Expert Offers 5 Tips for Holiday Shopping to Avoid Overspending

As the High Holidays approach, families in Israel face the challenge of increased expenses associated with festive meals and gatherings. Sharon Levin from the organization Pa'amonim has outlined five key strategies to help consumers manage their holiday shopping budgets and avoid unnecessary debt.

The first step involves meticulous meal planning. This includes determining the number of meals to be hosted, the number of guests at each, and when one will be a guest. Creating a menu that aligns with the number of diners and accounting for dishes guests may bring can prevent over-purchasing and food waste.

Next, Levin advises transforming the menu into a precise shopping list. This involves itemizing all necessary products and quantities, while first checking existing pantry, refrigerator, and freezer stock. The list should also include non-food items like tablecloths, disposable utensils, and cleaning supplies to avoid forgotten purchases and duplicates.

Consumers are encouraged not to wait until the last minute for shopping. Comparisons of shopping baskets across supermarket chains are published in the weeks leading up to the holidays. Levin recommends monitoring these comparisons close to the shopping date, as prices and promotions can fluctuate. Early planning allows for unhurried price comparisons, reducing the likelihood of rushed, expensive purchases on the eve of the holiday.

When shopping, it is crucial to compare the entire basket of goods, not just individual items. Supermarkets often publish product prices online, enabling consumers to compare the cost of their planned basket across local branches. While splitting purchases between stores might offer savings, it should only be done if the benefit outweighs the costs of delivery, travel, and time. The cheapest individual offer is not always the most cost-effective for the family.

Finally, Levin stresses the importance of sticking to the pre-made list once in the supermarket. Sales on unplanned items still represent an unbudgeted expense. Before adding such items, consumers should consider their necessity, intended use, and whether the price is truly a good deal compared to alternatives. The goal is not to diminish holiday joy but to make informed decisions that benefit the family's financial stability. Pa'amonim emphasizes that while planning can lead to more balanced holiday spending, many families face deeper financial struggles requiring support. The organization is calling for public donations to assist families in financial distress with rehabilitation, financial management skills, and a fresh start.