Christmas is just around the corner, along with a hectic round of parties, etc. 

To start 2018 fit and refreshed, rather than financially flattened, here's a 7-step plan to consider for managing your upcoming expenses:

1.  Create a budget

• Use a spreadsheet to work out how much you can afford to spend on gifts, holiday, food and drink and STICK TO IT.

2.  Be sensible with your gifts

• Talk to family and friends about setting a dollar limit on gifts.
• Consider a secret Santa system.
• Pitch in as a group to buy higher priced items.
• Donate a sum of money to a charity on behalf of someone as their gift.

3.  Start early

• Write up a gift list in advance and only shop for those items.
• Buy online to save time shopping the stores (make sure you leave enough time for delivery - but that's why you're starting early right!).

4.  Do your homework

• Do your research online before hitting the stores.

• Compare prices and know what you are willing to pay.

• Look for sales - yep they have already started!

5.  Eat, drink, save

• Party smarter not harder - if hosting ask everyone to bring a plate.
• If going out - eat before you go and buy an entree instead of a main (just to be social).

6.  Use credit wisely

• Review your credit card (interest rate, limit).
• It maybe time to shop around for a better credit card deal.

7.  Holiday at home

• There is nothing wrong with a staycation - we do it all the time and why not - we have everything we need at home and it takes the stress out of packing and travelling.
• Ok that's not your idea of a holiday, then try local - you don't always have to go overseas for a holiday - how long has it been since you camped out under the stars?
• A staycation means you can start that new exercise regime early or try that new recipe you've always wanted to make.