Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner (2026 Shopping List) and more...

Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to cost a fortune this year!

If you’re trying to keep your holiday grocery budget under control, Walmart has announced its 2026 Thanksgiving dinner deal, and it’s worth checking out.

For just $35, Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal Basket includes ingredients to feed 10 people. That’s only $3.50 per person!

The basket includes a Butterball turkey, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, ingredients for several casseroles, dinner rolls, and even pumpkin pie.

I’ve put together the complete shopping list below, along with how Walmart’s offer compares to the 2026 Thanksgiving dinner deals at Aldi and Target.

What’s Included in Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner?

Walmart’s 2026 Holiday Meal Basket includes 26 total items across 17 different products.

Here is the complete shopping list, organized by category to make it easier to see exactly what you’re getting.

Turkey and Stuffing

• Butterball Frozen Whole Turkey, approximately 10 to 16 pounds
• Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix, 2 boxes (6 ounces each)

Potatoes and Gravy

• Fresh Russet Potatoes, 5 pound bag
• Great Value Brown Gravy Mix, 2 packets

Green Bean Casserole

• Great Value Cut Green Beans, 3 cans (14.5 ounces each)
• Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, 1 can (10.5 ounces)
• Great Value French Fried Onions, 6 ounce bag

Corn Casserole

• Great Value Whole Kernel Corn, 3 cans (15 ounces each)
• JIFFY Corn Muffin Mix, 2 boxes (8.5 ounces each)

Sweet Potato Casserole

• Fresh Sweet Potatoes, 3 potatoes
• Jet-Puffed Mini Marshmallows, 10 ounce bag

Cranberries and Rolls

• Fresh Cranberries, 12 ounce bag
• Great Value Brown and Serve Rolls, 12 count package

Pumpkin Pie

• Great Value Frozen Pie Crusts, package of 2
• Great Value 100% Pure Pumpkin, 15 ounce can
• Great Value Evaporated Milk, 12 fluid ounce can
• Great Value Frozen Whipped Topping, 8 ounce container

A quick note about the $35 price: Walmart estimates this total using an average 13.5-pound turkey and approximately 3.2 pounds of sweet potatoes. Your final price may be a little higher or lower depending on the actual weights and your location.

That’s a pretty impressive amount of food for $35!

Keep in mind that you’ll still need to check your pantry for additional ingredients called for in your favorite recipes, such as seasonings, butter, eggs, or sugar.

How to Get Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Meal

You can shop the Thanksgiving Meal Basket at participating Walmart stores or order the ingredients online.

The easiest option is to use Walmart’s special Thanksgiving shopping page, where the ingredients can be added to your cart together.

Shop Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal Basket

Walmart says the meal offer is available from October 28 through December 24, 2026.

The advertised $35 price is based on estimated turkey and sweet potato weights. Your total may vary depending on actual weights, availability, location, substitutions, and applicable fees.

Important: The advertised basket pricing excludes Alaska, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, and Wisconsin.

Get Free Express Delivery With Code THANKFUL

Here’s another offer worth knowing about if you don’t feel like making another trip to the grocery store!

Walmart is offering free Express Delivery on qualifying Thanksgiving orders through November 30, 2026.

Use coupon code: THANKFUL

To qualify:

• Your order must total at least $35.
• Your order must include Campbell’s mushroom soup, a Butterball turkey, or Stove Top stuffing mix.
• The offer expires November 30, 2026.
• Taxes and other restrictions apply.

Availability and delivery options depend on your location. Always check your cart before placing your order to confirm the discount applies.

The free Express Delivery offer expires November 30, 2026, but Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal Basket will be available through December 24.

Walmart vs. Aldi vs. Target: Which Thanksgiving Dinner Is Cheapest?

Walmart isn’t the only retailer offering an affordable Thanksgiving meal this year.

Aldi and Target have also announced special Thanksgiving grocery offers for 2026.

Keep in mind that these meals include different foods and serve different numbers of people, so the prices aren’t a direct apples to apples comparison.

Here’s how they compare.

Aldi’s Thanksgiving Dinner for Under $39

Aldi is offering ingredients for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people for less than $39.

The shopping list includes:

• A 16 pound whole turkey
• Three boxes of stuffing
• Fresh sweet potatoes
• Hawaiian sweet rolls
• Fresh cranberries
• Frozen peas
• Baby carrots and celery
• Pumpkin pie mix and crusts
• Whole milk and heavy whipping cream

There’s no coupon, loyalty card, or membership required.

Aldi’s promotional pricing runs through November 25, although some seasonal ingredients arrive later. Turkeys become available November 4, and pumpkin pie mix November 11.

You can see Aldi’s Thanksgiving Meal Deal here.

Target’s $30 Thanksgiving Dinner for Six

Target is offering a Thanksgiving dinner for six people for $30.

Its basket includes:

• Butterball whole turkey, up to 10 pounds
• Russet potatoes
• Ocean Spray cranberry sauce
• Two cans of Del Monte green beans
• Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
• French fried onions
• Stove Top stuffing
• Heinz turkey gravy
• Two take and bake baguettes

Target’s meal costs $5 per person and does not include dessert.

The offer runs November 8 through November 29, 2026, and excludes Alaska and Hawaii.

See Target’s Thanksgiving Dinner Announcement

Which Thanksgiving Meal Deal Is the Best Value?

If you’re shopping for a larger family, Walmart’s $35 basket is a really great deal.

At $3.50 per person, it has the lowest advertised cost per serving of these three offers, and it includes ingredients for a wider variety of traditional Thanksgiving dishes.

Aldi is another great option, especially if you prefer its stores or want a straightforward shopping list without coupons.

Target could make sense for smaller gatherings, although you’ll need to budget separately for dessert if you want to serve pie.

Remember that these aren’t identical shopping baskets. The best value for your family will depend on the dishes you actually plan to serve and what you already have at home.

More Ways to Save on Thanksgiving Dinner

Before you head to the grocery store, take a few minutes to see what you already have in your pantry.

You might already have some of the ingredients needed for your Thanksgiving dinner, which means you can put that money toward something else.

I also recommend checking your local grocery store ads, comparing turkey prices, and keeping your menu simple.

There’s no reason to make a dozen different side dishes if your family only eats three or four of them!

The goal isn’t to have the most expensive Thanksgiving meal. It’s to enjoy good food and time together without stretching your budget.

If you need a little help getting everything organized, grab my FREE Printable Thanksgiving Dinner Planner to plan your menu, make your grocery list, and keep your holiday spending under control.

Is Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner Worth It?

For families trying to save money this holiday season, I think Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal basket is definitely worth taking a look at.

Getting the turkey, multiple sides, rolls, and dessert ingredients for around $35 can make planning Thanksgiving dinner a whole lot easier.

Just remember to check availability, local pricing, and any extra ingredients you’ll need before ordering.

Check Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Meal Basket Here

What about you? Are you planning a traditional Thanksgiving dinner this year, or have you found ways to make your holiday meal a little simpler and less expensive?

    

If you’re looking for an easy appetizer for the holidays, this Pecan Bacon Cheeseball Recipe is one to add to your menu!

It’s made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, chopped pecans, and everything bagel seasoning. The combination is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, with a crunchy coating on the outside.

Whether you’re putting together a snack board for Christmas, having friends over for game night, or need something simple to bring to a party, this cheeseball is easy to prepare and looks great served with crackers.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

• Easy to make: The original recipe calls for just 5 minutes of prep time, plus refrigeration.
• No baking required: Everything gets mixed together, shaped into a ball, and chilled.
• Great for entertaining: Set it out with crackers as part of an appetizer spread.
• Lots of flavor: Cheddar, bacon, pecans, scallions, and everything bagel seasoning make a delicious combination.
• Perfect for the holidays: The pecan and bacon coating makes it a fun addition to your Christmas appetizer table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients to make this easy cheeseball recipe.

• Cream cheese: Creates the creamy base and helps hold everything together.
• Shredded triple cheddar cheese: Adds plenty of cheesy flavor.
• Bacon bits: Half goes into the cheeseball, and the other half is used for the outside coating.
• Pecans: Add crunch and texture both inside and outside.
• Scallions: Bring a mild onion flavor and a little color.
• Milk: Helps combine the cheeses and other ingredients.
• Everything bagel seasoning: Adds a savory blend of seasonings.
• Onion powder: Gives the cheeseball extra onion flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds a little garlic flavor.
• Salt, to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
• Crushed black pepper, to taste: Adds a little extra seasoning.

How to Make Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Just remember to save half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions for the coating!

Step 1: Mix the Cheese and Seasonings

In a medium mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, shredded triple cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and milk.

Use a hand mixer to combine everything until well mixed.

Step 2: Add the Bacon, Pecans, and Scallions

Add half of the bacon bits, half of the sliced scallions, and half of the chopped pecans to the cheese mixture.

Make sure the pieces are chopped small, then mix them into the cheese.

Save the remaining bacon, pecans, and scallions for the outside of the cheeseball.

Step 3: Shape the Cheeseball

Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and place the cheese mixture in the center.

Wrap it completely, then use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a ball.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Place the wrapped cheeseball in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining chopped pecans, bacon bits, and sliced scallions.

Step 6: Coat the Cheeseball

Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it.

Roll it in the bacon and pecan mixture, gently pressing the coating onto the outside until it’s evenly covered.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Place the finished cheeseball on a serving plate and serve with your favorite crackers or other dippers.

Print

Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

This easy Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is loaded with cream cheese, cheddar, crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, and savory seasonings for a delicious no bake appetizer that's perfect for holidays, parties, and game days!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword bacon, cheese, cheeseball, pecans

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Kristie Sawicki

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded triple cheddar cheese
• ½ cup bacon bits
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup sliced scallions
• 2 tbsp milk of your choice
• 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Black crushed pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a medium-size bowl add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, all seasoning, and milk. Mix with a hand mixer, until well combined.
• Then add half of the bacon bits, half of the scallions, and half of the pecans. Make sure to chop those in smaller pieces first.
• Put a piece of saran wrap on the counter and put the cheese ball in it. Then fully wrap it up with the saran wrap and form it into a ball.
• Put the cheeseball in the fridge for 20 minutes.
• In a shallow bowl, add the remaining chopped pecans, bacon bits and scallions.
• Remove cheeseball from the fridge.
• Roll the cheeseball around in the prepared shallow bowl and make sure the whole ball is coated with the remaining coating.
• Serve with crackers, or anything else of your choice.

Helpful Tips for Making a Cheeseball

Chop the mix-ins into small pieces. Smaller pieces of pecans, bacon, and scallions are easier to mix into the cheese and help the coating stick more evenly.

Save half for the outside. Don’t add all the bacon, pecans, and scallions to the cheese mixture. You’ll need the remaining half to coat the cheeseball after it chills.

Use plastic wrap to shape the ball. This helps you form the cheeseball without getting the mixture all over your hands.

Serve with a variety of crackers. Offering a few different kinds gives everyone something to choose from.

How to Store Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

Keep the cheeseball covered in the refrigerator at 40°F or colder when you aren’t serving it.

If you’re serving it at a party, don’t leave it sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F, refrigerate it within 1 hour.

The original recipe doesn’t specify how many days the finished cheeseball can be stored or whether it freezes well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bake this cheeseball?

No! This is a no-bake appetizer. You simply mix the ingredients, shape the cheeseball, refrigerate it, and add the coating.

What should I serve with a bacon pecan cheeseball?

Crackers are an easy choice. You can also serve it as part of a larger appetizer spread with other snacks.

Do the pecans and bacon all go inside the cheeseball?

No. You’ll mix half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions into the cheese mixture. The remaining half is used to coat the outside after refrigeration.

Can I make the cheeseball ahead of time?

The original recipe includes a 20-minute refrigeration step before coating and serving. It doesn’t provide instructions for making the cheeseball a day or more in advance, so that would need to be verified before recommending it.

More Appetizer Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:

• Bacon Cheeseball Bites
• Olive Garden Cheese Fonduta Recipe
• Layered Taco Dip Appetizer Cups
• Bacon Ranch Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

    

If you need an easy appetizer for a party or family gathering, this Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip is a great one to have on your menu!

Made with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, this warm and creamy dip is perfect for holiday parties, game days, or anytime you need something everyone can scoop up with crackers or bread.

And since everything cooks together in the slow cooker, you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye on something in the oven while you’re getting everything else ready.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Artichoke Dip

I love recipes that make entertaining a little easier, especially during the busy holiday season.

With just a handful of ingredients and about five minutes of prep time, this crockpot spinach artichoke dip is easy to get started. The slow cooker does most of the work, and you only need to give it a stir partway through cooking.

It’s a great option for Thanksgiving appetizers, Christmas parties, potlucks, or having friends over to watch the game.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need eight ingredients to make this creamy spinach artichoke dip!

• Fresh Spinach
• Artichokes
• Cream Cheese
• Sour Cream
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Salt

How to Make Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

This dip only takes a few minutes to put together before the slow cooker takes over.

Step 1: Prepare the Artichokes

Drain the canned artichokes and cut them into small pieces.

Step 2: Cut the Cream Cheese

Cut the cream cheese into eight pieces so it’s easier to combine with the other ingredients as it heats.

Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

Place the cream cheese, chopped artichokes, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt into the slow cooker.

Add the fresh spinach on top.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 2 to 2½ hours.

After the first hour, stir everything together to mix the spinach into the creamy cheese mixture.

Continue cooking until the dip is heated through and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Give the dip one final stir before serving.

Serve warm with your favorite crackers or slices of bread.

Instructions

Print

Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

Simple slow cooker recipe for homemade spinach artichoke dip appetizer.

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Kristie Sawicki

Ingredients

• 8 oz fresh spinach
• 1 can 14 oz artichokes
• 1 pack 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt or to taste

Instructions

• Cut the artichokes into small bits.
• Cut the cream cheese in 8 pieces
• In the slow cooker, add the cream cheese, chopped artichokes, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, all seasoning and spinach on top.
• Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 2 hours. Make sure to stir after 1 hour to mix in the spinach.
• Serve while warm with crackers, or bread.

Storage

Refrigerator

Transfer leftover spinach artichoke dip to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezer

Because this recipe contains cream cheese and sour cream, freezing may affect its smooth, creamy texture. The dip may become grainy or separate when thawed. For the best texture, I’d recommend enjoying it fresh or refrigerated rather than freezing it.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring between intervals. Heat leftovers to 165°F.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

The original recipe calls for fresh spinach. Frozen spinach may work, but the amount and preparation would need to be adjusted. I haven’t verified that substitution for this recipe.

What should I serve with spinach artichoke dip?

Crackers and slices of bread are both great options. You could also serve it with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips.

Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it to the slow cooker?

No. For this recipe, the fresh spinach goes directly into the slow cooker. You’ll stir it into the dip after the first hour of cooking.

How long does spinach artichoke dip take in the slow cooker?

The original recipe lists approximately 2 to 2½ hours on LOW, with a stir after the first hour. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker.

Can I make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time?

You can prepare the dip ahead and refrigerate it promptly after cooking, then reheat it thoroughly before serving. For the best texture, stir well as it warms.

More Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:

• Easy Cheese Ball Recipe
• Olive Garden Cheese Fonduta Recipe
• Layered Taco Dip Appetizer Cups
• Bacon Cheeseball Bites
• Bacon Ranch Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

    

Saving money on groceries can feel really hard right now… but Amazon grocery deals are one of my favorite ways to save without even leaving the house.

You can often find cheap pantry staples, snacks, baking items, and household essentials for less than store prices, especially when Amazon runs limited time sales.

Right now, Amazon is offering FREE Delivery on order over $25.

I check these deals often because prices change fast, and sometimes they are really good.

Today’s Best Amazon Grocery Deals

Here are some of the best grocery deals I am finding right now. I update this list often, so check back throughout the day for new deals.

If you’ve been waiting for a good price on pop, this could be a great time to stock up!

These 12 packs are dropping 40% off and starting at $3.83 each when you buy three and use Subscribe & Save.

• Mountain Dew
• Pepsi
• Caffeine Free Diet Coke
• Pepsi Zero Sugar
• Dr Pepper Zero Sugar
• 7UP Zero Sugar
• Coca-Cola
• Diet Coke
• Sprite
• Coca-Cola Zero Sugar

Prices, coupons, and availability can change quickly, so check the final price before placing your order.

Stock up on sugar for holiday baking!

Buy four, save 10% automatically in your cart, and choose Subscribe & Save to get:

• Powdered Sugar, 2 lb: $1.76 each
• Light Brown Sugar: $1.76 each
• Dark Brown Sugar, 2 lb: $1.76 each
• White Sugar, 4 lb: $2.52 each

Prices include shipping.

• Turkey Stuffing Mix only $0.73 shipped!
• Chicken Stuffing Mix only $0.60 shipped!
• Chopped Walnuts, 8 oz only $2.99 shipped!
• Sweet Brown Butter Cashews only $2.49 shipped!
• Ruffles Original Potato Chips (Pack of 40) only $9.58 shipped!
  

Nutri-Grain Soft Baked Breakfast Bars, 32 count for just $5.99 shipped! That’s only $1.49 per box!

Strawberry Toaster Pastries, 8 Count for only $1.12 shipped when you clip the 15% off e-coupon and check out through Subscribe & Save!

Reese’s Puffs Breakfast Cereal (11.5 oz) for just $2.84 shipped when you check out through Subscribe & Save!

All Purpose Flour, 2 Lb for just $0.95 shipped when you clip the 15% off e-coupon and check out through Subscribe & Save!

Kraft Mac & Cheese is dropping to just $0.90 per box when you check out through Subscribe & Save!

Shop all Amazon Grocery Deals.

Why Amazon Is Great for Grocery Deals

One of the best things about shopping Amazon for groceries is how easy it is to compare prices and find discounts in one place.

You can often find:

• Pantry staples for less than store prices.
• Bulk deals to help you stock up.
• Limited time discounts you will not see in stores.

Plus, everything is delivered right to your door, which saves both time and gas money.

How to Save More with Subscribe and Save

One of my favorite ways to save even more is with Amazon Subscribe and Save.

When you choose this option, you get an extra discount just for scheduling your item to be delivered. This works great for things you use all the time like snacks, coffee, or pantry staples.

And here is the best part…
You can cancel anytime after your first order ships.

So you can grab the discount without being locked into anything long term.

Can You Use EBT on Amazon

Yes, you can use EBT on Amazon for many grocery items, which can make things even easier for families.

If you already receive SNAP benefits, this is a simple way to shop for groceries online and have them delivered right to your door.

You can read more about how it works here.

Is Amazon Prime Worth It for Grocery Deals

If you shop Amazon often, having an Amazon Prime membership can help you save even more.

With Prime, you usually get:

• Free shipping on most items.
• Faster delivery.
• Access to special deals.

That means more savings and fewer trips to the store.

Check Back Often for the Best Amazon Grocery Deals

I will be updating this page regularly with the best Amazon grocery deals I find.

Deals can sell out or change quickly, so it is a good idea to check back often. You never know what great deal might pop up next.

    

Every year, it seems like Christmas spending starts with gifts and somehow turns into so much more!

There are stocking stuffers, groceries for Christmas dinner, teacher gifts, wrapping paper, and that cute little decoration you weren’t planning to buy.

None of those purchases seem like a big deal on their own.

But together, they can take a pretty big bite out of your budget.

This year, Rich and I are intentionally scaling back on Christmas spending.

And one thing I’ve realized is that it’s not always the big gifts that throw off the budget.

Sometimes it’s all those little purchases we don’t think about ahead of time.

I want to enjoy Christmas without spending January trying to catch up!

A Christmas budget should include everything you expect to spend because of the holiday.

It doesn’t have to be complicated or take the fun out of Christmas. It just helps you decide where your money will go before you start spending it.

Start With What You Can Afford

Before making your shopping list, figure out how much money you can reasonably put toward Christmas.

Not sure how much you should budget for Christmas this year?

My Christmas Budget Calculator can help you figure out how much you can spend and make a plan before you start shopping.

Look at what you already have saved and what you can set aside between now and the holiday after covering your regular bills and needs.

Try not to start with everything you want to buy and then figure out how to pay for it. Start with the money you have available and build your plans around that amount.

Whether you have $300 or $800 to spend, start with what you can actually afford and make your Christmas plans fit that amount.

Your Christmas budget does not have to look like anyone else’s. It needs to work for your household.

You can use my free printable budget planner to look at your regular expenses and see what room you have for holiday spending.

Check What You Already Have

Before buying anything, take a little inventory.

Check the closet where you tuck away gifts throughout the year. Look through your wrapping supplies, decorations, and pantry.

You might already have:

• Gifts you bought on clearance.
• Gift bags and tissue paper you saved.
• Wrapping paper left from last Christmas.
• Decorations you forgot about.
• Baking ingredients you can use.
• Supplies for homemade gifts.

Make a note of what you find and who any gifts could go to.

A gift bought months ago is easy to forget when you are scrolling through holiday deals. Checking first can keep you from buying twice for the same person.

Make a Gift List With Spending Limits

Write down everyone you plan to give a gift to, then assign an amount to each person.

Include the people outside your immediate family, too. Teachers, neighbors, coworkers, hosts, and gift exchanges can all become part of your holiday spending.

You don’t have to spend the same amount on everyone. You can also decide that some people will receive a homemade treat, a thoughtful note, or a small shared gift.

Your list might look something like this:

These amounts are just examples. Choose amounts that fit your total budget.

Once you’ve bought someone’s gift, cross them off your list! You don’t need to keep adding things just because you find another good deal.

Give Stocking Stuffers Their Own Budget

Stocking stuffers are easy to underestimate.

A few dollars for candy, a little toy, some lip balm, and a pair of socks can add up quickly when you are filling several stockings.

Decide how much you want to spend per stocking before shopping. Then multiply that amount by the number you plan to fill.

For example, four stockings at $15 each need a $60 place in your Christmas budget.

You can include useful items you would buy anyway, but count the spending somewhere in your household budget. Moving a purchase into a stocking doesn’t make it free.

Plan for Holiday Food

Christmas food spending can go well beyond one dinner.

Think about what you expect to make or bring throughout the season:

• Christmas dinner and breakfast.
• Cookie exchanges.
• Food for parties or gatherings.
• Homemade food gifts.
• Snacks and drinks for guests.
• A dish you promised to bring somewhere.

Check your pantry before making your grocery list, and look for recipes that use some of the same ingredients.

You can also simplify the menu. A few favorite dishes can make a wonderful meal without needing every side, dessert, and appetizer you can think of.

For your budget, count the extra food spending above what you normally spend on groceries. If your usual grocery money covers part of the meal, you don’t need to count that same money twice.

Include Wrapping, Packaging, and Postage

Wrapping supplies are another expense that often gets left off the list.

Think about wrapping paper, tape, gift bags, tissue paper, tags, and any containers you need for homemade gifts.

If you mail gifts or Christmas cards, include postage and shipping costs, too.

Before buying more supplies, use what you have. A saved gift bag or a simple paper bag can still make a gift feel special.

For homemade food gifts, include the packaging when you calculate the cost per gift. The cookies might be inexpensive, but tins, jars, and ribbon can change the total.

Choose the Activities That Matter Most

There are plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas, but you don’t have to pay for all of them.

Talk with your family about the traditions you most want to keep. Then figure out what those plans will cost.

That might include tickets, parking, gas, meals while you are out, or supplies for an activity at home.

A Christmas movie night, looking at neighborhood lights, or baking together can be something to look forward to without requiring a big purchase.

Leave room for the traditions you care about most. It is easier to pass on other activities when you have already decided what matters to your family.

Remember Decorations, Clothing, and Travel

Not every household will spend money in these categories, but they are worth considering before you finish your budget.

Will you buy a Christmas tree? Do you need to replace a broken string of lights? Are you planning to buy matching pajamas or clothes for a gathering?

If you are traveling, think about transportation, lodging, meals, and any other costs you will need to cover.

These expenses can still fit into your plan. The important part is deciding on them ahead of time instead of treating every purchase as an exception.

Leave a Little Room for the Unexpected

Even with a good list, something may come up.

You might remember a gift exchange, get invited to another gathering, or need an ingredient you thought was in the pantry.

If possible, leave a small amount unassigned for those expenses.

That money is part of your total Christmas budget. It gives you some flexibility without increasing the amount you planned to spend.

If your budget doesn’t have room for a cushion, an unexpected expense may mean reducing another category.

Put Your Christmas Budget Together

Think about it. An extra $10 for stocking stuffers, $15 for wrapping supplies, $20 for Christmas baking ingredients, and $25 for a last-minute gift adds up to $70 you might not have planned to spend. And that’s before all the other little things that pop up during December!

Here is an example of how a $500 Christmas budget could be divided:

This example doesn’t include travel. If travel is part of your Christmas plans, give it a category and adjust the other amounts.

Your numbers may look completely different. You might spend more on food and less on gifts, or use decorations and wrapping supplies you already own.

The goal is to make sure your planned spending fits the money you have available.

Track Your Spending as You Go

Keep a running total as you shop.

A notebook, your phone, or a simple spreadsheet can work. Record the purchase, its full cost, and the category it belongs to.

Include sales tax and shipping when they apply.

If you budget $40 for a gift and buy it for $28, record the $28 you spent. You don’t have to find another $12 worth of gifts to reach the limit.

Coming in under budget is a good thing.

Check your remaining money before shopping again, especially during big sales. A discount can help you buy something on your list for less, but it can also tempt you to spend money you had planned to keep.

What if Your Plans Cost More Than Your Budget?

If the total is too high, adjust the plan before making the purchases.

You could give fewer gifts, choose smaller gifts, simplify a meal, reuse decorations, or replace a paid activity with something you can do at home.

If other people are involved in your plans, have those conversations early. Setting a gift exchange limit or asking everyone to bring a dish can make the season more affordable for several households.

You can give yourself permission to do less.

Christmas can still be meaningful when the gifts are smaller, the food is simpler, and the calendar has a little breathing room.

We’re actually putting this into practice ourselves this Christmas! Rich and I are buying fewer gifts, shopping secondhand when we can, and focusing more on making memories together.

I shared more about our plans in my latest Christmas YouTube video.

 

Make Your Plan Before the Holiday Spending Begins

You don’t need to have every gift figured out today.

Start by choosing a total you can afford, checking what you already have, and writing down the expenses you expect. Then use that plan as you shop and make decisions throughout the season.

My free printable budget planner can help you see how Christmas spending fits alongside your regular household needs.

I want to enjoy the season and feel good about the choices I made when January arrives. Planning for the little extras is one way to help make that happen.

What Christmas expense tends to sneak up on you each year?