(NC)—While many will be embracing the holidays with tinsel, roast turkey and metres of wrapping paper and ribbons, Canadians spend an average of $587 each on food, gifts and entertainment every holiday season according to a recent TD Holiday Poll.

Christina Panay, Vice President of Credit Cards, TD Canada Trust, offers her advice on how Canadians can use their credit cards wisely to save and maximize their holiday shopping experience this year:

• Redeem rewards points to put towards your holiday gifts – A good credit card will give you the freedom and flexibility to redeem your rewards points on a wide range of gifts or gift cards from top retailers to help you afford your holiday shopping this year. For example, the TD Rewards website www.tdrewards.com is a 'one-stop-shop' for holiday shoppers, offering thousands of unique gift ideas like a new watch for dad or a gift card to an exclusive day spa for mom.

• Shop online – Credit cards offer the highest level of protection when shopping online, so take advantage of the ease and convenience of internet shopping for holidays. Many online retailers offer 1 to 2-day delivery, so if you're a last minute shopper you'll still have time to shop online and have the perfect gifts wrapped and delivered before it's too late.

• Track your spending – A credit card is a great tool to help track and monitor your holiday spending. Check your account regularly to ensure you're sticking to your budget and adjust your spending accordingly. Remember to pay your bill in full and on time once your bill arrives.

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