Christmas is only 100 days away, and many families are already feeling the pressure of holiday expenses. While the season brings joy, it can also bring financial strain if you don’t plan ahead. The National Retail Federation reports that shoppers averaged about $890 for gifts and other holiday costs in 2025. By taking a few practical steps now, you can keep your budget on track and enjoy the holidays without the lingering worry of debt.
1. Set a Realistic Holiday Budget
Begin by reviewing your regular bills, debt payments, and existing savings goals. Determine how much you can comfortably allocate to holiday spending without compromising essential expenses. Once you have a total figure, break it into weekly targets. With roughly 11 weeks before the major Black Friday sales, setting aside $50 each week will give you $550 to spend on gifts and related costs.
Pro tip: National Consumer Correspondent Allie Jasinski automates weekly transfers into a dedicated savings account, making the process hands‑free and consistent.
2. Create a Gift List and Track Prices
Write down every person you plan to buy for and note the type of gift you have in mind. Use price‑comparison tools such as Google Shopping to see where an item is cheapest. For price‑history data, check CamelCamelCamel for Amazon items and Camelmart for Walmart products. Remember, a sale price isn’t always the best deal—compare historical prices and consider shipping costs.
3. Know Store Policies Before You Buy
Many retailers offer price‑match, price‑adjustment, or rain‑check policies that can save you money if an item goes on sale after you purchase it. For example, Target’s rain‑check policy (as of September 2026) can lock in a sale price for 30 to 45 days. Keep an eye on policy changes during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as some stores adjust terms during these high‑traffic periods.
4. Use Credit Wisely
Cash‑back rewards should be viewed as discounts, not extra spending money. Pay off your full balance each month to avoid interest charges. Be cautious with buy‑now‑pay‑later (BNPL) plans; they can make a large purchase feel affordable but often carry fees and strict repayment schedules. Avoid juggling multiple repayment plans at once, as this can quickly become confusing and costly.
5. Leave Room for Unexpected Costs
Holiday budgets should include a buffer for shipping fees, last‑minute gifts, and festive gatherings. Even a modest $50 cushion can prevent you from dipping into emergency savings or using high‑interest credit.
By following these steps—setting a clear budget, tracking prices, understanding store policies, managing credit responsibly, and planning for the unexpected—you’ll be better positioned to enjoy a stress‑free holiday season. The best gift you can give yourself and your family is financial peace of mind, allowing you to focus on quality time together.
Stay Informed
For ongoing consumer advice, follow National Consumer Correspondent Allie Jasinski on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. You can also subscribe to the twice‑weekly consumer newsletter for deeper explanations and practical guidance.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
