Americans Plan Holiday Gift Limits and Shared Strategies to Save Money

Gift-giving costs are prompting many Americans to discuss spending limits with family and friends during the holiday season. According to a NerdWallet survey conducted online by The Harris Poll, 55% of holiday spenders plan to use at least one money-saving strategy that involves coordinating with loved ones.

Setting a clear per-gift limit is the most common of the strategies described, with 28% of holiday spenders planning to do so with family or friends. Agreeing on an amount in advance can help people with different budgets participate without feeling pressured, and the discussion can be handled by text.

Another 23% plan to buy gifts for children in a family while leaving adults out of the exchange. The approach can help households manage rising costs as more children join a family. Those who still want to include adults could instead choose a shared present, such as a board game or an experience, provided everyone agrees.

Some people are also considering ending individual gift exchanges with at least one friend or relative. Eighteen percent of holiday spenders plan to take this step. An alternative could be replacing a traditional present with a lower-cost shared activity, such as meeting for coffee.

For larger groups, 16% plan to organize a Secret Santa exchange or another format in which each participant buys only one gift. The method can limit the number of purchases, although organizers may need to establish rules about trading or stealing gifts and discourage participants from buying additional presents outside the exchange.

Twelve percent plan to give one shared gift per family rather than separate presents for each person. Besides reducing costs, this option can avoid the difficulty of choosing gifts for people whose interests are unfamiliar.

Money can be an uncomfortable subject among relatives and friends. About four in five Americans avoid discussing certain financial topics with them, according to a 2026 survey by the CFP Board. However, holiday spending is already a concern for many people: 86% of holiday spenders plan to use at least one money-saving strategy this season.

Starting the conversation early and presenting it as a way to make the exchange work for everyone may help groups agree on limits before spending begins.

Sources: NerdWallet.