Get ready for the holidays

Planning a holiday? The season that is all about relaxing and spending time with family and friends can often feel overwhelming.

1. Create a budget and stick to it!

Always strategize your holiday spending. Don’t go into the New Year with credit card debt that you’ve racked up due to holiday expenses like food, entertainment, decorations and holiday travel. When you add it all up, you could easily spend thousands of rands without a budget in mind! Always figure out how much you can afford to spend in total.

This amount should come out of your available cash and savings, so you don’t have to rely on credit. If you don’t have any holiday savings, consider what other sources of money you can access (without making debt) – such as your year-end bonus.

2. Shop smarter

Why not do the bulk of your holiday shopping online? Always keep mailing costs in mind and order your gifts ahead of time so that you don’t have to pay for shipping or have to deal with delivery delays. It’s a great way to support small businesses! If you prefer shopping at your local mall, draw up a list of stores you need to visit to keep focused on what you’re at the mall for.

3. Make accommodation and flight reservations 

Booking accommodation and flights well in advance for your holiday is very beneficial. You will save a lot by booking hotels and flights when they are offering special offers or discounts rather than waiting for the last minute. You will get more value for your money and will be able to plan your holiday trip better. And don’t forget to get home insurance for your home to have peace of mind that wherever you are, your items are covered.

4. Plan fun holiday activities with family & friends

Draw up a holiday activities to-do list and start scheduling fun holiday activities on your calendar. Once you’ve compiled the list, share it with your family and friends, and have them add suggestions and ideas.

5. Deep cleaning is essential

Dust the blinds, vacuum under the cushions, clean the bathroom cabinets – make sure that if unexpected guests pop in during the holiday season, that your home remains spotless and inviting.

6. Prepare your mindset

Holiday preparations can often be stressful, so always acknowledge when your body and mind need a break. Take a few moments each day to check in with yourself. Assessing how you feel regularly can save you from an emotional meltdown mid-holiday season.

Now that you’re ready for the holidays, don’t forget that vehicle repair centres, like other industries, will also be winding down business for the year. Take your vehicle to a trusted auto repair centre for maintenance. You would not want to get stuck on the side of the road when on your way to some fun. And while you’re at it, get comprehensive car insurance, so if you do get a vehicle emergency, roadside assistance is just a call away.

Remember to live your way, on your own terms and stay safe this holiday, sanitising your hands frequently, practicing social distancing and wearing your face mask whenever you are out.

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