Put Money Away - Even now, putting a few quid aside from your income each week will build you a little nest egg for the Christmas period. Try it now, and be more prepared next time around - start saving early.

Spend what you can afford - While credit cards are great in that you feel like you're not spending your own money, they will always catch up with you in the end. As much as possible, try to avoid flashing the plastic.

Shop around if you must borrow - If you really do need to borrow money in order to make it through the Christmas period, check out where you may be able to get the best rates of interest. Credit Cards are normally the most expensive forms of finance, so check out what rates you can get on personal loans from Banks, Building Societies and the Credit Union.

Ask what presents people want - When buying presents for family and friends, much as you'd like to surprise people, it's nearly always a better idea to ask people what they'd like. This saves you splashing big on an unwanted gift. If you do want to surprise people, maybe a couple of smaller cheaper presents might satisfy this need, with your "main" present being something the person actually wants.

Make a list. Check it Twice - Firstly, when going shopping, make a list, and stick to those items only. No matter what you’re buying, always have a budget, and keep in your mind how much something is worth to you. Know the price before buying, or else ask immediately while you still have a chance to back out. If you find it’s more than you budgeted for, just say “no thanks”. Don’t feel pressurised – just because you’re at the counter doesn’t mean you have to buy.

Give it Time - Don't get caught out doing last minute shopping. This would put you in danger of splurging or buying ill-considered gifts. If you plan in advance, follow some of these other tips, and give yourself plenty of time in the shops, you'll be looking after your financial health, as well as reducing stress.

Shop Around - Remember that buying "store" or “own” brand can save a bundle. In many instances, the store brand is actually a name brand with a store label. The container or packaging may not be beautiful, but does that really matter? And don’t automatically throw out the vouchers that get posted in your door, or are included in magazines and newspaper advertising – they may actually save you money on items that you normally buy anyway.

Take Advantage of Special Offers - Keep an eye on the special offers offered by shops leading up to Christmas. If the items are something you're looking for, and they truly are offering good value, why not take advantage. Look out for other offers such as free delivery, and free present wrapping service. Every little helps.

Christmas Cards - Don't send them. Who uses the post anymore anyway? And don't be tricked into this "donation to charity" for some Christmas Cards. What can you do? Send a Christmas e-mail, or make a quick phone call, or post a letter - with a little thought, and giving a little news, they'll be just as welcome as a card. And if you want a charity to have some of your money, give it to them direct - they get very little money from charity cards anyway.

Gifts don't have to cost money - If you can't afford to buy presents for everyone, just remember that a good deed or nice thought directed towards someone at Christmas might well be even more valuable to a family member or friend. Just spending time with people you don't normally see during the year might be much more enjoyable to someone you know rather than a cheap box of biscuits.

Be selective with those presents - Remember, you don't have to buy presents for everyone. You should just look after (in whatever manner) those that you really love and care about. For everyone else, wish them the best of the season, and a happy new year.

Going out every night - Is it necessary to be out every night over Christmas? How about inviting people round to your house? You'll be able to catch up easier without the noise of pubs. Or how about arranging a night where everyone invites their friends out to a single location. Everyone together, in one place, on one night, should be of interest to everyone for a good night, as well as looking after finances.

Make Stuff!!! - Always remember that it's possible to make a lot of the necessary Christmas items yourself. You could make Christmas presents for people if you have such skills. You could make your own Christmas Cards. You could make your own Christmas decorations. (Yes, a stretch of the imagination, we know. But remember the buzz you got from making Christmas decorations when you were a kid???).

Value Ireland Favourite - Go Away For Christmas - Almost a case of "out of sight, out of mind". If you can afford to take a trip away from Christmas, you may very well be in a position to save large amounts of money. You'll definitely save on not buying in all that food and drink that you consume over the Christmas. You may also get bargains on your holiday over the holiday season. It's up to you, however, whether or not you want to use the excuse of being away for not buying presents for anyone.