FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — When building a budget for the holiday season, it’s important to consider costs outside of who you’re spending on, including expenses for travel or food, if you plan on hosting.
“Always include a maximum price that you’re willing to spend because sometimes, even with these deep discounts, you can still get discounts upwards of 75% more,” says WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo. “If that sale price is more expensive than you’re willing to spend, it’s not going to be a bargain.”
WalletHub’s Holiday Shopping Survey shows nearly 2 in 3 Americans say the economy will make the holidays less fun this year.
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“We found that almost 20% of people are still carrying over holiday debt from a year ago,” Lupo said.
Lupo says that the same survey says 33% of people will apply for a new credit card to help with holiday shopping this year.
“Cash back rewards can accumulate, and at some point, you can redeem them for a statement credit to relieve part of your balance or you can redeem them for gift cards, which make great gift items,” Lupo said.
However, it’s important to be mindful of cards that offer deferred interest periods. That can be helpful if you pay your balance off before the promotion ends.
For those opting for alternatives, use store reward points to shop, look for deals on gift cards, consider DIY gifts, or opt for a gift exchange with a spending limit. Lupo says it’s important to avoid impulse buying in person and online.
“It’s easy to click, click, click and then 20 minutes later, your cart runneth over,” Lupo said.
You also want to get familiar with your credit card, as many already offer benefits that can be helpful, including rewards you can activate, price drop protection, and coverage for lost or stolen items.
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