The Easter holidays are upon us. But for many South African consumers struggling with the sharply rising cost of living, planning activities for the family is a daunting exercise as we feel the effects of food inflation.
The Household Affordability Index released in February 2023 reported that the cost of the average household food basket increased by R572,64 or 13,1% more from R4 355,70 February last year to R4 928,34 February this year.
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But even more worrying is the fact that people earning less than R100 000 per annum are spending 50% more of their income on groceries than what they did in 2019, according to Visa and Discovery Bank, who on 8 March 2023, released their SpendTrend23 report.
Meanwhile, the SA Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee has as of this month hiked interest rates by 50 basis points to 7,75%.
Those Easter eggs, Lindt chocolate bunnies, hot cross buns and chocolate-covered marshmallows are now more expensive than ever before, so this is probably the time to get your family used to the idea of pared-back festivities.
“The Easter holiday can be tough on a family’s budget” says James Williams, Head of Marketing at Wonga. “You’ve just made it through Christmas and Valentine’s Day, and now you are looking at buying additional items to see you through over the Easter period. The costs can add up quickly.”
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James shares some budget friendly activities that one can try this Easter to make your budget stretch:
1. A family picnic at the botanical gardens, park or the beach
Be at one with nature with friends and family over a picnic at your local botanical gardens, park or at the beach. Prepare a basket full of sandwiches, cheeses, fruits, crackers and some drinks and enjoy a delicious picnic. These can be great spots for an egg hunt with the kids and economical for your pocket.
2. Whip up a ‘lekker’ braai
A casual family braai is a favourite way to bond for South Africans. Look out for specials at supermarkets and butchers. You could get chicken, a few chops and packs of sausages, a bowl of salad, chakalaka or coleslaw and a crate of drinks for under R1 000 for a serving of 8-10 people. Many local retailers offer delivery services to save on your petrol.
3. Host a potluck Easter meal
Ask your guests to bring something to share. Just because you are hosting does not mean that you must do all the shopping and cooking.
You can provide the main course and ask them to bring something with them.
4. Set up a family movie night or binge on a series
To enjoy a shared experience with the kids or your partner, find time to watch a series or a movie with a bowl of popcorn. This is an alternative to going to the cinema which can be pricey.
5. Bake a cake with the kids
Baking at home is always a rewarding and fun activity. If you are not the best baker, pick yourself up a box of cake or cupcake mix, and get the kids involved. This is budget-friendly with a box of cake mix going for under R80 at grocery stores.
6. Organise an Easter egg hunt at home
Kids love the thrill of running around looking for Easter eggs and these egg hunts are so easy to organise. Pick up a box of Easter eggs which will cost around R90 for a pack of 36 eggs and scatter them around the house or garden.
“We really need to rethink how we are spending and do things differently that we can enjoy with our friends and family,” James advises.
“This way you can explore your local area and teach your children new ways to spend family holidays without blowing your budget to entertain.”
