How can you keep your finances under control for Christmas?

The arrival of the final ceremonies also brings with it an increase in costs, which are mostly absent in the other months of the year.

Keeping your finances under control this holiday season can bebe a big challenge.

With this in mind, APC Intelidat an Experian Company provides a number of recommendations so that costs do not become a nightmare.

1. Prepare an exclusive budget for Christmas: Before you start shopping, create a budget with all expected expenses, including gifts, decorations, dresses, parties, food, among others. Then allocate a specific amount to each category and make sure you stick to that budget.

2. Make a list of gifts: Make a list of people you want to give gifts to. Now that you have a budget, you know how much money you can spend on gifts. That way you will be able to organize yourself better. Set a maximum for gifts and amount per person and stick to it.

3. Plan your purchase: Do your Christmas shopping early. Do not leave them to the last minute, so you will avoid buying at any cost or acquiring products you do not need. Before you buy, research where to buy.

4. Try to shop on the same day and in the same place: In this way, you will save on transportation, gasoline and parking. The fewer times you go shopping, the more money you will save.

5. Be careful with credit and buying on installments or installments: Always stick to your budget and make sure you can pay what you spend before your card is canceled to avoid extra charges. If you decide to make purchases in installments, try to postpone them for as short a time as possible. Remember that the main thing is not to spend more than you can really pay in the short term.

6. Be creative with decorations and activities: Christmas is not just about expensive gifts. You can make crafts, make home decorations, and enjoy free or low-cost activities, such as going for walks, viewing Christmas lights, or watching movies as a family.

“Remember that it is crucial to enjoy the magic of this time without exceeding your financial means. Planning, setting limits and being aware of our expenses will help us maintain financial control at the end of the year,” emphasizes APC.