And the budgets are finely tuned. Almost 42 percent said they would spend up to $500 on gifts this year. Another third said between $500 and $1,000. That’s in line with the study by the National Retail Federation that I wrote about last month.
I liked hearing about the reasons for the firmer budget. About 70 percent said that they had focused on tightening their budget overall and didn’t feel the need to spend as much. Some readers wrote in responses that included, “I’d like to focus less on the stuff and more on the reason for the season and family together time.” Another reader echoed that sentiment by sharing that they have a major vacation planned for January.
A third reader said they had been watching online sales and have been purchasing things for the past few months. I liked their tip on their spreadsheet too – “I also use a spreadsheet but have added a column to indicate where I put the gift that I have already purchased!” That’s a great idea, and I am totally going to add that column to mine as well!
In terms of types of gifts, electronics, clothing and toys topped the list – not surprising considering that 70 percent of respondents were married and 61 percent have kids.
Thank you for taking the time to answer the survey, and share your plans for holiday shopping! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!