Holiday shopping can be stressful, so here's three tips to help everyone learn how to manage their spending during the holiday season.

Start by setting up a budget. When you don't have a spending plan it's easy to end up with credit-card debt that takes until next May to pay off. One of the main areas where parents tend to overspend is on toys and games, afraid their kids will feel deprived or dissatisfied. But by putting the emphasis on the true meaning of the season, that the holiday is about giving, you'll find it easier to stay on budget and also teach your child to be centered on others and not self-centered.

Next, simplify your list. Studies indicate that if you set up a holiday list, and stick to it, you can save as much as 30 percent on your seasonal spending. Having a list not only helps you remember everyone you want to acknowledge, but it also allows you to think through your gift-giving strategy ahead of time. Make three basic lists: gifts, baked goods/handmade gifts, and cards. Start by putting everyone into one of these categories. A good rule to follow is that if you haven't heard from a person during the past 12 months, they should be removed from the gift category and placed elsewhere.

The final step is to assign price categories to the list, starting with gifts of $5 or less, then $10, $15, and so on. Add up the projected costs and see what your total holiday spending will be. If the number is higher than you expect, make adjustments until your list fits your holiday budget. Then get started—the sooner you get it done, the more you can enjoy the holidays.