The True Cost of the Holiday Season

The holiday season is officially among us. While it can be one of the most exciting times of the year filled with joy and family, it can also be extremely expensive. Of course, the costs of gifts and travel are to be expected, but there are several other financial implications associated with the holidays that can catch us all off guard.

If you’re not fully prepared for the financial burden of the season, it can put a real damper on the holly jolly mood of the month. All of the little things can quickly add up and put a huge strain on your budget.

It’s even worse when the costs come when you don’t expect them. You may have been saving up all year to treat your significant other to whatever they’ve been wishing for, but if you don’t consider all of the other expenses along the way, you may have to cut back on the present of their dreams

That’s why it’s always better to be prepared. Here are the things you may not think about that will put a dent in your wallet this holiday season…

Electricity Used by Christmas Lights

If you plan on decking your halls with lights and blow ups to spread cheer through your neighborhood, you’ll have to pay more than the cost of the decorations whenever you bought them. The average electricity cost of running a Christmas light display is approximately $20 in the US, though this price can get as high as $46.62 in Hawaii.

Baking Supplies

No holiday season is complete without an adequate sugar rush. Whether you’re a pro chef or opt for the store-bought sweets, it costs some cash in order to fill Santa’s stomach. On Christmas Eve alone, roughly one billion cookies are set out for Santa each year. All of those cookies require a trip to the grocery store with a few extra expenses that may not be in your regular shopping budget.

Holiday Activities

Whether you and your family loves to go ice skating or get their picture with Santa, there’s surely some tradition to get in the holiday spirit. Whatever it may be, there’s a good chance it costs money. Even if you don’t intend on buying the premium photo package, it’s hard to resist when you see the smile it puts on your kids’ faces.

The important thing to remember is to not let the stress of the finances interfere with the spirit of the holiday. No matter what you do, spend time with the people you love and your holiday season will be merry and bright!