If you’ve ever heard the advice, “Never go to the grocery store without a list or when you’re hungry,” chances are you know why: you’re likely to buy more than you need and spend more, too. The same advice applies when you’re shopping for the holidays. Whether you’re shopping at the mall, online, or by phone or mail, a little planning and know-how can help you deliver a holiday season that’s on budget and maybe even a little less stressful. By making a shopping list, creating — and sticking to — a realistic budget, and looking for good values, you may be able to avoid the headache that could come with post-holiday debt. List the people you plan to buy gifts for, the type of gifts you plan to buy, and how much you plan to spend. Include the cost of cash gifts, holiday travel, extra food, wrappings, decorations, greeting cards, and postage. If it relates to the holiday season and it costs money, add it to your budget. Here is some more information to help you prepare for Black Friday: General Buying Tips Shopping the Holiday Sale Ads Tips for Buying and Using Gift Cards Online Holiday Shopping Don't forget to relax a little, too, if you are out shopping among the masses. Instead of cramming in as many stores as you possibly can, plan enough time so that you can take a break when you need to. Sit down, enjoy a warm beverage, and take in the holiday season. Search Black Friday Deals Now: Black Friday Ads Black Friday @ Gotta Deal Resolve Problems: Contact your local consumer office, the Better Business Bureau nearest to you, or here are some other organizations you can contact. Information Courtesy of: Federal Trade Commission Consumer Action Federal Citizen Information Center Click HERE to return to the main Thanksgiving page.

Interested in a little getaway this winter? Check out some snowy sites that are sure to bring you and your family joy this season.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Bike along the Truckee River, hop on a carriage ride, or visit Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum!

Stowe, Vermont
Check out the home of Ben and Jerry, at the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill, or tempt your taste buds with Laughing Moon Chocolates.

Denver, Colorado
See Mile High Stadium, up close and personal, visit the Children's Museum of Denver, or just enjoy the beauty and shopping of the downtown area.

Sun Valley, Idaho
Do some fly fishing with Silver Creek Outfitters, hike or bike at Sun Valley White Clouds, or go indoors and take up some bowling at Sun Valley Lodge.

Minneapolis, Minnesota
Visit the largest mall in America ... the Mall of America! With more than 500 stores, an indoor theme park, aquarium, and a miniature golf course, it will be a sure hit for the whole family!

Check out some other fun destinations and more about the destinations above here!

- Properly dressed?

- Is the sled cracked or damaged?

- Feet first!

- Wear Layers

- Buddy system!

- Purchase the best sled.

CLICK HERE for all of the details about snow sledding!