The holidays bring light, laughter, and plenty of reasons to gather—but they can also bring financial pressure. Between gifts, travel, food, and festive traditions, expenses can add up quickly. Many people turn to credit cards or buy-now-pay-later options to keep up, only to face a financial hangover in January.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

With a thoughtful plan and a few simple strategies, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing your financial wellbeing. At Members First Credit Union, we’re here to help you approach holiday spending with confidence, not stress.

1. Start With a Spending Plan You Can Stick To

A holiday budget doesn’t need to be restrictive—in fact, it should give you clarity and confidence. Start by estimating how much you can comfortably spend this season without relying on high-interest debt.

Set an overall number, then break it down into categories such as:

• Gifts
• Travel
• Food and entertaining
• Charitable giving
• Seasonal activities

When you decide what matters most, you can allocate more to the traditions you love and trim areas that matter less.

If you want help building a realistic plan, explore our free Move Forward Academy for lessons on budgeting, financial wellness, and practical tools to make holiday planning easier.

2. Shop Smarter — Not Harder

A few mindful habits can help you stay on budget while still enjoying the season:

Track your spending in real time

Whether you use a budgeting app, spreadsheet, or simple notes list, regularly updating your spending helps you stay on track — and avoid accidental overbuying.

Look for thoughtful deals (and avoid impulse buys)

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be helpful, but they often spark spur-of-the-moment spending. Before you click “add to cart,” pause and decide whether it’s something you genuinely planned to buy.

Shop with intention

Meaningful gifts aren’t always expensive. Handmade items, shared experiences, or purchases from local small businesses often carry more heart and help keep your spending manageable.

Use the right payment method

If you rely on a credit card for gifts or travel, choose one with predictable, manageable terms. Members First offers a competitive Consumer Credit Card that can help you cover short-term seasonal expenses without taking on long-term debt.

3. Celebrate the Season With Free or Low-Cost Traditions

Not every holiday moment needs a price tag. Some of the most meaningful memories come from simple experiences shared with the people you care about. Here are a few ideas that bring joy without adding to your expenses:

Enjoy holiday lights together

Many neighborhoods and town centers put up beautiful displays. Bundle up, grab a warm drink from home, and take a walking tour.

Host a cozy movie night

Choose a favorite holiday classic, make popcorn, and enjoy a low-key evening in. Or make it a bigger occasion by inviting friends to a potluck and movie night.

Bake something seasonal

Baking can be inexpensive and fun, whether you try a new recipe or revisit a family favorite. Cookies, quick breads, and simple candies all make great low-cost gifts.

Start a tradition that costs nothing

Write each family member a heartfelt note, volunteer together, create a holiday playlist, or share stories about past celebrations.

Visit local community events

Many towns in New Hampshire offer free tree lightings, concerts, parades, and craft fairs: all wonderful ways to enjoy the season without overspending.

These activities not only help you stay on budget; they often become the moments everyone remembers most.

4. Borrow Wisely When You Need Extra Flexibility

Sometimes holiday costs are larger or more unexpected than planned, and that’s completely normal. The key is choosing borrowing options that support your financial wellbeing.

Consider a personal loan or line of credit

These options may offer lower interest rates than retail cards or buy-now-pay-later plans, while giving you one predictable monthly payment. Members First provides responsible, member-first borrowing options to help you manage holiday spending confidently.
→ Explore your options here: Personal Loans

Use credit strategically

If you're using a credit card, be mindful of your total balance and commit to a repayment timeline that works for you. Even small payments throughout December can help reduce your January bills.

5. Plan Ahead for Next Year (Your Future Self Will Thank You)

The best holiday spending strategies begin long before the decorations come out.

Consider setting up a recurring transfer to a dedicated savings account: even $10 or $20 per paycheck adds up over time. By next November, you’ll have a cushion ready to cover gifts, travel, and celebrations.

Members First makes it easy to create separate savings buckets for specific goals.
→ Start saving here: Personal Savings Accounts

If you’re unsure how much to set aside, explore lessons in budgeting and other topics through our Move Forward Academy to build a plan that feels comfortable and achievable.

A Season You Can Actually Enjoy

Holiday spending doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—and you don’t need to choose between celebrating and staying financially secure. With a little planning, smart spending habits, meaningful low-cost traditions, and the right financial tools, you can enter the new year feeling confident instead of stressed.

Members First Credit Union is here to help you make the most of the season. Whether you’re building a budget, exploring responsible borrowing options, or planning for next year, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.

Plan your holiday spending with confidence — learn more at membersfirstnh.org.