How To Spend Wisely And Celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri Fully

Festive seasons are all about joy, family, and great food. But they can also be heavy on the wallet. Whether it’s Christmas, Lunar New Year, Diwali, or Hari Raya, celebrations often mean extra spending on travel, gifts, special meals, and family gatherings. 

For Muslims, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is more than just a celebration, it’s a time to give, reconnect with loved ones, and honour traditions, some of which come with monetary costs. With rising living expenses, managing finances wisely ensures you can enjoy the festivities without financial stress. 

Setting a Raya budget 

Before getting caught up in the excitement, take a step back and check your financial situation. Look at your income, savings, and any extra money you might receive, such as a Hari Raya bonus. A well-planned budget ensures essentials like rent, utilities, and debt payments are covered before you begin festive spending. 

Prioritising zakat and other obligations ensure your financial responsibilities are covered before spending on food, clothes, gifts, or decorations. If you have financial goals like savings or investments, allocate a portion of your bonus there instead of spending it all on the celebrations. 

Prioritise obligations first: zakat and charity 

One of the most meaningful aspects of Raya is giving to those in need. Before diving into celebrations, make sure you fulfil your zakat obligations. 

• Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory donation given before Raya prayers. It helps purify the fast and supports the less fortunate in celebrating Raya. The amount typically equals one sa’ (about 2.5 – 3 kg) of staple food like rice or its monetary equivalent. The exact amount varies, so check with local religious authorities. 

• Zakat al-Mal is an annual donation of 2.5% from assets that have reached the required threshold (Nisab). Eligible assets for Zakat Mal include savings, gold, investments, and business profits.  

If you’re unsure about how much you need to give, you can use online zakat calculators or other regional platforms provided by Islamic financial organisations. 

Beyond zakat, sadaqah (voluntary charity) extends the spirit of giving. Whether providing meals, assisting a neighbour, or donating to a charitable cause, these acts enhance Eid without necessarily straining one’s finances. 

Budgeting for balik kampung travel expenses 

Raya often involves returning home to visit family, but peak-season travel can be costly. Booking tickets in advance for flights, trains, or buses helps secure lower fares. If your schedule is flexible, adjusting travel dates to avoid peak periods can also help reduce costs. 

Another option is to consider alternative transportation, such as carpooling with family members, which not only reduces expenses but also makes the journey more enjoyable. 

Accommodation can be another major expense, but if you’re visiting family, staying with them instead of booking a hotel is an excellent way to save money. If you do need to book a place, consider budget-friendly lodging options like rental homes or shared accommodations rather than expensive hotels. 

Celebrating in style without overspending 

Raya isn’t complete without delicious food, new outfits, and self-care, but these don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. 

• Food: Planning the menu in advance prevents unnecessary expenses. A mix of traditional and budget-friendly meals, cooking at home instead of ordering takeout, and sharing meal preparations with family can reduce costs while enhancing the festive spirit. 

• Clothing: While buying new outfits is a cherished tradition, there’s no need to splurge on an entirely new wardrobe. Mixing and matching existing pieces, accessorising, or shopping during sales helps achieve a fresh look affordably. Thrift stores also offer stylish and budget-friendly options. 

• Grooming: Instead of expensive salon treatments, consider DIY grooming at home, such as haircuts, facials, or manicures. Booking professional services outside peak times may also secure discounts. 

• Hampers and Gifts: Instead of purchasing costly pre-made hampers, consider curating personalised ones with homemade treats or affordable essentials. Group gifting with family or friends can also help share costs while keeping the gesture meaningful. 

Managing duit Raya 

Giving money to younger family members is a beloved tradition, similar to angpao in other cultures. However, without proper budgeting, it can quickly add up. Setting a clear budget for duit Raya prevents overspending. 

One approach is to allocate a fixed amount per recipient based on your financial capacity, your relationship with the recipient (how close you are to him/her) and the total number of recipients you have to give duit Raya to. Even small amounts, when multiplied, become a significant expense, so it’s best to plan accordingly. 

For those on tighter budgets, meaningful alternatives to cash gifts include books, stationery, food, or handmade presents. These small tokens still hold sentimental value without excessive spending. 

Embracing the spirit of Raya without financial strain 

While celebrations often involve spending, meaningful moments don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By planning wisely, prioritising obligations, and making intentional spending choices, you can enjoy a fulfilling Raya without financial stress. 

The best memories of Raya aren’t found in extravagant feasts or expensive gifts but in the warmth of family gatherings, the spirit of generosity, and the shared joy of the occasion.