GOSHEN — The holiday season is an expensive time of year for most consumers. And, it likely includes more than just gifts, with decorations, entertaining and food to pressure your budget. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), American consumers plan to spend an average of $935.58 during this holiday shopping season, up 4 percent from last year.

“To help you face the holiday shopping season financially, there are many strategies and shopping tips you may want to consider,” suggests Brandon Yoder, vice president of retail operations at Interra Credit Union, headquartered in Goshen.

First, make your list and check it twice. It’s important to plan your holiday budget and know your limitations before you go to the mall or start shopping online. Then stick to it, Yoder advises. Once you align your limits with all the people on your list, you may need to consider making some adjustments. Consider the names on the list and the money you plan to spend. Should you shorten the list or spend less? Make sure your budget and spending plan includes the other extra holiday expenses, too.

Compare prices when you shop. With online apps available, comparison shopping is easier than ever before. Speaking of online shopping, always make sure you’re on a secure site and review your purchase statements when you receive them. The NRF reports that online sales are forecast to increase between 7 and 10 percent over last year. To stretch your shopping dollars, make sure to take advantage of free shipping offers.

It may take a little extra time, but find out when special savings days take place at your favorite retail stores. Especially during the holiday season, online and newspaper coupons can help you save money.

Most experts advise shopping earlier, rather than later, cautioning that when you delay, you pay. Settling for an unplanned item could also mean paying more than you what you allocated. Early shopping also gives you more time to find the right gift and avoid impulsive decisions or settling for something you really didn’t want to buy.

What about after Christmas bargains? Sales abound after the holidays and if you can swing it financially, it may be a great time to stock up on decorations and even gifts for next year. But, don’t buy it just because it’s on sale. Make sure it’s something you will actually use, or give.

The reality of holiday expenses may include credit cards, Yoder noted. Use a lower-interest credit card and pay off your holiday debt as soon into the new year as possible.

“The best choice, of course, is to pay as you go for holiday expenses,” Yoder said. At Interra, more than 3,500 members used the Christmas Club account and saved over $5 million this year. Consider opening an account or establish a similar savings plan if you don’t have one to plan for next year, he added. A specific account, encouraging systematic savings, provides a practical way to save small amounts over time, and the discipline of saving reinforces your good budget intentions.