Your Holiday Budget Planner Checklist

Holiday budgeting tips to keep your season merry and financially bright.

Woman using a calculator to figure out holiday expenses surrounded by Christmas presents

The holidays can often be stressful when they are supposed to be a joyful time. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, planning travel, or hosting festive gatherings, this holiday budget planner will help you stay on track and spend with confidence. 

Step 1: Set Your Total Holiday Budget

Decide how much you can realistically spend this season

Factor in all categories: gifts, travel, food, decorations, donations, parties

Leave room for unexpected expenses (around 15% of your total budget to be safe)

Step 2: Make a Gift List

Write down everyone you plan to buy for

Assign a spending limit for each person

Consider unconventional gifts: handmade gifts, shared experiences, group gifts

Step 3: Track Your Spending

Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to log purchases

Keep receipts and monitor your progress weekly

Adjust your plan if needed–but don’t exceed your total budget

Step 4: Plan for Non-Gift Expenses

Estimate costs for holiday meals, parties, and travel

Look for ways to save: potlucks, carpooling, off-peak travel dates

Use loyalty points or rewards to offset costs

Step 5: Shop Smart

Take advantage of sales and promotions

Plan your purchases ahead and stick to your shopping list

Avoid impulse buys–stick to your list

Step 6: Save Ahead

Set up a dedicated holiday savings account

Automate weekly transfers to build your fund

Use budgeting tools like money managing apps to stay organized

Step 7: Reflect and Reset

After the holidays, review what worked and what didn’t

Note any overspending and plan how to adjust next year

Celebrate your financial wins–big or small

Budgets don’t limit the holidays, they help you focus on what really matters, making memories filled with connection and joy! 

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.