It’s understandable if the slight September chill doesn’t quite have you in the holiday spirit, but in a few short months it will be time to start planning for celebrations, whether it involves holiday traditions or other gift-giving rituals. Here are some tips for saving money and trimming expenses now so the holidays don’t catch you off guard.

1. Review and Adjust Your Budget

Look at your spending patterns over the past few months and identify areas where you can cut back. Consider reducing discretionary expenses like dining out, entertainment, and subscription services. Allocate these savings towards a holiday fund so you’re not scrambling to cover costs when December rolls around.

2. Automate Your Savings

Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to a dedicated savings account specifically for holiday expenses. Even a small amount each week will add up by the time the holidays arrive. And once the holidays are over, maintaining the automatic transfer is a great way to increase emergency savings.

3. Embrace Energy Efficiency

When temperatures drop, heat bills rise. Be proactive and implement energy-efficient practices now, many of which are DIY projects. Seal drafts around windows and doors, replace air filters, and consider installing a programmable thermostat. These small changes can significantly reduce your energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills throughout the fall and winter.

4. Plan Holiday Shopping Early

One of the biggest financial strains during the holiday season is last-minute shopping. Avoid the rush and potential overspending by starting your holiday shopping in the fall. Make a list, look for sales, use coupons, and take advantage of discounts during seasonal promotions. By spreading out your purchases over several months, you can avoid the shock of large bills in December and January.

5. Declutter and Sell Unused Items

Fall is a great time to declutter your home. Go through closets, garages, and storage spaces to identify items you no longer need or use. Consider selling these items online or at a garage sale. The money you make can be added to your holiday fund, and as a bonus, you’ll have a tidier home before the holidays.

6. Meal Plan and Cook at Home

Cooler weather means it’s okay to heat up the kitchen again! Meal planning and cooking at home can save you a significant amount of money on dining out. Take advantage of seasonal produce, which is often cheaper, and prepare meals in bulk to help reduce your grocery bill.

7. Reevaluate Your Subscriptions

Subscription services can be like quiet thieves, silently draining your bank account each month. Take inventory of all your subscriptions like streaming services, magazines, and gym memberships, to assess which ones you actually use. Consider pausing or canceling those that aren’t essential, even if only temporarily.

8. Take Advantage of the Transocean Discount Marketplace

The closer we get to the winter months, the more we’ll be bombarded with special offers and sales promos. If navigating through several sites seems exhausting, don’t forget the variety of gift options available through your Transocean Discount Marketplace. Whether looking for something tangible, like a laptop, or an experience gained from a theatre or theme park visit, you’ll find an ever-changing variety of deals that can help you cross items off your gift list and save you money in the process. Remember to use Referral Code KWVC9V when you sign in.

With a little planning, discipline, and shrewd shopping, your fall preparation will gift you peace of mind as the holidays approach.