Beware: What people may do this holiday season

Though some people may be struggling to pay pills amid a recession sparked by a global pandemic, it doesn't mean those in a stronger financial position (or not) won't be running up their credit cards and breaking their piggy banks -- whether online or at the mall.

And, ironically, it's all in the name of scoring holiday deals.

Here's what many shoppers fail to realize: Sales are just ploys to get us to buy stuff we may not necessarily want or need.

We go into a store intending to buy or two things and end up coming out with well over five.

We set a maximum holiday budget, but end up blowing right through it as we aim to take advantage of as many "bargains" as we possibly can.

Now, that's not to say we shouldn't seize a good deal for stuff that we use regularly.

But if you know it's an item you'll stuff in a drawer or closet -- one you might not even remember you have in six months' time -- you should pass on it.

Here are four valuable holiday shopping tips:

1. Spend below your means. Stick to a budget. We all want to get loved ones the very best stuff, but who's to say they won't enjoy something that's a tad cheaper? Those who truly value you won't care whether your gift to them came from Coach or Target. It's the thought that ultimately counts.

2. Clip coupons only for stuff you intend or need to buy. Whether you snag them online or from a flyer in the mail, coupons help us save dough. However, don't fall into the habit of couponing just for the sake of saving on items you don't plan to use. Indeed, marketers want us to think we come out winning by saving on a slew of products. But the truth is that if we end up hundreds if not thousands of dollars in the hole, they're the ones left saying "ka-ching!"

3. Don't be enticed by those pesky ads. Companies are adept at making emotional appeals through their advertising in order to get us to part with our cash. Before you head to the store or check out on Amazon, ask yourself whether you're only buying the product because of promises/claims made in the ad that may never materialize.

4. Don't give into the temptation to keep up with the Joneses. Just because your neighbor bought a new car (or it was gifted to them) doesn't mean selling your five-year old vehicle is in order. Following the herd is never a wise strategy, especially when it comes to holiday shopping.

5. Consider more meaningful (and economical) ways to give to those you love. Maybe it's by making a donation to their charity of choice, baking their favorite cookies, or painting their fence for them. The nicest gestures don't necessarily have to carry big price tags.

The real meaning of the holidays -- family, togetherness, faith -- has gotten lost in the shuffle of commercialism. And with retailers like Amazon and Wal-Mart promising to deliver your items the day after you purchase them, heavy spending has become all too alluring for some.

Remember to assess whether you really need the items in your shopping cart, even if they're on sale. And if advertising has prompted you to set your sights on the most pricey products or brands, go back to the drawing board and see if you can snare stuff that is easier on the wallet.

Happy shopping -- and saving!

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