Easter is a time for family, food, and a bit of a breather – but it can also bring unexpected costs. Between school holidays, days out, chocolate eggs and big meals, it’s easy to overspend without realising.
To help you stay on track, we’ve pulled together some practical Easter money saving tips so you can enjoy the long weekend without adding financial pressure.
Budget-Friendly Easter Meal Ideas
You don’t need to go overboard to enjoy a great Easter meal. Keeping it simple often works best – and your bank balance will thank you.
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Stick to a meal plan: Decide what you’re cooking in advance, make a list, and avoid last-minute “just in case” extras.
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Use supermarket own brands: Most taste just as good and cost a fraction of the price.
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Ask guests to bring something: If you’re hosting, sharing the load (and the cost) makes it easier for everyone.
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Use leftovers wisely: Plan for how you’ll use leftover meat or veg to avoid waste and stretch your spend.
Free or Low-Cost Easter Activities for Families
Making memories doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Here are a few low-cost or free ideas:
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Home-made Easter egg hunt: Use what you have or pick up a few small treats. Add clues or silly challenges for extra fun.
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Get outside: Pack a picnic, go for a walk, or visit a local park or forest – free entertainment and a chance to burn off the chocolate!
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Check local events: Community centres, libraries and local Facebook groups often post about free or low-cost Easter activities.
- Pack a picnic for your back garden or a nearby park.
- Get crafty by making Easter decorations and cards.
- Bake Easter treats instead of buying them.
- Have an Easter-themed movie marathon.
Supermarket Loyalty Schemes and Shopping Hacks
A few small changes to how you shop can make a big difference:
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Use loyalty cards: Tesco Clubcard, Nectar, and others offer instant discounts and vouchers.
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Check for digital coupons: Use apps like Shopmium, GreenJinn or supermarket apps to find offers.
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Batch your shops: Avoid multiple small trips which often lead to impulse buys.
How to Reduce Energy Bills Over Easter
With everyone at home, it’s easy to see your energy use creep up. A few small changes can keep your costs down:
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Switch off devices properly rather than leaving them on standby.
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Use your oven smartly: Cook multiple things at once and avoid unnecessary preheating.
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Make the most of natural light and hang clothes outside if weather allows – skip the tumble dryer when you can.
Check What Financial Support You’re Eligible For
If Easter spending is already stretching things, it’s worth checking what help might be available. You might be entitled to support you’re not yet claiming.
Here are a few trusted resources:
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Help for Households – GOV.UK
Government support with energy bills, childcare, food costs and more. -
Entitled To Calculator
Find out if you’re missing out on any benefits or grants. -
MoneyHelper Budget Planner
A free, easy tool to map out your monthly income and outgoings.
Final Thoughts on Saving Money at Easter
Easter doesn’t need to cost a fortune to be meaningful. A bit of planning, a few simple swaps, and a reminder that time together often matters more than the price tag can go a long way.
If you’re on a plan with us at Refresh and something’s changed – whether it’s a job, a bill, or just your general situation – don’t sit on it. Get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
You’re doing something positive for your future – and we’re with you every step of the way.
