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Updated: 11/14/24
Common December Budget Categories
With the holidays, your December budget might look a little different than usual. There’s no doubt that December is a higher spending month but when you make a plan for your money then you will know exactly how it was spent. Here are 7 common things you don’t want to forget when planning for December.
1. Christmas Gifts
This one comes at no surprise for your December budget, but it is something to be mindful about. Once you have your plan for December, make a separate Christmas Budget to help you track all expenses such as gifts, postage, cards, decorations, etc.
If you’re on a tight budget, be open with your family about it. Express to them that a fun and affordable activity together would mean more to you than a pile of gifts. For more tips on staying within your budget this month, check out 6 Tips on How to Avoid Overspending at Christmas.
My Festive Lights Christmas Planner will help you track your Christmas budget, seasonal activities, gift purchases, and grocery lists all in one place.
2. Travel
And with the holidays comes extra travel, whether it’s across town or across the country. Holidays are peak season for airlines, so prices are typically higher. And if you’re driving more that means more gas. Bump up that gas budget this month.
3. Food
What would December be like without all that tasty holiday food? Food category will be larger in your December budget thanks to all the extra festivities such as:
- Family Christmas
- Work Christmas
- Treats for school celebrations
- New Years Eve Party
- Making Cookie Platters
And don’t forget those Christmas themed treats! I am a sucker for those Little Debbie Christmas Trees. 🙂
4. Winterizing
Baby it’s cold outside (here in NY)! It’s time to prep the house for the winter months. I remember my first apartment that didn’t keep the heat in very well. Not only was money practically seeping out every little crack in the house, I was also running space heaters (hello electric bill!).
Prepping your house for cooler temps can help you save money in the long run.
Windows and doorways are the 2 biggest areas of heat loss. If you have older windows that are less efficient, I suggest using some window insulation film. You can find it on Amazon or probably your local hardware store.
It’s basically shrink wrap for your windows. I used it in my first apartment. It will help with heat loss and therefore save you money on your heating bill.
If you own your own home and have a little more money to invest in home improvement then check the heat loss in your attic. We added some spray insulation foam a few years ago and it has helped tremendously with keeping the second floor warmer.
5. Seasonal and Holiday Activities
Do you have a favorite holiday activity that you plan every year? Some holiday activities might be free while others might be more on the expensive side. Here are some things you might want to check out:
- Breakfast with Santa
- Town Festivals
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tickets
- Snow Sports – Sledding, Snow Shoes, Skiing
- Christmas Concerts
- Ice Skating
- Skiing and Snowboarding
6. Next Year’s Planner and Calendar
I LOVE a good planner! I have had so many different planners in the last several years. Apparently I can’t commit to one thing for 12 months, which is why I love quarterly planners.
My favorite quarterly planner right now is the Amplify Planner. I like all the extra space for to-do lists and the hourly breakdown of my day. It gives me a quick visual of how the day will go. That doesn’t mean I fill out every single hour. I put important appointments on there as well as routines like “get ready for school.”
7. Giving
Giving is probably part of your monthly budget but there might be some special opportunities during this season as well. Local food pantries like to provide families with holiday meals. Some organizations help to provide coats or gifts for kids. If you’re not sure how to help out, check with your church for suggestions.
Plan Your December Budget
Planning for your December budget can set the stage for a stress-free holiday season and a smooth transition into the new year. By considering these key categories—like Christmas spending, preparing for next year, and winterizing your home—you’ll be better prepared to manage your money and avoid surprises.
Want to make sure you’re covering all your financial bases? Download my free Financial Wellness Checklist to keep your finances on track and start the new year feeling empowered and organized!
Related Articles to Help with Your December Budget
Make a Budget: 5 Simple Steps to Get Started
Organize Your Money With These Common Budget Categories
The Best Christmas Budget Planner for a Stress-Free Holiday
Get Paid to Shop: Boost Your Savings with Rakuten Cash Back
