Silly-Season Spending Plan: Enjoy Christmas Without the Debt Hangover

Wesley Steer
3 days ago
2 min read

Why December blows up your budget

December piles on extra costs: presents, parties, travel, outfits, end-of-year catch-ups. Without a plan, January becomes damage control. Here’s a short, no-stress way to keep the joy and skip the debt.

Step 1: Put a hard cap on total spend

Decide your all-in number (gifts + events + travel). Split it across weeks till New Year’s. If you’ve set $1,000 and have five weeks, that’s $200/week. Move that into a separate “Festive” account so it’s not mixed with rent and bills.

Step 2: Simplify gifting

Secret Santa for friend groups or extended family.
Gift ceilings (e.g., $30).
“One big gift” rule for partners instead of multiple small ones.
Shared experiences (picnic, show, day trip) beat clutter and often cost less.

Step 3: Tame parties and catch-ups

Block your calendar now. If five events are locked in, set a per-event limit (say $40–$60) and stick to it. Pre-drink at home, split rides, and offer to host a low-cost BBQ where everyone brings a plate.

Step 4: Manage travel the smart way

Lock flights early if you must fly; otherwise road-trip + share fuel.
Check house-sitting or swapping accommodation with mates.
Keep a small “surprise” buffer (tyres, parking, last-minute gifts).

Step 5: Boxing Day with a plan

Sales are a trap if you don’t have a list.

List need-to-buy items only (e.g., sneakers, workwear, small appliances).
Set a price target before browsing and compare across 2–3 stores.
Keep receipts—returns windows vary over public holidays.
Skip BNPL unless you could pay cash anyway.

Step 6: Keep BNPL and credit cards in check

If you use them:

Limit to one active BNPL at a time.
Turn on payment reminders and link to your “festive” account, not your rent money.
If your card carries a balance, treat it like a mini-loan: pay more than minimums weekly.

Step 7: Start next year’s Christmas fund now

On 15 January, set an automatic $25–$40/week transfer into “Christmas 2026.” Future-you will be smug and well-resourced.

Quick gift ideas under $40

Local experiences (gallery tickets, mini-golf, paddle-board hire)
Gourmet consumables (local coffee, olive oil, craft chocolate)
Photo book or framed print
A promise voucher (pet-sitting, lawn mow, airport pickup)

Where Wesley can help

Build a December cash-flow map that protects rent, bills and savings
Create your 2026 sinking funds (Christmas, travel, car expenses)
Review debt options and a no-stress repayment sequence

Want a 20-minute festive cash-flow check? Book a discovery call.