November 2026
The holidays are a time for giving, celebrating and making memories—but those festive moments can come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season without letting holiday spending put a strain on your budget.
Start with a holiday spending plan
Before you start shopping, decide how much you can comfortably afford to spend. Make a list of everyone you plan to buy for, along with gifts, food, decorations, travel and other holiday expenses. Giving each category a spending limit can help you stay on track and avoid surprises when the bills arrive.
Look for ways to save
You don't have to spend a lot to make the holidays special. Compare prices, look for sales and consider using coupons or cash-back rewards when appropriate. Shopping early can also help you avoid last-minute purchases that may cost more. And don't overlook homemade gifts, shared experiences or thoughtful gestures—they can be just as meaningful as something purchased at a store.
Keep track of your spending
As you make purchases, subtract them from your holiday budget. This simple step can help you see how much you have left to spend and keep one enthusiastic shopping trip from turning into an expensive one.
Remember what matters most
The holidays aren't about how much you spend. They're about spending time with the people you care about and creating memories together. A thoughtful plan can help you enjoy the celebrations while starting the new year on stronger financial footing.
Set aside some money for next year
After the holidays are over, set yourself up for success next year. Start putting a little money aside with each paycheck. Consider creating a separate holiday savings fund, like Waukesha State Bank’s Christmas Club, so the money you've set aside doesn't get mixed in with your everyday spending.
A little planning now can make for a happier—and less stressful—holiday season.