From Thanksgiving through the new year, Americans tend to load their digital and physical shopping carts with tons of, for lack of a better word, stuff.

And what gets added is typically dictated by what’s “hot” at the moment, be it the latest must-have toy or a fast-fashion clothing item.

However, there’s a new trend developing among consumer groups: shopping intentionally with values and sustainability in mind. If you’re looking to follow suit and be more deliberate with your dollars, these tips can help you do it.

Shop with your values

Patronizing businesses with a similar value system to your own may make you feel better about where your money is going. Most explain their mission and standards on their websites, so take a moment to review this information before buying from one. For example, if you’re passionate about the protection of animals, try to find cruelty-free brands or those that donate to animal rights organizations.

Look beyond brand names

We’re often attracted to big-name brands because we see them most frequently on TV and social media, but bigger isn’t always best. You may be able to save money and shop more ethically by purchasing items from a smaller or locally owned business. Doing so has the added benefit of boosting your area’s economy—and it’s typically a much more eco-friendly approach.

Stop before you buy

Before you spend any money, ask yourself a simple question: Do I (or my gift recipient) really need this item? When it comes to gifting in particular, stop to think about the impact the present will have. Instead of a physical item, consider something experience-based like concert tickets or cooking classes, which can be more memorable and prevent waste.

While you don’t have to lock up your wallet and throw away the key this season, being more purposeful about where your money goes can make a big difference— for your well-being, your wallet, and the planet.