Many South Africans celebrate Easter – this may be hosting a family lunch or dinner or making the most of a long weekend and going away.
Whatever you and your family are planning, there will be costs involved: between Easter outfits, baskets, meals and holidays, the strain on your budget can be significant.
So how can you save money this Easter? Here are some suggestions:
1. Make your own…
Easter baskets
No need to buy expensive prewrapped baskets – why don’t you make your own? You’d be surprised how many materials are lying around at home already: a cardboard box, a bucket, a mixing bowl, or a plant pot will do. Simply wrap it in paper, let your children create an Easter masterpiece with some crayons, tape and pencils and you can have lots of inexpensive fun together.
For more ideas Google‘make your own Easter basket’and have some creative fun with your kids.
Easter eggs
Whether they are colourful boiled eggs or chocolate creations there are many ways to make beautiful and inexpensive Easter eggs.
Mix 1 tablespoon food colouring, 2 teaspoons vinegar and add 180ml water. Dip your boiled eggs into the mixture to create a variety of colourful eggs.
For easy to make chocolate eggs simply Google‘make your own chocolate Easter eggs’ for a range of easy-to-follow recipes.
If you run out of time, there are last minute bargains to be had. Wait for the day before the Easter weekend when many shops sell Easter eggs and other goodies at reduced prices to make sure they clear their stock.
Easter outfits
Instead of heading to that party shop or favourite retail outlet, be creative and make your own Easter hat. And find an old t-shirt, grab some fabric glitter and paints, and get to work! Find some inspirationhere.
2. Keep your Easter meal simple
- Head outdoors and enjoy a picnic lunch – your kids can roam free, there’s less washing up and it’s cheaper too.
- Host a potluck dinner where your guests bring a dish to share to create a communal Easter meal. It’s great fun and saves money too.
- Or in true South African style – host a bring and braai. You can supply the salads and your guests can bring their own meat and drinks to keep your costs down.
- Keep an eye out for specials: many shops have great pre-Easter sales where you can find a bargain.
3. Going away?
- Keep an eye out for discounts – due to the COVID pandemic many hotels and B&Bs are offering discounts to get people to stay. Make sure you use a variety of online accommodation booking websites to search for the best deal.
- Pack board games and bicycles for good quality, free family time.
- Choose self-catering options to keep your food costs down – no need to eat out every night.
- Don’t go too far – with our high petrol prices why don’t you look for accommodation options closer to home? There is no need to drive 100s of kms that will cost a small fortune in petrol when there are so many places to choose from within 2 hours of your home.
4. Staycation
Why don’t you celebrate at home? Avoid busy roads and expensive activities and make the most of good quality family time in the comfort of your own home. Spend time with your community and organise an Easter egg hunt with your neighbours. Plan family picnics; head to your local Easter market to pick up a bargain; go to a free entry museum – the list is endless.
Remember: less is more. There are many ways to enjoy your Easter weekend on a tight budget by simply doing-it-yourself and thinking creatively. Have fun!
For more help with managing your budget, read our 5 Things to Consider When Budget Planning article.
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