How to Save Year-Round for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and often, significant spending. To avoid the financial stress that can accompany this festive time, it’s wise to start saving early. Here are some practical tips to help you save year-round and ensure you’re financially prepared for the holidays.

woman in front of couch with gift boxes for the holidays
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1. Set a budget

Start by setting a realistic holiday budget. Determine how much you plan to spend on gifts, decorations, travel, and other holiday-related expenses. Having a clear budget helps you stay on track and avoid overspending.

2. Open a dedicated holiday savings account

Consider opening a dedicated holiday savings account, like AbbyBank’s Holiday Savings Account. By setting aside a small amount each month, you can accumulate a significant sum by the time the holiday season arrives. This account can help you stay disciplined and ensure that your holiday spending doesn’t impact your regular budget.

3. Automate your savings

Automate your savings by setting up automatic transfers to your holiday savings account. This way, you won’t have to remember to save each month—it will happen automatically. Even small, regular contributions can add up over time.

4. Take advantage of sales throughout the year

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts throughout the year. Purchasing gifts and holiday items during off-peak times can save you a lot of money. Look for deals during major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season sales.

5. Use cashback and rewards programs

Utilize cashback and rewards programs to earn money back on your purchases. Many credit cards offer cashback on everyday spending, which you can then use to fund your holiday expenses. Just be sure to pay off your balance each month to avoid interest charges.

6. Make a gift list and stick to it

Create a list of people you plan to buy gifts for and set a spending limit for each person. This helps you stay organized and prevents impulse buying. Stick to your list to avoid overspending.

7. Save on travel

If you plan to travel during the holidays, book your travel arrangements early to get the best deals. Consider flexible travel dates and look for discounts on flights, hotels, and rental cars. Using travel rewards points can also help reduce costs.

8. Start a holiday fundraiser

If you’re part of a community or organization, consider starting a holiday fundraiser. This can help cover the costs of community events, decorations, and gifts, reducing the financial burden on individuals.

9. DIY gifts and decorations

Get creative with DIY gifts and decorations. Handmade items can be more meaningful and cost-effective than store-bought ones. Plus, crafting can be a fun activity to do with family and friends.

10. Review and adjust your budget

Periodically review your holiday budget and savings progress. Adjust your savings plan as needed to ensure you’re on track to meet your goals. If you find you’re falling short, look for areas where you can cut back or save more.

Start saving today with AbbyBank!

At AbbyBank, we understand the importance of financial planning for the holiday season. Our Holiday Savings Account is designed to help you save effortlessly throughout the year. Start one today, and by next year, you’ll be well-prepared for the holiday season without the financial stress. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you achieve your savings goals.