Hari Raya shopping is a yearly tradition, but let’s be honest – it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Between the crowded malls, last-minute sales, and hungry, cranky children in tow, what should be a fun preparation for Hari Raya can quickly turn into a stressful, patience-testing experience.
For parents, the challenge is even greater.
Shopping isn’t just about ticking things off a list.
It’s about managing little ones, avoiding unnecessary spending, and making sure no one has a meltdown (including us parents).
With that in mind, here’s a simple survival guide on the dos and don’ts when shopping for Hari Raya.
The Dos: How to Make Hari Raya Shopping Easier
Plan Your Time Wisely and Spread Out Your Shopping Trips
Shopping with tired, hungry children? A disaster is waiting to happen.
Instead of cramming everything into a single, exhausting day, try spreading out your shopping trips over a few days.
One day for clothes, another for groceries, and maybe a separate day for Hari Raya decorations and gifts.
If possible, shop during off-peak hours like the mornings and weekdays, which tend to be quieter compared to weekends and pre-iftar hours when the entire city seems to be at the mall.
And if a long shopping trip is unavoidable, bring snacks for non-fasting kids and schedule short breaks to keep everyone sane.
Make a Checklist and Stick to It
It’s easy to get distracted by flashy sales and beautifully packaged kuih raya.
Before you know it, you’ve spent way beyond your budget.
Having a checklist keeps things on track and helps you prioritise what you actually need.
Before heading out, sit down and list out exactly what you’re shopping for, from Hari Raya outfits to kitchen essentials.
This way, you won’t fall into the trap of impulse buying. Let’s avoid unintentionally purchasing 7 different types of cookies.
It also helps to set a budget for any ‘just-in-case’ purchases because, naturally, something unexpected tends to find its way into our shopping cart.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
A shopping trip sounds fun until you’ve been on your feet for hours and your shoes start betraying you.
Comfortable footwear is a must. Not just for the kids but for everyone in the family.
Children should wear secure, non-slip shoes, especially if escalators are involved.
Mummies, if you’re planning a full-day shopping spree, leave the heels at home and opt for something practical.
Nothing ruins a Hari Raya shopping trip faster than aching feet, sore blisters, or a grumpy child who ‘can’t walk anymore.’
Take Safety Precautions When Shopping in Crowded Places
Malls during this period can be overwhelming.
One second your child is next to you, and the next, they’ve wandered off to look at something shiny.
Large crowds can be stressful, so it’s always better to take extra precautions.
For younger children, a parent-to-child wrist strap or backpack with an extended safety string can help keep them close.
If your kids are a little older, consider putting a GPS tracker in their pocket or bag for peace of mind.
Most importantly, teach your child what to do if they ever get separated from you.
Choose a safe meeting spot when you enter a mall, and make sure they know your phone number by heart.
Alternatively, you can also write your phone number on their wrist for extra precaution.
The Don’ts: What to Avoid When Shopping for Hari Raya
Don’t Leave Everything Until the Last Minute
It’s tempting to delay shopping until the final days of Ramadan, but this is when malls turn into a battlefield.
Last-minute crowds, endless queues, and out-of-stock items will only make the experience more stressful.
Shopping early saves time, energy, and frustration.
Essential items like Hari Raya clothes, home decorations, and dry food can all be purchased ahead of time.
If possible, buy online to avoid unnecessary trips to the mall.
By planning ahead, you could be relaxing at home on Raya Eve. While others may be running around a packed supermarket at the last minute.
Don’t Forget to Budget Wisely; Hari Raya Isn’t About Overspending
Preparing for Hari Raya can get expensive, especially without proper budgeting. Between new outfits to kuih raya and home decor, it’s easy to get carried away.
Set a realistic budget and separate ‘needs’ from ‘wants.’ Prioritise what’s necessary.
And if you really want to splurge on something, make sure it fits within your budget.
Remember, Hari Raya is about celebrating with loved ones, not about who has the most lavish decorations or the most expensive outfits.
Making Hari Raya Shopping Enjoyable
Shopping for Hari Raya doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.
With a little planning, smart choices, and the right mindset, it can actually be an enjoyable part of the festive preparations.
By spreading out your shopping trips, staying within budget, prioritising comfort, and keeping safety in mind, you’ll make the entire experience smoother for yourself and your family.
What about you, my fellow parents? What are some of your best shopping survival tips for Hari Raya?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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