While many parents are still recovering financially from the December holidays and back-to-school expenses, the Easter school holidays have crept up on us – a period that usually adds further pressure to the budget. “We all want to spoil our kids after a long term of hard work, but it must not be at the risk of running into unnecessary debt,” says Ntombi Mponda from financial services provider Metropolitan.
“Creating holiday fun for children does not need to be expensive. A little preparation and some fresh ideas can go a long way towards keeping expenses – and that dreaded ‘I’m bored’ whine – to a minimum,” says Ntombi.
Four tips for planning the perfect holiday on a budget:
Planning makes perfect: At the start of each new year, schools provide a calendar that lists important school events and holiday dates for the year. This should be your cue to start planning; draw up a holiday budget highlighting how much you can afford to spend during each holiday period – and then start saving towards these goals.
Activities, activities, activities: What’s a holiday without activities? Activities and outings need not be a costly affair and with a little creativity you can create some inexpensive, magical experiences at home. Why not turn your family room into a home style cinema, complete with homemade popcorn and snacks, or create a herb garden? Family hikes and picnics on the beach can also be a nice change of scenery, and won’t blow the budget.
A family getaway: Campsites are a great getaway option for the whole family. Open spaces, fresh air, quality family time a – and it’s easy on the pocket! If you are unable to make it to a campsite, pitch a tent in the garden. Kids love a bit of spontaneity and anything that differs from their usual routine is a cause for great excitement.
Holiday lessons: if you can afford to – and have made provision for it in the holiday budget – give each child a holiday allowance. By giving them pocket money each week and helping them draw up a mini-budget, you are able to teach your children one of life’s most important lessons: to appreciate the value of money and to spend responsibly.
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