Batten Down The Hatches, Santa's on his way - Diana Clement writes for RaboPlus

Most people will be expecting to buy presents, decorations and a tree, attend Christmas parties, and send cards. And that's just the beginning. The Christmas dinner for an average family will cost over $100 (and for some that's just the alcohol).

Women's clothes shops do a roaring trade in evening dresses and other special clothes and it's the busiest season of the year for Botox purveyors.

Presents have got completely out of hand for many people. What happened to the days when homemade gifts were considered a Christmas treat?

Then there are those children (and adults) who feel so entitled that they'll be offended if you don't buy something incredibly expensive. Give them a sum of money and a card saying it's to be put towards the item they covet. It will teach children a valuable financial lesson.

Gifts of lasting value are a great idea for children as well. That can include everything from Bonus Bonds to fine art, investment funds , and financial books .

Here are some other tips to keep Santa in his place:

• Make a list of everything you need to spend money on and set dollar limits - especially when it comes to presents.
• Buy one present per person.
• Where possible set spending limits with friends and family or agree just to give cards.
• Ask for Christmas lists and make one yourself to ensure your money is well spent. Cheap personalised presents that people will use are better than expensive white elephants.
• Send electronic Christmas cards - or alternatively none at all where possible.
• Make sure you send Christmas cards overseas by the end of November to get discounted postage.
• Make baked presents or crafts. It's not onerous and will impress your friends.

Spending doesn't stop on Christmas Day. Boxing Day sales are an absolute no-no unless you actually have something you've planned to buy. Perusing the sales is downright dangerous - unless you're the sort of person who only ever buys essentials.

Finally, the American's might win hands down at Christmas excesses. But they've also come up with some pretty smart ideas to combat festive season excesses. They've made re-gifting acceptable. That's wrapping up unwanted stuff from your house and giving it to others. Then there are a number of " Buy Nothing Christmas " style initiatives - aimed at putting the spirit back into Christmas.