AMES, Iowa -- The holiday shopping season is upon us. When heading to the stores this year, here are a few tips to spend within your family budget and still check items off your shopping list.

Set a holiday spending budget and stick to it.
“Plan to spend no more than 1 to 5 percent of your net income,” said Pat Swanson, Iowa State University Extension family financial management specialist. “Include all holiday expenses in the budget such as gifts, wrapping paper, cards and postage, travel to visit relatives, office parties, holiday foods and entertainment.”

Make a list and check it twice.
It may sound like a basic thing to do; however lists will help you stick to your budget. Take a few extra minutes to write detailed lists for both gifts and groceries. Bring the lists with you as you shop and check off items as you make purchases.

“Holiday shopping lists will save you time and money by avoiding extra trips to the store and spending money on impulse purchases for things you probably don’t need,” Swanson said.

The grocery list should itemize all items needed for holiday meals, entertainment and baking. Many stores will have specials on popular holiday foods.

Your gift list should include possible gifts, dollar amounts and alternative choices. With financial challenges affecting many people this year, consider talking with family and friends about ways to lower holiday spending. Suggest agreeing on lower gift dollar-limits, drawing names for gift giving, exchanging fewer gifts or coordinating gifts among family members.

Be creative with gift ideas.
It is becoming popular to use your creative talents for gift giving. Homemade gifts such as baked goods, crafts, art and photo items are extra special and enjoyed by all. Swanson suggests giving coupons for services like raking leaves, shoveling snow, cleaning the garage or taking someone shopping, that can be redeemed later.

An alternative gift idea is giving stocks or bonds. If purchased early enough, they can come with special frames or certificates that can be wrapped and put under the tree. Or consider donating to a person’s favorite charity.

Save money on holiday cards.
Send postcards instead of regular cards – they cost less to buy and mail. Think about sending electronic greeting cards or eCards. There are many websites that offer a wide variety of free holiday cards that can be sent by email.

“Save money on wrapping paper by making your own,” said Swanson. “Decorate freezer paper or brown paper bags with your own creative touch. This is a great project for kids. And remember gift bags can be reused.”

Get the best prices.
Swanson recommends shopping around to find the lowest price for the items you plan to buy. Prices on items can vary from store to store and merchants will have sales at different times. Check out prices online and in advertisements. Bring ads with you when shopping, as some merchants offer price-matching or price-beating policies. Keep your receipts.

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