Holiday spending expected to drop 21% as Americans look to stretch their dollars

Americans expect to spend an average of $879 this holiday season, 21% less than last year, according to a Harris Poll survey. NerdWallet’s Kate Ashford advised shoppers to plan purchases around essential expenses and other financial goals, and warned that discounts can encourage impulse buying. The survey also found more consumers intend to save by skipping holiday travel and staying closer to home. Buy-now-pay-later payments can add up over time.