20 ways to trim your holiday budget

We've got some tips to make the holiday season a memorable one without blowing the budget:

Make a list (and check it twice): It's good advice any time of year -- develop a budget and stick to it. Start by making a list of holiday expenses (like food, travel and gifts) so you can estimate your costs and devise a plan to handle them without wracking up debt. Put the plan in writing to keep expectations -- and spending -- in check.

Set limits: Whom to buy for and how much to spend can be touchy subjects, but now is the time to have some frank conversations. Is it time to buy for the kids only, draw names out of a hat or go with a theme like "gag gifts only"? Should you put a cap on spending, or have a "buy nothing" celebration? Chances are friends and family members are also feeling the pinch and may be more open to alternatives this year.

Start saving now: If you haven't already started setting money aside, financial experts suggest starting as soon as possible. Many people rely on credit cards to see them through the holidays, then end up compounding the problem with interest charges (pun intended). Rather than sacrificing in January, start cutting back on non-essentials now and put money aside for holiday spending.

Pay cash: It's a great visual reminder to spend smart and avoid impulse buying. Research shows that when we have to pay cash we often spend less and put more thought into decisions. If you're buying big ticket items, ask the store if they offer a discount for paying cash. Many stores are happy to offer you a modest discount instead of paying fees to credit card companies.