Hoping to score the best toys for 2013(squidoo.com/top-toys-for-christmas-list)? Don’t wait till the toys are sold out. Start looking for the toys now. Time has gone by so fast. It's hard to believe that Christmas is almost here. It is already October. We know it isn’t even Halloween yet. However, if you plan ahead, you can avoid a lot of heartache down the road. This means that is time to stop procrastinating and start planning to shop now.

The hot holiday toys lists are already out. If you start planning for the holidays now, you can be sure that you won't overspend. Most people tend to overspend when they don’t stick to a plan. The holidays are supposed to be a time for spending time with the family. Gifts are an important part of our consumer culture, but most people spend the holidays worrying how they are going to buy all the gifts. Instead, we should be baking cookies for the kids and our families.

We recommend that you start a budget. The easiest way to do this is by using excel. We found that there are many different templates online. Take a moment to start creating a list of items that you wish to buy. First compile a list of all of the people that you wish to get a gift for. You don't have to buy the gifts all at the same time and you don’t have to buy everyone a gift. Remember to always leave enough money for the necessities like food and water. Also, remember to plan for Thanksgiving and other family get-togethers.

Try to get good deals on items that you are going to be using even if you have to freeze them to preserve them. If you buy things ahead, you can score great deals. You can even buy your Turkey early and store it in your freezer. If you plan to travel, try to book flights as early as possible. Don't wait till November to book flights.

This year when buying toys, take advantage of layaway programs. Both ToysRus and Walmart are offering one. These programs usually require a small deposit. However, you are allowed to pay the rest of the amount over a certain period of time without having to worry about interest. If you can, try to shop for your toys before the end of October. Never overpay for an extremely hot toy. If it is on ToysRus hot holiday list consider reserving the toy in the store. This year early shoppers are being rewarded more than ever before. If you can’t find a hot toy, never buy it on eBay. You are going to end up overpaying. Wait until the holidays die down, and purchase the toy on clearance.

Don't wait till the end of November to make your purchases, because you are going to end up paying more. Start looking for sales right now. Go check the clearance sections of stores or even online. More and more people are shopping online. Make sure you check online stores to find the best prices for hot toys and other gifts.