Creating a holiday budget can be one of the most difficult things to handle each year, here are some ways to handle your money.

As the holiday season rolls around each year many unexpected purchases and costs approach you. It can also give you a solid foundation from the start by saving you lots of time and stress — not to mention also preventing a debt hangover in the new year. 

Holiday spending can quickly add up, over the last five years Americans spend on average $600 on holiday, and $400 on extra non gift items. According to the National Retail Federation that’s about $1,000 on average for holiday-related purchases.

Setting your priorities straight early in the year can help with how much you spend, to make sure your budget isn’t sacrificed. Starting your budgeting early can also give you more flexibility in the long run. Savings in smaller chunks over a period of time can make it much easier to meet your goal if your budget is already tight.

You can also get an advantage from starting early by finding sales throughout the year. You also won’t have to fight the big black friday crowds for the items you want and/or need. With more time on your hands you can also find secondhand items, you won’t feel the pressure from the clock ticking.