Navigating Holiday Gifting, Gift Planning and Budgeting: PLUS Our Holiday Gift Tracker

Kayla Dahl
Nov 12
5 min read

The holiday season is right around the corner, bringing joy and excitement, but also a fair share of stress. As I think about the upcoming celebrations, I want to transform holiday shopping from a chore into a delightful experience. In this post, I’m sharing practical insights for holiday gifting, planning, and budgeting, along with details about my Holiday Gift Tracker, designed to keep you organized and relaxed.

5 Tips for Holiday Gift Shopping

Start Early
Begin your shopping as soon as possible. Starting early can lower your stress levels significantly. When you spread your shopping over several weeks, you can take your time to find thoughtful gifts that suit each recipient. Studies show that those who start early report 50% less stress compared to last-minute shoppers.
Make a List
Write down the names of everyone you're buying for along with gift ideas. This keeps you focused and helps avoid distractions from countless promotions. For example, having a list can save you an average of 20% by steering you away from impulse purchases.
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can afford to spend overall and per person. For instance, if you have ten people to shop for and a total budget of $300, aim to spend about $30 per person. A budget can help you avoid financial strain and ensure that you enjoy the holiday season instead of stressing over bills later.
Consider Experiences
Think about gifts that create memories rather than just material items. Consider experiences like tickets to a local theater, a cooking class, or even a day trip. According to a study from the University of California, experiences can bring longer-lasting happiness than physical gifts.
Be Flexible
While it’s important to have a plan, don’t be afraid to deviate from it if you find something that feels just right for someone on your list. Flexibility can spark joy and lead to unexpected surprises, making your shopping journey much more enjoyable.

Eye-level view of a cozy holiday gift display — A cozy holiday gift display showcasing various wrapped presents.

3 Key Sales to Look Out for

1. Black Friday

Black Friday is notorious for massive sales, with discounts often reaching up to 70% on popular items. It can feel chaotic, but it’s also a prime opportunity to score deals on high-ticket items like electronics.

2. Small Business Saturday

By shopping on Small Business Saturday, you not only support local entrepreneurs but also discover unique gifts. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays in the community, bolstering local economies.

3. Cyber Monday

For those who prefer to shop from home, Cyber Monday offers significant savings, often around 25% to 40% off a wide range of products online. It’s the perfect day to wrap up your gift list in comfy pajamas.

Navigating Black Friday: Do's and Don'ts for Black Friday Shopping

Do's

Do Your Research

Investigate the best deals online before heading out. Many popular stores release ads early, allowing you to compile a targeted shopping list that will save both time and money.

Do Arrive Early

If shopping in-store, arriving at least an hour before opening can give you a head start on securing popular items. Last year, many shoppers reported long lines but also huge discounts.

Do Use Apps and Websites

Retail apps can provide extra discounts and flash sales. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these by checking specific retailers' apps before purchasing.

Don'ts

Don’t Get Caught Up in the Hype

Just because something is heavily advertised doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Stick to your list to avoid regret later.

Don’t Forget to Compare Prices

The lowest price isn’t always where you think. Apps and websites can quickly help you witness those discrepancies before you buy.

Don’t Shop Alone (Unless that's your Bag, Baby)

Bringing a shopping buddy can help you stay within your budget and provide second opinions on potential gifts, making the adventure more enjoyable.

Close-up view of a festive holiday shopping scene — A festive holiday shopping scene with colorful decorations and gift items.

5 Budgeting Tips for Holiday Gifting

Create a Holiday Budget
Pinpoint your total spending limit. Even having a rough estimate helps prioritize purchases. For example, assign specific amounts for categories like family, friends, or coworkers.
Track Your Spending
Keep careful records of your expenses as you shop. This awareness allows real-time adjustments to help you stay on target, ultimately avoiding overspending by as much as 30%.
Use Cash
If you struggle with maintaining discipline, using cash can make you pay more attention to your spending. Switch to credit only if you can remain under budget.
Look for Discounts and Coupons
Take advantage of promotions and search for coupons online. Retailers frequently offer at least a 10% discount during the holiday season.
Plan for Post-Holiday Sales
After the holidays, many products go on sale. Planning ahead for gifts next year can save you as much as 50% during clearance events. I almost always hit the post-Christmas sales for next year's gifts, decor and footie pajamas!

Introducing My Holiday Gift Tracker!

To simplify your gift planning this season, I’m thrilled to introduce my Holiday Gift Tracker! This digital tool streamlines your holiday shopping and budgeting process.

What’s Included:

Google Sheets Template
Organize your gift list, budget, spending, and recipient details all in one easily accessible format.
Editable Canva Template
Customize your planner pages with festive designs. Personalize it and make your holiday planning truly unique.
PDF Download
Direct links to access your templates in Google Sheets and Canva are included, ensuring you can start right away.