The holiday season is a time for joy, giving, and sharing, but it can also be a time of financial stress if not approached carefully.
As we enter this exciting time of year, UnaCash, an in-app and in-store financial solutions provider, is here to share relevant reminders during the holidays.
These essential steps can protect you from financial pitfalls, and enjoy a hassle-free holiday shopping experience.
Here are some practical tips to help you manage your finances this holiday season:
Plan Ahead and Stick to a Budget
Creating a budget is the first step toward responsible holiday shopping. By setting limits on how much you plan to spend and keeping track of your expenses, you’ll be able to enjoy the season without feeling the strain on your wallet. It is never too late to create a budget that works for you. Make sure to include all the big-ticket items, as well as smaller, everyday purchases, and track your spending along the way.
Be Careful When Paying
Whether shopping online or in-store, it’s important to be cautious with your payment details. Always protect your personal information—avoid entering payment details in public spaces and be sure to use secure websites when shopping online. Review the terms and conditions, and ensure that security measures on processing online payment are in place. It is also advisable to save receipts and order confirmations for future reference.
Take Advantage of the Holiday Offers
Take advantage of sales, promotions, and special holiday offers. Many stores offer discounts, price matching, or loyalty rewards during the holiday season. Be sure to compare prices and see if you can find better deals elsewhere. Shopping in bulk or shopping early will potentially help one save more.
Avoid Last-Minute Shopping
Rushed decisions often lead to overspending. Last-minute shopping can push you into making impulsive buys or paying higher prices. Planning ahead gives you the chance to compare prices and avoid the stress of making quick, uninformed purchases. A little pre-planning can save you a lot of money!
Make the Most of Payment Options
With the rise of online shopping, the options for purchasing products have expanded. Before making a purchase, research the best deals on the market and use online comparison tools to find the best prices. Take advantage of promotions, seasonal discounts, and offers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Additionally, the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options can help you spread the cost of purchases over time without accumulating interest if used correctly. This can help ease the burden of high prices while managing your budget efficiently.
Stay Informed About New Financial Products
This holiday season, explore financial tools and services that could benefit your spending habits. Virtual credit lines, payment plans, and other digital financial products can offer payment flexibility. Be sure to research the terms and benefits of these services before committing to ensure they are a good fit for your financial situation.
“Holiday spending is definitely meant to bring joy and excitement. With thoughtful planning, you can embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy all the festive moments without the worry of overspending or unnecessary stress,” according to UnaCash channel manager Sean Plantado. “By following just a few simple financial habits, you can celebrate in a way that’s both joyful and responsible — allowing every Filipino to create lasting memories with loved ones while keeping your finances in check.”
One way to shop smarter this holiday season is through the UnaCash Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) option. This feature allows you to spread the cost of your purchases over time, making it easier to manage your personal budget without the strain of big-ticket purchases. In fact, a survey we conducted earlier this year revealed that 86.7% of consumers view BNPL as an effective budget management tool.
Visit the official UnaCash Facebook page to see the list of partner merchants and locations where you can take advantage of our BNPL services, along with amazing deals from our trusted partner merchants!