By - August 1, 2025

Plan early to save on holiday shopping

Planning early is a smart strategy for spending. Before you know it, the holidays will be here. Now is a great time to start planning for holiday expenses to keep your finances on track.  

To get started, create a holiday budget to help prioritize your spending on gifts, travel and seasonal celebrations. Once you have a budget, here’s how to get the most bang for your buck before the most wonderful time of the year. 

Find discounts 

Most holiday shopping is done around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Many businesses advertise their sales, so plan ahead to take advantage of them. You can also check out the Publix Discount Program to save on everything from electronics to cruises.

Search for coupons 

They’re a terrific way to save money on almost anything. Sometimes, online coupons can be applied to in-store purchases, and multiple coupons can be used simultaneously. 

Comparison shop 

If you have a gift idea, search for the item in multiple places to find the best deal. Also, compare items between brands. Buying a similar item that’s more affordable will make your dollar stretch further.  

By planning ahead and sticking to your budget, you can make smart purchases that won’t break the bank this holiday season.

Sources: deloitte.com, equifax.com, fidelity.com, forbes.com