It’s hard to believe it’s nearly Easter as it felt like we just celebrated Christmas a few weeks ago. Easter can be a hidden trap, because how much can you actually spend on chocolate? Well from an article published in the Herald Sun – many households will have a budget blow out.
“Two in five households will have budget blowouts — 40 percent will have spent more than they earn in the week leading into up to Easter — and 15 percent will spend more than they earn during the four-day holiday break, exclusive data from the Commonwealth Bank has revealed.” Source
Managing your spending during the Easter period is critical. Having fun doesn’t need to blow your budget and keeping the family entertained doesn’t need to break the bank.
Here are my top 3 tips on how not to blow the budget this Easter.
Tip – Have a staycation
All around Australia, the Easter long weekend is a great time to get outside and explore. Try getting back to nature – it’s fun, free and not to mention – great for your health if you have indulged in one too many Easter Eggs! Why not be a tourist in your own city? Scan the local newspapers for low cost or no cost entertainment, take a bush walk, visit a local park or free tourist attraction.
Tip 2. Entertain without breaking the bank
Watching your spending doesn’t mean a limited social life. If you are tasked with entertaining during the Easter period, make sure you plan well. Planning a basic menu doesn’t have to be boring, guests will love traditional favourites on the menu and it will save you a considerable amount at the checkout. Every time you go shopping – take a list and stick to it. Shop around – you’ll be amazed at how much some prices vary. There are some great free shopping apps that you can download for free to keep you on track.
Tip 3 – Get creative & limit the treats
If you have young children in the family, a fun way to pass the time could be by getting crafty. There is a lot you can achieve with very little and even the biggest kids might find themselves having lots of fun. Did you know that Easter chocolate can be up to triple the cost per kg than regular chocolate? To get away from overspending pack Easter baskets with a small amount of good quality chocolate, some fruit and small toys that can be appreciated long after the chocolate is gone. Your health and wallet will thank you for it!
My final tip and probably the most important – set a budget! by setting goals and understanding the flow of your money you’ll have a better understanding of where your money is going and how to control it, not let it control you. Start early, be realistic and you can have a great Easter without blowing the budget.
I am a Brisbane based financial adviser with clients in Ashgrove, The Gap, Kenmore and Chapel Hill. I help professionals make informed decisions and take back financial control. These are just some of the examples of tips I like to share with my clients to help them gain control over their finances and to prepare for planning for their future. By following these tips, like my clients you’ll be able to ensure that when you engage a financial adviser they will be able to help you with what you need. I can also help you implement the appropriate tips for you.
I offer a 30-minute financial review session. In this session, I can review your current financial situation. I can see if I can help you achieve your financial goals and the best (and quickest) way to do so. You can contact our office on 07 3102 4948 or book a time that suits you via the link below.
If you would care to share your experience with me, please comment below!