The Summer After The Pandemic

This summer will be more expensive than other summers because most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted.

Everything springs to life in spring, a season much more appreciated in Europe and North America than in Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific where the sun is a permanent resident.

The warmer it is, the more families go out.  It costs money, making it more challenging for families with growing kids because they want to be outdoors, paddling in some water. They also enjoy walking bare foot, getting the feel of grass and sand after being bandaged by socks and boots all winter.

Kids are happier during the summer, but parents sigh when they see credit card statements. Most families use them as back-up, after depleting checking accounts.

They are bracing themselves for a more expensive summer compared to 2020 and 2021 summers, which were non-existent because of COVID-19 lockdown. People will be out in full force this summer to celebrate, but how will they enjoy it if they don’t have a bigger budget?

Applying for a bigger credit card limit might be the answer, but finance charges kick in. Why credit cards? Because amusement park rides, driving vacations within the country, gas, the zoo, baseball summer camp, everything requires a credit card.

The other alternative is creativity. Families will have to think outside the box, like pooling financial and other resources, not just cars.

By: Nonqaba waka Msimang.