Seeing the double line or ‘pregnant’ sign on the pregnancy test kit typically gives us mums all kinds of mixed feelings. There are so many things to consider! We are overjoyed, yet also genuinely worried. Not only about taking care of the little one growing inside us but managing our household income too. Expenses is a worrying factor, even more so with the rising prices of goods and services due to inflation.
From the cost of caring for my pregnant self to preparing the home for a new baby, purchasing essential baby items, and giving birth, there is a whole lot of expenditure to plan and manage. In the early stages of my pregnancy, I begin to spend more money on pregnancy diet goods such as maternal milk, fruits and vegetables, and supplements.
Then, starting in the second trimester, I will begin purchasing and preparing everything we’ll need to welcome our newborn into the world. However, the high inflation this year has had a significant impact on my finances. Thus, I have to be very meticulous with how I manage my finances because anything could happen during these trying times.
Although my excitement entices me to want everything new, branded, and expensive for my little one, the difficult time now calls for significant cost savings. If you’re pregnant and worried about your finances, don’t be because having a baby can be cost effective with the right steps and money management.
Here are a few things I do to deal with inflation and prepare for my new arrival:
Make the Necessary Checklists
The most important thing for me to do at first is to make a list of everything I really need for my newborn. I perform an online search to determine what items are required, then divide and group them according to priority. Such as making a list for things I will need right away after the baby is born, and another for things that can wait until my baby is a little older, say a few weeks or months.
Whatever checklist I create, I will include the items that are essential. The same goes for items I would require during pregnancy, after childbirth, and during confinement. If I discover that some of the items aren’t necessary, I’ll put them on a separate list to be purchased later when I have extra money to spend.
I also have a hospital bag checklist ready, which I will prepare when I am about six to seven months pregnant. The bag will be packed with necessities for the baby, myself, and my spouse while we wait for labour, immediately after delivery, and during hospital stays.
Monitor Expenditure During Inflation
When I start buying things, I’ll make sure to cross them off my list and keep all receipts to track how much I’ve spent so far. That way, I know what I already have and can avoid double-spending while also cutting back where necessary. This is a good tip because finding baby items, especially for first-time mummies, can make you feel as if you need everything.
It’s also a good idea to ask around, such as your friends with kids, to find out what things are really necessary or not after having a baby. So, if you’re not sure whether an item is required or not, put it on the KIV list first. Revisit your purchasing only when the time comes either you or your baby actually need it. This way, you can avoid wasting money and save more for essential purchases.
Look Out for Discounts and Promotions
With higher inflation, baby items may also rise in price, so I will look for discounts whenever I go shopping. Additionally, I look for any special discounts for expectant mothers that some baby stores typically offer. This can be extremely beneficial when you’re on a tight budget and looking to save money.
Baby fairs are also a great place to look for items on sale for newborns. Also, when purchasing certain items, online platforms may be less expensive than going to a physical store.
Buy Pre-loved Items or Accept Hand-Me-Downs
Aside from looking for bargains, I also search pre-owned goods online for items that baby outgrows quickly or can last a long time. For example, some newborn clothing in addition to the new ones, a baby playpen or crib, a stroller, and other baby furniture, to name a few. Of course, I’ll look at the conditions and only purchase items that are still in good shape and usable.
If any family members or close friends want to give me any hand-me-downs, I would gladly accept them because they help me save a lot! You’ll realise that the majority of essential baby items can be purchased or obtained second-hand. Just make sure the items are something you’ll use and that they’ll fit in your space.
Spring Cleaning for Extra Cash
At a time when inflation is on the rise, I believe it is crucial to look for additional sources of income in addition to relying solely on monthly earnings. Since I need to make room for my baby anyway, I’m planning a spring cleaning to find items to sell.
Any extra money I receive will be kept in a separate account and used only when absolutely necessary. If I already have enough budget to buy everything on my checklist, I’ll save it for rainy days. We never know what can happen during times like these so it is good to have an emergency fund. Furthermore, spring cleaning is a great way to clean up, get rid of unwanted items and make room for new baby items.
Saving Money During Inflation Is Vital
Because baby preparation, hospital bills, and other additional costs can add up quickly, you should start with a proper checklist and stick to it when making purchases. You can also save money by asking other mums which are the baby items they actually needed and used, and which you may not need to buy right away. Managing funds properly is also beneficial for us expectant mothers because it relieves one burden from our shoulders, as there are many more to think about when pregnant. And there you have it—I hope my tips have helped you fellow expecting or new mummies!
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