The holiday season is practically here. Have you started shopping yet? Better yet, do you have a savings plan and a list?! To help you with planning and avoiding holiday debt, check out the latest holiday shopping news.
ACCC has the scoop on holiday shopping news.
Holiday Shopping Headlines & Tips
- “Retailers think they’re giving customers what they want. ‘Not quite,'” say many customers by USA Today
- “Why you should start saving for the holiday season now” by USA Today
- “Christmas in October? Walmart to kick off holiday shopping before Halloween” by Yahoo! Finance
- “The new normal: Cyber Monday is exciting deal-hungry shoppers more than Black Friday this holiday season” by CNBC
- “Walmart’s Early Access sale: Black Friday-style deals on iPads, Apple Watch and Xbox” by CNET
Shopping Tips to Stay on Budget
- Do your research. Before you hit the stores, call around & go online to find the best deals. Save on transportation costs by consolidating your shopping trips.
- Make a holiday shopping budget. Track and manage all your seasonal expenses. Examples of these expenses include food, gifts, & special events. Determine how much you want to spend and what you do spend in each category. The goal is to stay as close to your budget as possible.
- Create a checklist. Plan a list of gifts ahead of time for your friends & family. Don’t buy to buy – only buy what someone wants. Buy them before the holiday rush. Always carry this holiday shopping checklist with you when shopping. Don’t be tempted by flash sales and bargains. This way, you will only purchase what you need.
- Use the right payment method. Use cash, debit cards, or checks to make your purchases for the holidays. Spend only the money you have. Avoid using credit cards. This will prevent you from racking up large bills with high interest. You don’t want to spend the new year paying off unnecessary debt.
- Challenge yourself. Giving feels good, but don’t overspend. Try spending less than you did last year on holiday shopping. Scope out deals & eliminate unnecessary purchases. Do not buy extra things just because you know that person will love them. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!
You can find lots of deals around for your holiday shopping needs if you keep an eye on the news. Join us next Friday for another Weekly-Round-up! If you’re struggling to pay off debt, sign up for a free credit counseling session today.
