LIFESTYLE NEWS - Easter weekend is upon us. For some it is a deep and spiritual time, and for others a time of relaxation and fun.
Whatever you are planning this Easter, consider a few money-saving options to make it a memorable and affordable one.
Wikus Olivier, debt management expert at DebtSafe, shares a few ideas on making Easter not only enjoyable but also affordable:
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 why not 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.
Don't worry about entertaining the young (and older) ones 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. Fill the basket with real, hard- boiled eggs that they had decorated 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 to entertain the kids? Egg hunts do not necessarily have to be done with expensive chocolate eggs or bunnies – why not call it a candy hunt and use items at home as well as affordable candy/lollipops?
Easter Weekend should be a time of 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. Remember, sharing is caring.
- Olivier says 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.
- 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 fuel stations beforehand. You can then do your pit stops at fuel stations you know offer better prices on diesel.
- Make sure you check your tyre pressure regularly to improve fuel efficiency.
