As we enter the holiday season during this economically tough time, you might be wondering how you are going to afford food, parties, and gifts. You would not be the only one, but there are ways that you can cut costs. Today we are going to explore budget tips for the holidays.

Re-Evaluate Your Traditions

Re-evaluating your holiday traditions seems the most logical place to start. It is an opportunity to cut the fat from the holidays and focus on the meaning of the season or at least your priorities for it. Often we try so hard to keep up with the proverbial Joneses. Fueled by Instagram, Pinterest, and other social media, we can adopt traditions because everyone else seems to be doing them. Here are some examples of traditions that you could revisit.

Elaborate Feasts and Parties-

You do not have to be the sole host of Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas party. This makes me think of the movie, “Christmas with the Kranks.” This fictional family was known for throwing a huge Christmas Eve bash. In the movie, the neighbors come together and help them host a wonderful party. In the same way, ask your guests to bring a dish. If you hate potlucks, then request a specific dish to round off your planned menu. With everyone bringing something, your Thanksgiving dinner will actually be more aligned with the original one in Plymouth.

Elf on the Shelf-

While I am not going to go into the pros and cons of Elf on the Shelf, here is a question to ask yourself. Do you love this tradition? If yes, then be creative without breaking the bank. If the answer to this question is no, then tell your kids that he went back to the North Pole.

Christmas Outfits/Pajamas-

I think the best question to ask about new Christmas outfits or matching Christmas pajamas is, “Is it necessary?” It might be. You might need new clothes or pajamas. In that case, go for it. However, if you are looking for places to cut spending, this might be an easy tradition to eliminate.

Make a Budget

It is almost like I can hear your groans because I said the B-word. Budgeting does help you plan and spend your money efficiently. While it might be too late to save money for Christmas gifts, it is not too late to make a budget on how to spend the money you have available. Here are some budget categories you need to consider—gifts, food, decor, and anything else that you need to spend money on for the holidays. For gifts, include every person and gift you want to purchase, even the Secret Santa or White Elephant gifts. Write out the amount that you want to spend on each gift and then try to stick to it.

Shop Black Friday Deals-

Black Friday is not relegated to the day after Thanksgiving anymore. It has turned into a season of its own. However, there are great deals and savings to be found. Take advantage of these deals to stay under budget and save the difference.

Take Advantage of Free Shipping-

Save money on shipping gifts to your family members and friends by taking advantage of shipping directly to the person. Finding codes for free shipping or ordering from Amazon when you are already a Prime member can save you money. When you make an online order, don’t have the item come to you and then you wrap it and ship it again. You might not think that this will affect your bottom line, but every dollar counts on your budget. Whatever you do, plan ahead so you won’t ever have to splurge for overnight shipping.

These budget tips for the holidays can really help your pocketbook. From re-evaluating your traditions to sticking with your budget, you can afford what is most important to you during this season. If you need budgeting help, Ramsey Solutions offers many helpful articles and an app, EveryDollar. The holiday season should not be the most stressful time. Focus on what is best for you and your family, and it will truly be the most wonderful time of the year.