It might feel too soon to start thinking about the winter holidays in the heat of summer, but trust us, your wallet will thank you later!
Between gifts, parties, food, travel, decorations and more, the holidays can quickly turn into a season of spending. If you’re not careful, those expenses can sneak up on you and even leave you with holiday debt in the new year.
Feeling overwhelmed yet? Don’t worry — with some planning, you can keep holiday spending in check and celebrate the season with a lot less stress.
Here’s why it’s worth getting a head start:
One of the biggest reasons to plan ahead for the holidays is to spread out your savings and avoid putting pressure on your everyday budget.
For example, if you set aside just $20 a week starting this summer, you could have over $300 saved by December. That’s a big chunk you won’t have to borrow or put on a credit card!
Tip: Open a separate savings account designated for your holiday expenses. Keeping it separate will help you stay organized and resist the temptation to dip into your holiday funds early.
Starting early also gives you more time to think through your holiday expenses before all the hustle and bustle sets in. Consider planning for things like:
While you don’t have to know every detail yet, thinking ahead now can help you avoid stress and overspending later.
No one likes waiting until the last minute to get all their shopping done. When you plan ahead, you give yourself more time to find the best prices and feel good about your purchases.
Here’s how you can shop smarter:
Start Now for a Smoother Holiday Season
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of peace of mind. By planning ahead, you can reduce stress, stay on budget and focus on what matters most.
Wright-Patt Credit Union ® (WPCU ® ) is always here to help you plan ahead and find ways to keep more of your hard-earned money. Schedule a time to meet with a WPCU Financial Coach and get a head start on your holiday budget. We’re With You!