The festive season often brings full calendars, full tables and, for many families, fuller spending than expected. Even households that are financially comfortable can find December pressures add up quickly, especially when celebrations, travel and gifts all arrive at once.
A little planning now can help you enjoy the season without the stress of a financial hangover in the new year. Here are a few practical ideas to help keep spending intentional, not accidental.
Plan early to avoid surprises
Taking time to map out your expected Christmas costs can help you stay in control. Gifts, food, drinks, travel, events, and end-of-year catch ups can add up faster than we realise.
Creating a simple spending outline early in the season can help you stay on track. Many families also like to set aside a small amount regularly throughout the year as their Christmas fund so December does not feel quite so heavy.
Be mindful of how you pay
Behavioural research shows that people spend differently depending on the payment method they use. Cards and digital payments can make purchases feel less tangible, while using cash can increase awareness of what is being spent.
Some people find that withdrawing a set amount for certain expenses, like gifts or food, helps them stay anchored to their plan rather than spending on impulse.
Understand the risks with Buy Now Pay Later
Buy Now Pay Later services are convenient, but they can make it easy to underestimate how much you are committing to spend. Small repayments across multiple purchases can quickly add up.
If you choose to use Buy Now Pay Later this Christmas, make sure it is for items already within your planned budget and not an opportunity to stretch beyond what feels comfortable. Set reminders or automatic payments to avoid late fees and additional costs.
Avoid the pressure of last-minute shopping
Most people overspend when they are rushed. Planning ahead not only gives you more choice but also helps you take advantage of the major pre-Christmas sales, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
If you are shopping early, take a few minutes to compare prices so you know when a deal is genuine. A little preparation now can save a lot of unnecessary spending later.
Share the load when hosting
Hosting Christmas can be a wonderful tradition, but it can also place a lot of financial pressure on one household. Many families now prefer a shared approach, where guests contribute a dish, drinks, or even help with decorations.
It reduces both cost and workload, and creates a more relaxed and communal celebration for everyone.
Source: This article was originally published on Advisely with the title “Avoiding the debt hangover this Christmas” on 14 November 2025.
Planning ahead for a stress-free festive season
Thoughtful planning does not take away from the joy of Christmas. It gives you more control, reduces the financial pressure, and helps you start the new year feeling confident, not concerned.
If you would like help reviewing your broader financial plan before the year ends, our advisers can support you with personalised guidance that keeps your long-term goals on track.
Contact us to discuss how we can help you plan for the year ahead with confidence.
This information provided in this article is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your own objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a financial decision based on this advice, you must consider whether it is appropriate in light of your own needs, objectives, and financial circumstances, and where relevant, obtain personal financial, taxation or legal advice. Where a financial product has been mentioned, you should obtain and read a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) prior to making any decisions about whether to acquire a product.