Easter weekend is upon South Africans. For some, it is a deep and spiritual time, and for others, a time of relaxation and fun. Whatever you are planning this Easter, have you considered a few money-saving options to make it a memorable and affordable one? If not, no worry, we have a few ideas on making Easter, not only enjoyable but also affordable:
Homemade treats are the best
If you enjoy baking and brewing then this would be an ideal (and affordable) tip for you. Homemade treats are the best when it comes to your taste buds and pocket, so make your own Easter treats (with basic ingredients) instead of giving in to the temptation of buying expensive chocolate eggs or bunnies. Make it personal this Easter and find the best homemade recipe to suit your pocket. There are easy recipes available online: Allrecipes.com; CountryLiving or Pinterest.
Fun and affordable activities
Don’t worry about entertaining the young ones (and older folk) this coming Easter. There are quite a few activities that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Find the closest thing at home that the kids can decorate and use as an Easter basket. Use real, hard-boiled eggs (to put in the basket) that they can decorate with markers, wrapping paper or leftover paint. Easter baskets can also come in handy as table decorations. And what about a fun and affordable egg hunt that the kids can entertain themselves with. Egg hunts do not necessarily have to be with expensive chocolate eggs or bunnies – why not call it a candy hunt and use items at home as well as affordable candy/lollipops.
Sharing is caring
Easter Weekend should be about joy, relaxation and quality time with loved ones. You don’t have to leave the house or go to extremes to have an enjoyable Easter lunch. What about a Bring and Braai or a nice picnic in Grandad’s garden? Not only will you have a more personal setting but you and those around you will save some money. Let every person bring their own meat as well as their favourite (and easy to make) dish.
Save money if you intend to travel
There are quite a few ways to save on your fuel usage:
- If you have to travel during Easter weekend and friends or family members are also driving from your area to the same destination, drive together in two cars instead of three, for example.
- Avoid toll routes where possible and take alternative roads instead.
- Make use of your rewards systems (if you have any) to fuel your car, like FNB or Discovery, for example.
- Make use of a convenient phone app like fillapp to regulate your fuel usage as well as saving money by knowing when to fill your tank before/during Easter.
- Remember diesel is not regulated, so if you need to fill your tank with diesel, have a bit of patience and do your homework (on petrol stations) beforehand. You will then know which fuel station (during your pit stops) offers a better price on diesel.
- Make sure you check your tyre pressure regularly to improve fuel efficiency.
If you have not had the chance to draw up your Easter budget yet, there is a bit of time left to do so. Get your money-saving plan going to have a fun-filled and affordable Easter weekend with family and/or friends.