Seeing the dollar signs add up as you prepare for the holidays might have you a little worried about how much you’ll be spending when it’s over.

We have pointers to help you stay within your budget.

Have a holiday plan.

Having an outline for what you’ll be doing from Halloween into the new year doesn’t just include checking your holiday gift list twice. You’ll also want to plan what events to attend, how you want to decorate, and who’s hosting the family gatherings.

Then, set a budget that aims to cover all expenses the holiday season may bring. One easy way to do that is set up a “Holiday Spend” savings bucket.

Get creative with gift giving.

Whether it’s the gifts themselves or how they’re handed out, thinking outside the wrapping paper can make the holidays more memorable.

Handmade gifts and personal stocking stuffers are sure to be a hit. Organizing a Secret Santa exchange with a price limit allows you to focus your budget more on quality than quantity.

Shop the deals.

It’s the time of year when countless retailers advertise deep discounts for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and everything between, before, or after. Some of those deals will be exactly what you’ve been waiting for to check something off next year’s shopping list.

However, holiday shopping year-round can cut costs, too. It’s never too early to scope out a great discount on a gift idea for somebody on your list.

Don’t be shy about asking for price matching. Some stores will match a competitor’s lower advertised price. It never hurts to ask!

If you do some of your shopping at Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and other select sites and stores, you could receive up to 5x points with your STCU rewards card. * You can redeem those points for cash back and get something off your own wish list.

The holiday season is a time to be jolly, enjoy your loved ones, and relax in your warm, fuzzy socks. Financial stress is the one holiday tradition we can all do without.

Disclosures:

*All loans subject to approval. Read more about benefits of your STCU Rewards World Mastercard or your STCU Premier Rewards World Mastercard.

Purchases at qualifying stores only. Check qualified merchants before you shop. Purchases at Amazon.com, Walmart.com, major department stores, and major electronics stores can earn up to 5x points on the Premier Rewards World Mastercard by selecting appropriate merchants in online banking as 2x points categories. Purchases at Costco.com, Target.com, tire stores, auto repair shops, and used auto dealers can earn up to 4x points, as these merchants aren’t a 2x points option. Bonus points promotion runs November 1 through December 31, 2022, and is limited to $2,500 in qualifying purchases, or up to 7,500 points. No limit on the amount of standard earned points allowed.

Reward points typically awarded within three business days after your qualifying transaction posts to your account. Earned points on purchases never expire, with at least one purchase every 24 months. Bonus points expire one year from date awarded.