
I actually like using a credit card for the rewards aspect, and I meticulously review my statements to stay accountable. But that’s not everyone’s habit or personality.
Many people spend significantly less when they use cash because the visual of money leaving your wallet is painful in a good way. And if the credit card stays home, you can only spend what’s physically with you.
Choose the method that aligns with your self-awareness. Just… please don’t forget to pay the credit card bill if you do use it.
3) Shop early
Picture this: it’s December 23. Your family Christmas is tomorrow. You’re tired, rushed, desperate—and suddenly everything in Target looks like a “good enough” gift regardless of price.
Let’s not repeat that.
Shopping early gives you breathing room and often better deals. It also gives you time to notice gift ideas throughout the year. When someone mentions a book they want to read or a hobby they’d love to try, make a quick note. It’s the easiest way to become an excellent gift-giver without the pressure.
And remember: not all gifts need to be new. Nostalgic or retro items—old books, antiques, childhood toys, collectibles—can be incredibly meaningful. There’s a whole world of unique finds online ready for thoughtful gifting.
4) Consider a new family gift-exchange system
My husband’s family is big. Six siblings, spouses, and a growing crowd of nieces and nephews. Buying for everyone can be overwhelming for the budget and for the brain.
A handful of years ago, we switched to a gift-exchange model where each person draws two names and buys only for those individuals. It’s been a hit! Not only does it save money, but it gives each of us more time and energy to choose something truly thoughtful for that specific person.
Gift giving is a beautiful tradition, but it’s not the centerpiece of Christmas. Enjoy the wrapping, the laughter when someone loves what you picked out, and even the joy of receiving something special. But let your heart land on what matters most: celebrating the Savior, cherishing loved ones, and sharing light in a season that needs it. None of that requires a dime.
Wishing you a season full of peace, joy, a very Merry Christmas, and happy holidays!
