Who’s ready for Turkey Day? I know I can’t wait for that juicy Turkey breast (unless you’re a leg fan), creamy mashed potatoes, delightful cranberry sauce, sparkling apple-cider, some crispy green beans or any other delightful sides we can think of. And we can’t forget the pumpkin pie!

Now, I know I probably have your mouth watering at this point (hopefully) but I have to bring this wonderful family holiday down a road we often don’t discuss when it comes to tradition, which is what is it going to cost me?

Now before you come running at my door with pitchforks and flaming torches in hand, I’m not saying we should place a price tag on family (because they’re lovable and priceless) but I am saying we should be more AWARE of our spending habits during Thanksgiving.

First and foremost, let me point out some interesting stats. According to Business Insider, the average American eats approximately $17 worth of turkey during the holiday weekend, that’s 16 pounds of gobble gobble! But your friendly neighborhood turkey is not the main issue. Our sensitive points of spending beyond our means during this holiday is either on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, which is recently rising in popularity. 

Add in the cost of travel and we’re left with empty pockets. Well, this Thanksgiving, you can change that! Simply monitor you’re spending, budget beforehand and stick to it! Don’t get sucked into the flashing lights and catchy jingles surrounding you. 

Make sure to ask yourself, “do I really need this?” before each and every purchase to make sure you do not overspend on random ‘stuff’ only what you need for the winter moving forward.

Now if you truly must shop ‘till you drop, wait for Cyber Monday, which is shown to have better sales. Best thing of all, you won’t get trampled on by hundreds of screaming customers and have to practice your right hook on a stranger for a pair of shoes in your size. I hope this helps!

 

Photo Credits from Top:   Wired.com; Mike Flacey (Ben'sBargain.net)