It’s that time of year again, as shoppers hit the malls in search of their last minute holiday gifts.
Treena Pylychaty is from Estevan, and came to Regina to finish her holiday shopping at Victoria Square Mall. She said her shopping is coming together slowly, but there’s still more to buy.
“I stop and I add to the list, and take away from the list,” she said.
Pylychaty said it’s been a tough year for her family because of the economic downturn with the oil fields.
She’s budgeting and only using debit to avoid overspending this season.
Shopper Rob Meffen said he’s almost done, but said it can be stressful with even a few gifts left so close to Christmas day.
“I guess I do get stressed out just like everybody else to be honest. It is a little stressful,” Meffen said.
READ MORE: How to avoid overspending during the holiday season
With so many sales this holiday season shoppers can save themselves a pretty penny, but according to financial experts, without proper budgeting it can do more harm than good.
Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority credit director Cory Peters said overspending can become an all too familiar story if you’re not prepared.
“There are many pressures during this time of year, whether that’s for gifts or for travel. It can be really easy to get into the month and see that you spent more than you intended too,” Peters said.
A recent report by Statistics Canada found Canadians are spending more than they earn.
READ MORE: Canadians owe $1.67 for every dollar of disposable income: Statistics Canada
According to Peters, one of the ways buyers can protect themselves from overspending is to prepare for it.
He recommends making a list, and checking it twice.
“Keep checking it and going back to it as the season goes on. Make sure the actual expenditures are staying in line,” he said.
Peters advises to spend within your means, and only use credit cards if you know you have the funds to pay for it.
Comments