The holidays are a time to celebrate, connect, and show appreciation to the people we care about. But all that giving can put stress on your budget, especially when travel, events, and last-minute purchases start adding up. Learn how to save on holiday shopping while still finding thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts. 

Set a Holiday Budget Before You Start Shopping 

Before you begin browsing, take a moment to map out your holiday budget. Decide how much you can comfortably spend overall, then estimate what you’d like to spend on each person. Keeping a simple list, whether in a notes app or a spreadsheet, can help prevent impulse buys and keep your spending on track. Members of Service Credit Union can use our digital banking tools to monitor purchases and stay within budget in real time. 

Shop Early and Compare Prices 

Buying gifts early in the season can make a big difference. Prices often rise as the holidays get closer, and rushing to buy last-minute items can lead to overspending on whatever is available. By starting early, you give yourself time to compare prices, wait for sales, and avoid paying for expedited shipping. Even picking up a few items ahead of time can help stretch your budget. 

Take Advantage of Seasonal Deals and Rewards 

Holiday weekends, loyalty programs, and online promos can offer meaningful savings. Many retailers offer special discounts when you do something such as sign up for their newsletters, while others might reward you for using their apps or loyalty accounts. Browser extensions that alert you to coupon codes or cash-back opportunities can also help keep more money in your wallet. Just remember to unsubscribe from any lists you don’t want to hear from the rest of the year. 

Give Something Homemade or Personalized 

Homemade gifts can be some of the most meaningful, cost-effective presents of all. Consider baking treats, putting together a photo book, creating your own self-care kit, or crafting something special. A personalized gift—like a framed photo, handwritten recipe, or custom ornament—often means more to the recipient than something purchased off a shelf, and it helps you stay within your spending plan. 

Or, Plan an Experience 

Thoughtful gifts don’t always need to be physical items. Experience-based gifts, such as a movie night kit, a special day trip, or a shared activity, are often more memorable and less expensive. These gifts focus on quality time and connection, which can be especially meaningful during the holidays. 

Suggest a Gift Exchange 

If you have a large family or friend group, proposing a gift exchange can make gifting more fun and far more affordable. Instead of buying something for everyone, each person buys a single gift within a set price range. Whether you choose Secret Santa, a White Elephant swap, or a themed exchange, this approach keeps costs manageable while still making the holidays festive. 

Use Credit Card Rewards to Offset Costs 

If you’ve earned rewards throughout the year, the holiday season is the perfect time to redeem them on purchases, gift cards, or travel. The Service Credit Union Visa Signature Everyday Elite credit card allows you to earn 1.5 points on every $1 spent*, plus get 15,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in your first 60 days.* 

Watch Out for Extra Costs Like Shipping 

Online shopping is convenient, but shipping fees and rush delivery charges add up quickly. Look for retailers that offer free shipping thresholds or in-store pickup. Consolidating your purchases into fewer orders can also help keep fees down. Additionally, there are many great reasons to shop local and support independent businesses, and saving on shopping is certainly a good one! 

Check out our tips for staying secure while shopping online. 

Plan Ahead for Next Year 

One of the best ways to stay on budget during the holidays is to prepare throughout the year. Setting aside a small amount each month in a dedicated holiday savings account can give you more flexibility and reduce stress by the time next season arrives. Service Credit Union can help you set up automatic transfers so saving becomes effortless. 

With a little planning and creativity, you can give thoughtful, meaningful gifts without stretching your budget. Whether you start early, take advantage of seasonal deals, or put a personal touch on your giving, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season while keeping your financial goals on track. 

*Must be a member of Service CU or eligible for membership with at least $5 in a Primary Savings account and a new Visa Signature Everyday Elite Credit Card holder. To receive the 15,000 rewards points, you must make $1,500 or more in purchases within the first 60 days of account opening. The rewards points will be added to your uChoose Rewards points balance within 30 days after you reach the required purchase dollar amount. You must register for uChoose Rewards to redeem and use the points.  Promotion subject to change or be canceled at any time without notice.