Survey Says 59% of Americans are Stressed About Buying Gifts This Holiday Season

The holidays are nearing and that has many people stressed out.

While there always seems to be a normal amount of stress that comes with the holidays, this year, is a bit different.

According to a recent survey, 50% of Americans are stressed about buying gifts this holiday season.

Why?

Inflation has caused household budgets to be tighter now more than ever putting extra stress on the holiday shopping season.

According to a survey conducted by Bankrate.com, roughly 40% of holiday shoppers said inflation is changing the way they shop, with most trying money-saving strategies such as cutting back on spending and using coupons.

“Holiday shopping will look different this year with inflation around 40-year highs,”

Ted Rossman, Bankrate’s senior industry analyst

And with the pressure from holiday shopping, the majority say they either won’t have the money to buy Christmas gifts, will be pushed into spending money they are uncomfortable with or will have to cut back on buying gifts.

So, what do you do if you want to buy Christmas gifts but can’t afford it?

One way is to start shopping as early as possible and buying items slowly through the rest of the year.

“Starting earlier could help because it gives you time to spread out your cash flow and find the best deals,”

Ted Rossman, Bankrate’s senior industry analyst

The bottom line is – everyone is feeling the pressure of the holiday gift giving season but you don’t need to.

Simply enjoy the company of loved ones this year and don’t stress so much about the gifts. Besides practical gifts, memories and experiences are better anyways.