Overspending and the holidays often go hand in hand.

"It's too easy for people to say, 'Oh, I'll just get this one more gift for so and so,'" But how about promising yourself a frugal holiday instead? While it's common to associate  frugal with cheap, experts say there's a big difference between the two. "Being frugal means being budget-conscious, getting the most for your money without having  to sacrifice your taste," says bargain-shopping expert .

"Being cheap is buying any old thing, regardless of its quality or suitability." A good general rule is to avoid spending more than you can pay off in a month or two.

1. Keep an eye on sales
    It may seem obvious, but store circulars are a great source for holiday bargains.

2.Surf for savings
   It's no wonder that people are shopping online -- no crowds, deals found at a click, 
  free shipping. But it's not just about buying. The Internet allows you to comparison 
  shop without having to visit the mall, a great way to save time as you stretch the budget.   
  Get to know store policies It pays to shop at stores that match competitors' advertised       
  prices and offer price adjustments. Make the thought count In many cases, simply
  putting extra thought into your shopping can result in gifts that are cheaper and more   
  personal. Good wine can also be had for less than $20.

3.Shop late
   Last-minute discounts are expected. And as early as Dec. 21, online shoppers can expect
    to find after-Christmas sales.

 4.List everyone you are planning on gifting.
   • Brainstorm gift ideas for each person and assign an amount of money you are thinking of 
     spending on them.
   • Add up all potential gift amounts.
   • Brainstorm other holiday costs, from decorating and entertaining to travel and charitable 
     giving.
   • Add the amount of your other holiday costs to your gift amount and then step back. If you
     are uncomfortable with this amount, go back over your list and trim it.