Squeezing every purchase into a few hectic weeks puts a lot of pressure on a single month's budget. It also tends to lead to rushed decisions and last-minute buys at whatever price is available.

Shopping a little at a time throughout the year can ease that strain. Clearance sales after a season ends, end-of-summer deals and off-season markdowns can be good moments to pick up gifts you know someone will enjoy. Many people keep a designated spot at home for stashing these early finds.

Pair this with a small automatic transfer into a separate holiday savings account each payday. By the time the season arrives, much of the shopping may be done and the rest can be paid for with cash you've already set aside. Just keep notes on what you've bought and where you've hidden it, so you don't double up on gifts or forget about something tucked in the back of a closet.