School's out, savings in
The year-end holidays are here. For parents, the phrase “school’s out” brings out a mix of emotions, from relief and joy to mild panic. Holidays are a wonderful time to rest, reconnect, and make memories but they also bring extra costs: trips, daily treats, and endless requests for “just one more activity”.
It’s one of the easiest times to lose track of your spending and start the new year feeling financially stretched. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little planning and mindful spending, you can enjoy the break and set yourself up for a smoother start.
Here are five tips on how to keep the fun – and your finances – under control this holiday season.
Here are five tips on how to keep the fun – and your finances – under control this holiday season.
Whether you’re planning a short trip overseas, a family staycation in Bandar, or just a few weeks of activities for the kids, decide how much you’re comfortable spending overall. Then, break it down into categories — travel, meals out, activities, gifts, and back-to-school needs.
Track your spending in real time using apps like Spendee. When you can see your holiday budget running low, it becomes much easier to say “not today” to impulse buys.
Tip: Set aside a small “fun fund” for spontaneous treats, like an ice cream after the park or a last-minute movie. Having this buffer means you can say yes occasionally, without derailing your budget.
Track your spending in real time using apps like Spendee. When you can see your holiday budget running low, it becomes much easier to say “not today” to impulse buys.
Tip: Set aside a small “fun fund” for spontaneous treats, like an ice cream after the park or a last-minute movie. Having this buffer means you can say yes occasionally, without derailing your budget.
Travel is often the biggest holiday expense. But it doesn’t have to blow your budget. If you’re planning to go overseas, book early to take advantage of promotional fares or family deals.
Keep an eye out for credit card promotions like Baiduri Bank’s Royal Brunei Visa Credit or Debit Card from December 1st to January 31st – you could earn bonus chances to win travel-related rewards while you spend.
If you have family or friends abroad, consider a house swap or visiting during off-peak times to save on accommodation. Remember, the goal is to prioritise time together, not to tick off iconic destinations. Many of the most memorable family experiences don’t require flights.
Tip: Brunei is full of underrated gems: the canopy walk in Ulu Temburong National Park, mangrove cruises in the Brunei River, or simple picnics at Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas (Eco-Corridor park). These experiences are often more meaningful (and less expensive) than a packed tourist itinerary.
Keep an eye out for credit card promotions like Baiduri Bank’s Royal Brunei Visa Credit or Debit Card from December 1st to January 31st – you could earn bonus chances to win travel-related rewards while you spend.
If you have family or friends abroad, consider a house swap or visiting during off-peak times to save on accommodation. Remember, the goal is to prioritise time together, not to tick off iconic destinations. Many of the most memorable family experiences don’t require flights.
Tip: Brunei is full of underrated gems: the canopy walk in Ulu Temburong National Park, mangrove cruises in the Brunei River, or simple picnics at Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas (Eco-Corridor park). These experiences are often more meaningful (and less expensive) than a packed tourist itinerary.
When the kids are home, small daily expenses add up fast. A quick trip to the mall can turn into lunch, snacks, and toys before you know it.
Last December, Sara set a “no mall Mondays” rule with her two children. They agreed that Mondays would be for free activities - cycling at the park, baking together, or visiting grandparents. By the end of the holidays, Sara realised they had saved almost $200 just by skipping those casual cafe runs and movie tickets. The best part? Her kids actually started looking forward to our “no spend” days because they knew they got to choose the activity.
It’s a small example, but it shows how intentional spending can make a big difference.
Tip: Try setting your own “spending-free” days. If your children are old enough, involve them in making decisions about outings and treats. Give them a small budget for the week and let them decide how to use it
Last December, Sara set a “no mall Mondays” rule with her two children. They agreed that Mondays would be for free activities - cycling at the park, baking together, or visiting grandparents. By the end of the holidays, Sara realised they had saved almost $200 just by skipping those casual cafe runs and movie tickets. The best part? Her kids actually started looking forward to our “no spend” days because they knew they got to choose the activity.
It’s a small example, but it shows how intentional spending can make a big difference.
Tip: Try setting your own “spending-free” days. If your children are old enough, involve them in making decisions about outings and treats. Give them a small budget for the week and let them decide how to use it
The post-holiday rush to buy uniforms, shoes, and stationery often comes as a shock after December’s spending. Start early and take a quick inventory before you shop. You’ll find that many items can be reused or handed down. Check for school sales or bundle deals at local stores, and don’t overlook online options for bulk stationery or backpacks.
If you’re shopping at Samima, Baiduri Cardholders can also benefit from the back-to-school campaign, which offers weekly prize draws – a nice bonus while ticking off your list.
Holidays are the perfect opportunity to teach children about money. Start small - give them a budget for snacks or a family outing and help them plan how to spend it.
You can also introduce simple concepts like saving for something they want, comparing prices, or understanding the difference between needs and wants. Encouraging your kids to track their own savings or donate a portion to charity builds both financial awareness and empathy.
Tip: Children learn most from what they see. When they see you set goals, make lists, and stick to a budget, they’re more likely to grow up with healthy money habits.
Smart spending doesn’t stop when the new term starts. Take a moment during the holidays to map out major expenses for the year ahead: school fees, birthday celebrations, enrichment classes, and term breaks.
Having a year-round financial plan helps spread costs evenly and reduces the stress of sudden expenses. Consider setting up automatic savings transfers each month for specific goals - like mid-year trips or tuition fees - so that you’re never scrambling.
Think of it as “budgeting for peace of mind.” With a clear plan, you give yourself room to say yes to meaningful opportunities when they come up - without guilt or financial strain.
The holidays should be a time to relax, not to worry about your wallet. With a bit of foresight and discipline, you can enjoy the school break, make lasting memories, and still start the new year on solid financial ground.
Think of it as “budgeting for peace of mind.” With a clear plan, you give yourself room to say yes to meaningful opportunities when they come up - without guilt or financial strain.
The holidays should be a time to relax, not to worry about your wallet. With a bit of foresight and discipline, you can enjoy the school break, make lasting memories, and still start the new year on solid financial ground.
Visit Baiduri Bank’s Financial Wellness Centre today to build your term-time and holiday spending plan. Whether you want to create a family budget, set up automatic savings for school fees, or learn how to make your money work harder through smart goal planning, our team of financial wellness consultants can walk you through it all in a supportive environment.
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