3 On Your Side: Holiday Spending Plan
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Even if you think it's too soon to start holiday shopping, you might consider sitting down to plan your budget and spending. As 3 On Your Side consumer reporter Jim Donovan finds, it could save you money in the end.
Now that we've flipped the calendar to November, holiday expenses like shopping and travel are on the minds of many consumers.
You may not be ready to get out and shop yet, but it is a good time to plan for end-of-year expenses, starting with a realistic idea of what you'll be able to spend on gifts, and on holiday visits to family and friends.
Don't overlook the little things. That can include meals at the airport during trips, postage for Christmas cards, holiday tipping, and even new clothes for holiday parties.
If you've been saving points or miles from frequent traveler programs or credit cards, consider how that haul could help trim holiday expenses. Because for the peak holiday travel season, those miles may not translate into free tickets, but see how you might cash them in for gift cards and other discounts.
Starting on a gift list early, also gives more time to comparison shop. A good thing, since some retailers are rolling out their holiday sales earlier than black friday.
And don't count on last-minute deals. Shopping at the last minute can leave you under pressure as retailers try to clear shelves. And in many cases that will have you spending more that you planned.
