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Saving money in expensive Switzerland? This is possible because costs can be optimized in almost every area. Here you will find savings tips for your everyday life as a family.
Children cost money – a lot of money. But young Swiss families and single parents in particular often have comparatively low incomes. Although it’s more or less enough for everyday life, there’s hardly a franc left in your account at the end of the month. Looking away doesn’t help. Get an idea of all your expenses and costs. As a family, talk openly about where and how you want to save money together. Think about what good habits could help your family, taking your children’s fears and needs seriously. For example, every child should have a small amount of pocket money at their disposal – despite everything. Develop creative ideas together! Children appreciate being involved and being able to make a contribution. Even small decisions, implemented consistently, have a noticeable effect over time.
Used items are often free or very cheap to get from other families. This applies in particular to baby items, children’s furniture and children’s clothes. Ask your neighbors and relatives, in your status, and in local groups on social media. Or browse through marketplaces, thrift stores, and flea markets.
Except for a few favorite items, there are a lot of toys that fall out of favor with your children within a short time. The economical solution: A library, toy library, or a spontaneous exchange with the neighbor’s children or a cousin, whether it be for a few weeks or forever. And parents can also simply borrow many things that they don’t need on a regular basis.
Regularly search your household and sort out together what is no longer needed. Sell these things on an online platform or a flea market. This way you can earn some money and relieve the burden on the family budget.
Many people are going through a difficult time – even in Switzerland. ”Saving tips or not: There’s just not enough money.” For such situations, there are contact points that can help parents and children quickly and easily: For example Caritas, Pro Juventute (in German), or Winterhilfe (in German).
People often prefer to receive something personal over an expensive gadget. A nice letter, a voucher for a wellness evening at home, or a bike tour with a picnic – give free rein to your imagination. If you want something material, you can save in sales or by shopping online: There are many cheap offers for no-name products with good value for money. But: Beware of the cheapest platforms and unknown providers! How to recognize fake shops.
Conscious use of resources also prevents unnecessary spending. By reusing packaging, you save on garbage fees. Separate your waste; much of it can be disposed of free of charge at waste disposal centers. If you have a baby in your household, you should consider the cheaper option of cloth diapers.
Encourage each other to foster good habits: Turn off the lights. Take short showers. Benefit from the low rate (8 p.m. – 7 a.m.). Turn off electronic devices instead of leaving them in stand-by mode. Hang up laundry to dry instead of using the dryer. Air rooms briefly but thoroughly several times a day. Do not overheat your apartment or house. You can find many more tips at EnergieSchweiz (in German).
Lease payments, underground parking, service, taxes, insurance, fuel, parking fees – owning a car is a large budget item for many parents. But depending on where you live, it’s possible to do without your own car in your day-to-day life. With public transportation, an e-bike with a trailer, you can get surprisingly far and do good for your health and the environment. For special occasions, you can rent a car – privately or professionally via Mobility or another type of car-sharing.
There are alternatives to costly gym memberships and high course costs, such as fixed meet-up times for a fitness trail with your neighbor or online Pilates with a friend. Instead of going out, invite the couple from across the street to a home movie or games night – this way, you will also save the cost of a babysitter. And a wild water battle outdoors or splashing in the creek is just as much fun for your children as a visit to the public swimming pool.
Good news for all parents: It doesn’t take much to make children happy. Camping on a relative’s farm – or even in your own garden: That’s a real adventure! If you prefer more comforts, you can maybe find a family in your circle of acquaintances who is open to a week of house-sitting or a house swap.
Let your tight budget motivate you to get rid of one or two bad habits. Stop smoking? Drink less alcohol? Pack a lunch from home? Bike to work? – All things that are not only easy on the budget, but that can also even make you a little happy.
After all these savings tips, an important tip at the end: You can also save on the wrong things. What helps in the short term but harms in the long term is not an ideal savings measure. So take good care of yourself and your loved ones. And make provision for the future as best you can, even if your budget is tight.
Reserves: Put some money aside every month, even if it is only a modest amount. If you don’t have any reserves, a high dental bill is enough to put your finances in trouble.
Repayment: Get rid of debt as quickly as possible! Even if it takes time – the main thing is that the debt shrinks. A list of debt counseling services can be found at Dachverband Schuldenberatung Schweiz (in German).
Pensions: Do you live your day-to-day life from hand to mouth? You can still set a realistic savings goal and stick to it. It is better to make slow progress than not to get going at all. The subject of pensions is crucial for the financial protection of your family.
Health: Healthy food like fruits and vegetables often cost more than unhealthy food. However, saving when it comes to your health is a false economy. In the long term, you will be better off if you take care of your body. The same applies to sports activities and – if necessary – to see a doctor on time.
Experiences: A tight budget or not – a passive lifestyle is not good. So be inventive when it comes to enjoying life. Having fun doesn’t have to cost much! Organize an family idea competition and reward the favorites with a small prize.
Anina Sabourdy is an Online Editor at AXA. She researches and writes on various insurance topics and loves the versatility of her job.
