Nearly of half of America starts their holiday shopping in October or earlier

INDIANAPOLIS — It's not even Halloween and some of us are already holiday shopping .

A new WalletHub survey found that 47% of respondents begin their holiday shopping in October or earlier — long before the Black Friday rush.

The reasons? To save money and avoid stress around the holiday.

The survey also found most people expect their budget to be the same or less than last year.

About 28% of people said they plan to stick to a strict budget this season — the same percentage still paying off last year’s holiday debt.

Chip Lupo with WalletHub said to make every purchase with intention.

"When it comes to shopping early, don't impulse buy. Don't assume that this is your last chance to get this item at this price," Lupo said. "It'll come around again."

He also suggests maintaining a lis