19 Nov Balancing Finances and a Feast! Preparing for Thanksgiving Without the Stress
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and good food — not financial regret. Yet for many households, November is the month when spending spirals out of control. Between travel, food, and festivities, it’s easy to overspend or swipe that credit card “just this once.”
The truth is, you can enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving without sacrificing your financial progress — it just takes mindful planning and a few smart money strategies.
1. Start with a Realistic Budget
Before you hit the grocery store or book flights, set a clear spending limit for food, travel, and entertainment. Ask yourself:
- How much can I comfortably spend without using credit?
- Which costs can I share or reduce (e.g., potluck dinners, shared rides)?
Apps like Mint or YNAB can help you track every dollar so you stay on course.
2. Shop with Lists — Not Impulse
Impulse buys are the enemy of budgeting. Make a shopping list and stick to it. Check grocery store flyers for discounts, use coupon apps, and consider buying nonperishables in bulk earlier in the month before prices spike.
3. Travel Smart: Save on Flights and Lodging
Thanksgiving travel can be expensive, but flexible travelers can save big.
- Use tools like Google Flights or Hopper to track fare drops.
- Fly midweek instead of the weekend.
- Book early and avoid baggage fees by packing light.
For road trips, carpooling or fuel reward programs can help cut costs.
4. Don’t Put Dinner on Credit
It might seem harmless to charge a few hundred dollars to a card, but interest adds up fast. Instead:
- Use cash or a debit card for your purchases.
- If you must use a credit card, choose one with cashback or points — and pay it off in full.
5. Budget-Friendly Holiday Fun
You don’t have to spend money to make memories.
- Host a board game night instead of going out.
- Volunteer together at a local food bank.
- Create a gratitude jar and reflect on what you’re thankful for.
6. Bonus: Check Out Level Coaching’s Discount Page
Before booking travel or buying gifts, explore Level Coaching’s discount resources for members — from reduced airfare and hotel rates to shopping savings. Every bit of savings helps you stay debt-free this holiday season.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance — but true abundance isn’t about how much you spend; it’s about what you appreciate. With a plan, a list, and a little discipline, you can enjoy your feast and your finances this year.
Written by Nichole Olds,
November 2025