Ahead of the Easter holidays, a personal finance expert has shared her top tips for families to enjoy the time off without increasing the pressure on already strained finances.
With the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics showing that more than half (56%) of Brits have seen their cost of living increase over the last year, and one in five resorting to borrowing or credit to make ends meet, budgeting for school breaks has never been more crucial.
Raising a child in the UK is already a significant financial commitment, costing couples an average of £39.54 per day and single parents £44.26 per day.
UK Debt Expert data also highlights that parents, particularly those with children under five, often delay seeking financial assistance until their debt exceeds £6,000, making it even more essential to budget effectively for holiday periods.
Maxine McCreadie, personal finance expert at UK Debt Expert, has shared her top money-saving tips for parents looking to enjoy Easter without adding to their financial worries:
1. Budget-friendly activities and days out
“Take advantage of free museum days, local parks, and community-led Easter events. Many councils and libraries offer complimentary children’s workshops, from arts and crafts to storytelling sessions, which can provide hours of entertainment at no cost.
“Getting creative with DIY Easter decorations and baking together can also provide plenty of entertainment. Simple activities like painting eggs, making paper bunny masks, or baking Easter-themed biscuits are fun, affordable ways to celebrate the holiday. Not only do they save money, but they also encourage family bonding and help kids get involved in the festivities in a hands-on way.
“If you’re looking for a bigger day out, check for discounts on family passes to attractions or use loyalty card points to help with entry fees. Many supermarkets and brands run promotions that can significantly reduce the cost of visits to popular destinations like zoos, theme parks, and aquariums. By planning ahead and seeking out these deals, families can enjoy quality time together without the hefty price tag.”
2. Meal planning and batch cooking
“With food prices continuing to rise, meal planning is a simple but effective way to reduce waste and keep costs down over the holiday period.
“Before heading to the supermarket, take stock of what’s already in your cupboards and freezer, then plan meals around those ingredients. Opt for budget-friendly recipes that use store cupboard staples, and consider batch cooking meals in advance. Dishes like pasta bakes, stews, and homemade soups can be made in bulk and frozen, saving both time and money.
“Additionally, avoiding costly last-minute takeaways by prepping easy grab-and-go meals can make a big difference. A little planning goes a long way in helping families stretch their budgets while still enjoying nutritious, home-cooked meals.”
3. Host a toy and book swap
“Children can quickly grow bored of their toys and books, leading to pressure to buy new ones. Instead of splashing out on fresh entertainment, why not arrange a swap with friends, family, or even other parents in your local community?
“Toy and book swaps are a fantastic way to introduce kids to new stories and activities without spending a penny. Many community centres and schools also host swap events where families can exchange items, helping to keep things fresh while reducing unnecessary spending.
“This simple idea not only saves money but also encourages sustainability by giving well-loved items a second life.”
4. Swap childcare with friends or family
“The Easter break can be a logistical challenge for parents, especially with the cost of childcare soaring. UK childcare costs now average over £1,000 per month, rising to £1,431.96 in London, making school holiday cover an expensive necessity.
“To cut costs, consider setting up a childcare swap with other parents or leaning on family members for support. By alternating childcare duties with friends, you can create a system that allows each parent to have some free time while ensuring the kids are still engaged in fun and safe activities.
“Not only does this reduce financial strain, but it also fosters a sense of community and support among parents navigating the challenges of school breaks.”
5. Set a holiday budget for the future
“Many families find themselves caught off guard by the added expenses of school holidays, but setting aside a small amount each month can help ease financial pressure when the next break rolls around.
“One effective approach is the 50/30/20 budgeting method, where 20% of your income is allocated to savings. Even if saving a large amount isn’t feasible, putting aside a small sum regularly can add up over time and make a real difference when it comes to covering holiday costs.
“By planning ahead and creating a dedicated holiday fund, parents can avoid last-minute financial stress and focus on enjoying quality time with their children without the added worry of mounting costs.”
Maxine added:
“Many parents feel immense pressure to provide an unforgettable holiday experience for their children, but the reality is that meaningful family time doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
“With rising costs and financial uncertainty, it’s more important than ever for parents to be proactive with their budgeting. If families are struggling with debt, seeking financial advice sooner rather than later could make a significant difference.”
