We know what you’re thinking: Isn’t it too early to start planning for the 2025 holiday season?
The truth is, the holidays have a way of sneaking up on us. By the time they arrive, many people often feel overwhelmed and stretched thin.
By budgeting as soon as the holidays wrap up, you’ll be able to enjoy the next season with less stress and more peace of mind.
Here are three great reasons to start your holiday budgeting now:
1. Prepare for “Hidden” Holiday ExpensesWhen the holidays are still fresh in your mind, it’s a lot easier to recall all the “extra” costs that add up during the season, such as:
When the holidays are still fresh in your mind, it’s a lot easier to recall all the “extra” costs that add up during the season, such as:
Take time to review what you spent last year, and use that as a guide to create a realistic holiday budget for 2025. 2. Put Your Savings on Auto-PilotOnce you know how much you want to save, you can break your savings goal into manageable, bite-sized chunks. The earlier you start, the less you’ll have to set aside each month. For example, if you want to save $1,200 in 12 months, you only need to set aside $100 each month — or about $25 per week.Automating your savings makes it even easier! With Wright-Patt Credit Union®’s (WPCU®) Mobile and Online Banking, you can schedule recurring transfers into a dedicated savings account. This way, you can “set it and forget it,” knowing you’ll have the funds you need when the holidays roll around. 3. Beat the Holiday RushWith your budget and savings in place, you’ll have the flexibility to shop and take advantage of sales throughout the year instead of buying everything at once. This approach not only reduces financial stress but also gives you more time to focus on what truly matters during the holiday season.
Take time to review what you spent last year, and use that as a guide to create a realistic holiday budget for 2025.
Once you know how much you want to save, you can break your savings goal into manageable, bite-sized chunks. The earlier you start, the less you’ll have to set aside each month. For example, if you want to save $1,200 in 12 months, you only need to set aside $100 each month — or about $25 per week.
Automating your savings makes it even easier! With Wright-Patt Credit Union®’s (WPCU®) Mobile and Online Banking, you can schedule recurring transfers into a dedicated savings account. This way, you can “set it and forget it,” knowing you’ll have the funds you need when the holidays roll around.
WPCU is here to help you save better and plan for the 2025 holidays with confidence. Meet with a Financial Coach at your nearest Member Center, and together, we’ll find a savings strategy that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Looking for more money management tips? Check out our Education Center for free financial tools and resources, including our upcoming financial learning events!