WalletHub Survey: 52% of Americans Fear Inflation Will Ruin Holidays

A new WalletHub survey indicates that 52% of Americans believe inflation will negatively impact their upcoming holiday season. The data reveals a group of consumers who are cautious about spending while managing ongoing financial obligations from previous festive periods.

Three key findings stand out in the report. First, 79% of respondents stated their current holiday budget is the same size as last year’s or smaller. Second, one in four participants reported they are still paying off debt incurred during the previous holiday season. Third, 41% of people typically begin their holiday shopping in October or earlier, a trend driven by the desire to save money.

John Kiernan, managing editor at WalletHub, noted that early shopping remains a viable strategy for those who have not started yet. “More than two in three people believe early holiday shopping saves them money overall,” Kiernan said. He emphasized that consumers are primarily motivated by the opportunity to find better deals rather than just convenience.

The survey also touched on consumer attitudes toward technology. Fifty-six percent of respondents said they do not trust artificial intelligence to assist with their holiday shopping decisions. This skepticism suggests a preference for traditional research methods or personal judgment when selecting gifts and managing holiday expenses.

Kiernan advised consumers to plan ahead and stick to what they can afford. The data shows a clear shift toward fiscal discipline, with the majority of Americans actively monitoring their spending to prevent new debt accumulation. The findings suggest that the holiday season will be defined by careful budgeting for more than half of the U.S. population.