As the holiday season approaches, the pressure to spend spikes. This year, gift-buying Americans plan to spend $660 on average.

That's according to new data from NerdWallet's 2017 Consumer Holiday Shopping Report, which analyzed spending and behavior trends of more than 2,000 Americans aged 18 and over.

And holiday-induced debt is a growing problem. Although survey respondents say they plan to spend roughly the same amount as they spent last year, 24 percent of shoppers say they overspent in 2016, while 27 percent admit to not making a budget at all.

Debt can also be emotionally heavy and a source of stress in your relationships.

To keep from falling into red this shopping season, follow this primary rule:

Make a good budget and stick to it

Decide how much you can afford to spend on holiday gifts, decorations, charitable contributions and packaging, and don't exceed that limit. "In the often-recommended 50/30/20 budget, gift purchases fall into the 'wants' category and should not exceed 30 percent of your monthly income," NerdWallet warns.

Story Date: November 20, 2017