Holiday Spending to Remain Steady Despite Economic Uncertainty, According to Bankrate's 2025 Report
As the holiday season approaches, Americans are gearing up for a spending spree. However, despite economic uncertainty and rising prices, many consumers remain optimistic about their holiday plans.
According to Bankrate's 2025 Holiday Travel Survey, only 21% of respondents plan to travel for Thanksgiving or the December holidays this year, down from 27% in 2024. This decline is particularly notable among younger generations, with Gen Zers and millennials being the most likely to opt out of travel.
Despite the reduced travel plans, holiday shoppers remain enthusiastic about spending money on gifts and decorations. In fact, 79% of respondents plan to shop during the holiday season, with nearly half of them starting their shopping before October 31st.
Bankrate's survey also reveals that credit cards are the preferred method for holiday travel, with 63% of respondents opting for this payment option. Debit cards and cash are also popular choices, with rewards points and buy now, pay later services being less common.
However, consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about rising prices and debt. More than a third of shoppers (31%) expect to take on debt during the holiday season, with millennials and middle-income earners being more likely to accrue debt.
To mitigate these concerns, Bankrate recommends several strategies for smart holiday shopping:
1. Set aside money ahead of time
2. Start shopping early
3. Stay flexible with travel schedules
4. Try secondhand shopping
5. Use a rewards credit card
By following these tips, consumers can avoid impulse buying and make the most of their holiday budget.
In conclusion, while economic uncertainty remains a concern, Bankrate's 2025 Holiday Travel Survey suggests that many Americans are choosing to prioritize saving money over splurging during the holiday season.
As the holiday season approaches, Americans are gearing up for a spending spree. However, despite economic uncertainty and rising prices, many consumers remain optimistic about their holiday plans.
According to Bankrate's 2025 Holiday Travel Survey, only 21% of respondents plan to travel for Thanksgiving or the December holidays this year, down from 27% in 2024. This decline is particularly notable among younger generations, with Gen Zers and millennials being the most likely to opt out of travel.
Despite the reduced travel plans, holiday shoppers remain enthusiastic about spending money on gifts and decorations. In fact, 79% of respondents plan to shop during the holiday season, with nearly half of them starting their shopping before October 31st.
Bankrate's survey also reveals that credit cards are the preferred method for holiday travel, with 63% of respondents opting for this payment option. Debit cards and cash are also popular choices, with rewards points and buy now, pay later services being less common.
However, consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about rising prices and debt. More than a third of shoppers (31%) expect to take on debt during the holiday season, with millennials and middle-income earners being more likely to accrue debt.
To mitigate these concerns, Bankrate recommends several strategies for smart holiday shopping:
1. Set aside money ahead of time
2. Start shopping early
3. Stay flexible with travel schedules
4. Try secondhand shopping
5. Use a rewards credit card
By following these tips, consumers can avoid impulse buying and make the most of their holiday budget.
In conclusion, while economic uncertainty remains a concern, Bankrate's 2025 Holiday Travel Survey suggests that many Americans are choosing to prioritize saving money over splurging during the holiday season.
. I mean, it's like they're trying to make up for something or prove a point. But seriously, 31% of folks thinking about taking on debt during the holidays? That's just plain crazy 
. We need to stop pretending that buying stuff is gonna solve all our problems and start making some real changes. Like, have you seen the prices of housing lately? 
We should be focusing on affordable living over flash sales and credit card debt.