Hi lasses!
I'm taking the back seat for the meantime and
sharing this post from MoneyMax.ph.
sharing this post from MoneyMax.ph.
Allow them to help you prepare for an important point in your life.
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Pregnancy
can be expensive. A trip to the Obstetrician-Gynecologist would set you
back at least PHP 500, and could rise depending on the doctor and the
hospital. Ultrasound can cost you anywhere between PHP 1,000 up to PHP
20,000 (they now have those 3D and 4D ultrasound scanners).
The
costs of the delivery itself, plus the hospital admission during the
mother's last few weeks of pregnancy, doesn’t bear thinking about, but
it’s among the many expenses you have to prepare for if you’re planning
to start a family
and have children. There are vaccinations, doctor's check-ups, diapers,
milk formula, and other things you need to budget for.
So how can expecting parents save money on newborn expenses?
1. Take Advantage of Insurance
If car owners have car insurance, and those who constantly travel have travel insurance, then it should be natural for a family to have health insurance coverage. A good health insurance plan for expecting parents should have maternity coverage,
which can help mitigate huge expenses related to pregnancy. Some even
have benefits that cover both the mother and the newborn after delivery.
Take advantage and claim your maternity benefits so you don't have to spend a lot during and after the pregnancy.
2. Go Second-Hand
Second-hand items cost less, and hand-me-downs are practically free. Things like baby clothes, strollers, carriers, and so forth
can be bought second-hand. Obviously, for hygienic reasons, it’s not
recommended you use second-hand baby bottles, teething toys, and so
forth. Some toys, like stuffed animals, can be bought second hand, since
you can still clean them up for your child
to use. There's also nothing wrong with reusing baby blankets and
cradles. Ask relatives who’ve raised babies before if they have these in
store.
3. Take to the Registry
These days, wedding registries aren't the only popular gift wishlists going around. Baby registries also exist, and it's where you list down a wishlist
of things you want for your newborn child. It can be anything from
toys, to clothes, to a new stroller and carrier set, and even baby
bottles and a baby car seat. Just ask your local department
store or baby specialty store if they have a registry available, and
don't forget to send the store's name on the invites for the baby
shower!
4. Open a Baby Savings Account
Kind of like an emergency savings account, this is where you place all your baby-related savings.
It doesn't even have to be an actual bank account. It could also just
be a large jar where you put in loose change or the money in your
pockets whenever you come home. Over time, you will accumulate a lot of
money that you can use to
spend on maternity check-ups, baby items, or even pay for the delivery
itself. Don't just limit yourself to loose change, though! It's better
if you keep on saving, even during the times when you have a lot of
money.
5. Do It Yourself!
Handmade items are considered to be great labors of love. What better way to your child your utmost love with than a handmade teddybear?
Or perhaps a baby quilt, to keep your child warm during the cold
nights. It doesn't have to be very fancy, but knowing how to DIY baby items
can go a long way. There will be a bigger sentimental value for the
object as your child grows up. Who knows, if you keep practicing making
your DIY baby items, you might even be able to start a small business
centered around it.
This post is brought to you by:
MoneyMax.ph
is the Philippines’ leading financial comparison site where you can
save money by comparing financial and car insurance products and
services – fast, comprehensive, and free. We aim to give the power of
smart purchase decisions back to Filipino consumers by providing
everything they need to become financially savvy. Like us on Facebook to get the latest tips on how to save.
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Happy Savings Dear Lasses and Lads!
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