Happy Black Friday!
The holidays are here, which means sparkle, snacks, and spending temptations everywhere.
Before you slide into “I’ll deal with it in January” mode, let’s make sure your December spending feels as good as your hot cocoa tastes.
Here’s your toolkit for a cozy, clear-headed finish to the year 👇
💳 What to Include in December’s Spending Plan
December is a spendy month, so start by naming your big categories before they sneak up on you.
Here’s what to make room for:
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🎁 Gifts & wrapping: Be realistic, not guilty.
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🎄 Holiday food & gatherings: Plan potlucks or share hosting.
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🚗 Travel: Flights, gas, pet-sitting, and those sneaky airport snacks.
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💡 Utilities: Higher heating + electric bills are real.
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🧾 Subscriptions renewals: Check for annual auto-renews coming up.
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✨ “Me” money: For self-care or downtime after the chaos.
🪄 Pro tip: Add a “buffer” line item (around 5–10% of your total). It’s your “life happens” fund for December surprises.
🛍️ What’s on Sale in December
Don’t let a big wireless phone bill steal your holiday joy!
Mint Mobile’s Unlimited plans are 50% off right now, so you can get 3, 6, or 12 months of premium wireless for just $15 a month. It’s their best deal of the year. We’ve used Mint and can’t say enough about the great quality, big savings, and lack of contracts.
Turn your expensive wireless plan into huge savings at mintmobile.com/frugal
If you’re spending, do it strategically. December deals are some of the best of the year.
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Tech & gadgets: Especially headphones, smartwatches, and TVs after Cyber Week.
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Winter apparel: Coats, boots, and sweaters go on clearance mid-December.
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Entertainment & memberships: Gyms and streaming services often run “new year” promos early.
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Linens & bedding: Major discounts right before January’s “white sales.”
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Online courses & planners: Perfect for new-year prep at a discount.
Before buying, do a quick price check on Rakuten and Brad’s Deals — cashback + verified discounts means your “treat yourself” doesn’t come with regret. **
And Rakuten is still offering a $50 cash-back welcome bonus when you spend $50 at cash-back eligible online stores! **
🎄December’s Money Move
🎯 Do a year-end audit of your accounts.
Log in everywhere — checking, savings, credit cards, and retirement. See what changed this year, cancel what you don’t need, and note what you want to do differently in 2026.
See where your accounts are linked and delete any old apps or online stores you no longer want your card connected to.
✨ Bonus: If you’ve got an old 401(k) floating around, roll it over easily (and for free) with Capitalize. Future you will be so proud. **
🏠 December’s Money Challenge: Finding Savings Around the House
This month’s challenge isn’t about cutting back, it’s about uncovering hidden value in what you already own!
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Forgotten gift cards: Use them or regift them (no shame!).
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Energy vampires: Chargers, game consoles, and decor lights add up fast.
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Inventory your pantry & toiletries: Use what you have before buying more.
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Check your subscriptions: Cancel or pause anything you don’t need this month.
Join us in the Monthly Money Challenge Membership for the Home Savings Challenge!
The goal? Free up at least $50 in found money before January 1. Treat yourself to something that feels good and aligns with your 2026 goals.
Shop well friends!
Jen
**Means this is a sponsored or affiliate section. We may earn a small fee or commission when you choose to try one of our sponsor or affiliate partners. But opinions are still 1000% our own.
