TZANEEN – As the festive season nears, families are once again faced with the challenge of juggling two major financial commitments: December holiday celebrations and January’s back-to-school expenses.

Many households are finding creative ways to celebrate while preparing for the new school year without falling into debt.

According to Lethabo Ledwaba, secretary of Tzaneen NPO Maatla-Moreneng Foundation,  families should frequently plan their budgets for both occasions by prioritising, saving early, and setting clear spending limits.

“Though I won’t lie, others prioritise holidays more than school; they would rather fall behind on fees than compromise their planned holiday,” she said.

Ledwaba advised creating separate savings funds for holidays and school needs, reusing supplies, and spreading purchases over several months to avoid financial strain.

Setting spending limits and tracking every purchase also helps to stay on budget.

She further explained that tracking spending through notebooks or budgeting apps allows families to see where their money goes and adjust accordingly.

“Using cash instead of credit cards can also help prevent debt, while homemade gifts or simple family celebrations can make the holidays meaningful without overspending,” she added.