As the leaves fall and the nights draw in, the countdown to Christmas is already well underway. Around one-fifth of Brits start planning for the festive season in November, but we believe October is even better for preparations.

Concerns around the rising cost of living crisis make this organisation essential for many UK households, so you can stagger the financial load and enjoy the holiday without unnecessary stress.

With that in mind, here’s how you can get Xmas sorted in good time.

October

Create a budget

List all potential expenses: gifts, food, decorations and events. This will give you a clear idea of what you can afford and help avoid the dreaded New Year bank statement shock.

Make sure you consider all the little extras that tend to creep up. Don’t forget wrapping paper, postage or last-minute Secret Santa items for work.

Once this is complete, set spending limits for each category. October is the perfect month to start this process, giving you enough time to adjust and save where necessary.

November

Get ahead with present shopping

Shopping early gives you the opportunity to browse with a clear head and find thoughtful products rather than settling for what’s left on the shelves.

This approach not only spreads the cost but also allows you to take advantage of deals in the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

Ordering online? Pay attention to delivery dates, especially with potential strikes and weather disruptions, which have caused delays in recent years.

Plan your Christmas dinner

Food is often the highlight of the big day, so arrange and write your menu by early November. Whether you’re going for a traditional turkey or trying something new, thinking forward means you’ll prevent panic when supermarkets sell out of key provisions.

To make your life even easier, consider Christmas dinner boxes. These can come with everything you need, from starters to desserts, and can save you a lot of time sourcing various ingredients. Just remember to order yours before they sell out.

Organise cards and other supplies

Stock up on beautiful wrapping paper, tags and ribbon while the selections are at their best. Think about buying in bulk to reduce expenses and avoid the crowds in December.

When it comes to cards, why not create a list of who you’re sending them to and aim to get them posted before the festive season? This is a thoughtful way to stay connected, especially to those you may not see over the holidays.

December

Set a calendar for social events

There’s often a whirlwind of shindigs, from corporate parties to family gatherings or catch-ups with friends. Having everything scheduled will make sure you don’t miss out or over-commit.

It’s also important to factor in some rest, as a bit of relaxation is essential to recoup your energy for 2025.