The Christmas season is a time of year when impulse spending is at its worst. It’s way too easy to impulsively add something to your basket or your online order, and it’s one of the easiest ways to increase your debt obligation. For many consumers, saving during the holidays is unheard of, but there are ways you can minimize the amount of money you spend and the amount of additional debt you take on. Here are 10 of them:

1. Get a prepaid credit card – Afraid your husband might go a little crazy with the credit cards buying you things for Christmas? Maybe your wife has no control when it comes to baby’s first Christmas? A prepaid credit card is the perfect solution. It will curb overspending, and they’ll be no worries about late fees.

2. Know your credit limit – Confirm your limit before you hit the stores, and avoid accidental over-limit spending which can wind up making your APR go significantly higher that it currently is.

3. Cash in on those reward points – Using rewards points is a great way to keep your money in your pocket and still make purchases.

4. Dig out the greenbacks – Although paying with cash isn’t a sign of the times, it’s a perfect way to keep your spending in check this Christmas season. Additionally, you’re less likely to engage in impulse spending when you’ve got to pay for the entire purchase right then and there.

5. Partner Programs – If your credit card issuer has a partner program, now would be the perfect time to cash in on the benefits you get from it. The discounts and bonuses of these programs can be substantial.

6. Online discounts – During the Christmas season many online retailers have significant discount offerings. 

7. Store cards; proceed with caution – Store cards may seem appealing, and a great way to save a little, but these cards normally charge higher interest rates, and if you don’t pay it off in the specified time you’re going to have to pay all that interest on your purchase.

8. Dig for the coupons – Retailers worldwide lure in consumers with all kinds of discounts. Be patient and look around for the best deals.

9. Stick to the traditional – This whole idea of using ipads, ipods and other expensive little gadgets as stocking stuffers is an ideal way to increase your spending. Stick to the traditional stocking stuffers and keep some of your money in your pocket.

10. Narrow your shopping list – Finally, take a good hard look at everyone on your Christmas list. Do you really need to purchase a gift for all of them or will a Christmas card do? You’re boss may be a great person, but does that warrant a gift?