How to build a baby fund
When you find out you are pregnant many, many things race through your mind and more often than not money (or the lack of) is one of them.
How on earth are you going to fund this addition to your family? How are you going to afford the pushchair/nursery/time of work/baby clothes/nappies milk etc? Many people are not ready financially to welcome a new addition no matter how wanted that baby may be.
Here are ten top tips to creating the baby fund you need:
- Don’t buy designer baby magazines! I think one of the key things you can do is avoid buying in to branded baby stuff, prams that costs almost £1000, designer wardrobes, nursery furniture that costs the same as a second hand car. A baby really, REALLY does not need that stuff. It’s all for show, so do not spend your time coveting a lifestyle that’s only going to cost you a fortune and make no difference at all to your baby’s well-being.
- Find out about your benefits and allowances. These will impact the amount of money you need in your baby find and sorting them out in advance is really helpful.
- Accept donations. Many people you know will have lightly used baby goods they will offer to donate or sell you very cheaply. Apart from car-seats and cot mattresses, lightly worn baby stuff is really worth having and will save you a packet.
- Consider whether it may be a good idea to sell your car. Insurance, MOT, tax petrol all really add up and are you going to really need 2 cars? This can garner a huge saving and money for the baby fund.
- Holidays are one of the biggest money drainers. So, instead how about visiting a friend who lives somewhere nice or even house swapping with them? Money for the baby fund but still a change of scene.
- Always look for vouchers online when you come to buying things, it only takes a moment but really can make a big difference. Just search in google for vouchers and the name of the store you are shopping at.
- Make sure you are paying the least possible prices for the utilities you use. Do take a few minutes to compare prices rather then just sticking with a supplier you have always had.
- I really am convinced this anti shopping list is the only shopping list you will really ever need and having a look at every now and then could really save you money. Why not print it off and pop it in your purse,
- It’s really important to locate your joy in experiences rather than things. You baby will love music, fresh air, socialising and attention a 100x more than expensive baby classes and sophisticated toys. Cuddles and songs are worth every penny of a designer mobile. Keep it simple and streamline your expenses.
- Last but not least I would strongly advise that you meal plan. Creating a meal plan will save a whole lot of money by reducing waste and unnecessary spending Such a great habit to get into and will reduce you outgoings hugely. Here’s little video on how to do it Starting this during pregnancy will get you in great habits for when you are living on a reduced income and will hopefully free up savings for your baby fund too.
Hope all these ideas on how to build a baby fund really help.
Good luck!.
