by Laurie Childree

Created on: June 01, 2010

Christmas is the one time of year when the budget seems to be strained the most. It's also the one time of year when people are the most vulnerable to impulse buying. There seems to be an increase in the number of ads targeted at shoppers and then of course there are those last minute items to complete the list. There are some things that you can do to avoid impulse buys during the holiday season.

Budget

Make a budget for the holiday just like you do for the rest of the year. If you're used to finances being a little tight at the end of the year you can budget in a little bit of money to take out for presents. There are also decorations to buy that you might want to get after the holiday for the next year. 

Christmas List

A list of all the people you want to buy for and a set amount to spend on them is a good place to begin. When you know who you're buying for you can begin to get ideas about what to give them. Jotting down a few ideas by each person's name will help you to be more prepared for the holiday.

Clearance Sales

During the year you can stop at clearance racks and pick up a few items that you might like to give at Christmas. There are often a variety of things on clearance racks including craft supplies that can't be out grown. Just avoid things limited by age when buying items off of the clearance rack for Christmas. 

Plan Ahead

A little advanced planning can help you to prepare and avoid impulse buying. Who says you can't begin planning for Christmas in June or even January? Sticking a little money aside during the rest of the year will allow you to buy your gifts as they go on sale during the holiday. 

Shop Alone

When you shop alone you'll be able to think better. If you have small children with you asking for things in a crowded store you're more likely to give in to get them to be quiet. Shopping alone means that you can take your time and think about each purchase. 

Research

Taking the time to research the items that you want to give this year will help you to make an informed decision prior to going to the store. It'll also help you to make sure that you're staying within the budget that you set for yourself.
Impulse buying can be avoided at Christmas with a little planning and attention to detail.

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