Whether you hit the stores today or later in the holiday season, financial advisers say the key to avoid overspending is to make a plan ” and stick to it.

“Set a realistic budget first,” said Peggy Johnson, a certified financial planner with American Express Financial Advisors. “Ask yourself what you can afford to spend and, come January, be able to completely pay off.”

Here are some other tips to avoid overspending:

• Give fewer gifts and find alternatives to purchased gifts.
• Get started early. Good deals often are available before the official holiday shopping season begins, and you won’t feel so rushed.
• Look for bargains. Studies have shown major price variations ” often 50 percent or more ” in the same area for identical products.
• Know the stores’ return policies before you buy.
• Avoid buying unnecessary warranties.
• Keep records of all purchases.