It’s only November… but the adverts and sales have already begun, tempting us into Christmas spending traps long before the big day arrives.
From festive TV ads to TikTok creator hauls of pricey advent calendars, the season now seems to start earlier every year.
Retailers know Christmas is emotional — and that’s exactly why the pressure to spend ramps up fast.
That’s exactly why the marketing push begins months in advance, to encourage us to spend more, sooner, and often on things we don’t really need.
So, how do you keep the Christmas spirit without falling into the trap of overspending online?
Why Christmas keeps “starting” earlier
Retailers rely heavily on the Christmas period for profits.
Starting the season in September means:
- More time to spend: Spreading adverts over three or four months gives more chances to tempt you.
- Building urgency: Phrases like “limited edition” or “must-have” items create fear of missing out (FOMO).
- Normalising high prices: Expensive advent calendars or gift sets become more familiar the longer we see them, making them feel “worth it.”
The online sales trap
Social media, TikTok Shops, and influencer adverts make festive spending even harder to resist:
- TikTok Shops: Quick, one-click purchases feel fun in the moment, but the small amounts add up fast.
- Influencer unboxings: Watching someone open a £300 advent calendar can make us feel like we should be doing the same.
- Flash sales: Countdown timers on websites are designed to push us into buying before we think.
How to protect yourself (and your bank account)
Here are some practical ways to stay in control:
Pause before you buy
Save the item to a wishlist and wait 24 hours. Often, the urge to buy fades once the excitement wears off.
Set a Christmas budget early
Decide how much you can actually afford this year, and stick to it. Divide it between gifts, food, and extras like decorations.
Spot the tricks
If you see phrases like “limited stock” or “one-day only,” remember these are usually sales tactics. If you really need it, it will still be available later.
Unfollow the temptation
If certain accounts or TikTok creators make you feel pressured to buy, mute or unfollow them until after Christmas.
Focus on meaning, not money
The best Christmas moments rarely come from expensive gifts. Think family time, traditions, and thoughtful gestures instead.
The bottom line
Christmas is meant to be joyful, not stressful. Starting the season in September may be good for retailers, but it doesn’t have to control your spending.
By planning ahead, setting limits, and being mindful of online sales tactics, you can enjoy the run-up to Christmas without carrying financial stress into the New Year.
And remember: your Christmas doesn’t have to look like the adverts. It just has to feel right for you and your loved ones.
