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How to Enjoy Easter Without Overspending

Ellie Macsymons·Apr 7, 2025

Easter is the perfect time to relax, get outdoors and spend time with family – but it’s easy for the costs to creep up. 

From Easter eggs and crafts to days out and entertaining the kids, expenses can quickly add up if you’re not careful!

That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate Easter savings guide – packed with affordable ideas, tips and deals to help you make the most of the break without overspending.

Whether you’re planning a staycation, hunting down chocolate bargains or throwing a garden party – there’s something here for everyone. Plus, don’t forget to check out our latest Easter deals and discount codes to save even more!

Budget-Friendly Easter Days Out

Easter school holidays are the perfect chance for family adventures – but you don’t have to spend big.

Low-cost ideas to try:

  • National Trust walks and attractions, or local farm egg hunts, often cost just a few pounds per child.
  • Many UK museums, galleries and attractions run free Easter events or kids-go-free deals.
  • Grab a football or kite and head to a local park for a free day out (don’t forget to pack your picnic for extra savings!)

If you’re travelling, save on transport by using Trainline or look out for coach deals with National Express. Travelling with friends? Consider carpooling to share fuel costs.

You can also find great value day-out deals on AttractionTickets.com or Activity Superstore – perfect for keeping the kids busy without breaking the bank.

Free & Fun Easter Activities at Home

Not planning a trip away this year? There’s still plenty of Easter fun to be had from the comfort of your home (that won’t cost too much either!)

Set up your own DIY Easter egg hunt indoors or in the garden. Use budget chocolate, print-your-own clues, or hide small toys to cut costs. You could also have an Easter movie night with snacks and a cosy blanket – check what’s on Amazon Prime, Disney+ or Netflix.

Other low-cost ideas include:

  • Back garden games like the classic egg and spoon race or a good old sack race are a great way to burn off some Easter energy without spending a penny.
  • Get stuck into baking with easy recipes like chocolate nests or homemade hot cross buns – most can be whipped up using ingredients you’ve already got in the cupboard.
  • Set up a board game tournament or a craft corner using low-cost supplies from Home Bargains, B&M or Wilko – it’s a fun way to keep everyone entertained indoors.

With a little planning, you can have just as much fun at home – for free!

Easter Crafts on a Budget

Crafts are a great way to get into the Easter spirit while keeping little ones entertained and away from their screens. You don’t need fancy kits either, just try these easy, affordable ideas:

  • Egg painting with cheap kids’ paints from Home Bargains or B&M. If you already have some paint lying around the house, that’s even better!
  • DIY bunny masks or garlands made from scrap paper or cereal boxes. Save up packaging, magazines and any bits of paper you don’t need and let your little ones get creative!
  • Decorate recycled jars to make Easter treat pots or table decorations. This is a great way to keep the kids busy while also making affordable Easter decor for your home.

Keep an eye out for seasonal savings on crafts at Hobbycraft, Ryman and The Works. You’ll often find craft bundles for £1- £3 in-store or online. There’s currently 30% off arts & crafts at Ryman until the end of April.

Save on Easter Treats & Gifts

It’s easy to overspend on Easter eggs – but you don’t have to.

Instead of splashing out on branded boxes, check supermarket own-brand chocolate or multipack offers from Asda, Tesco, Aldi or Sainsbury’s. These often offer better value and taste just as good!

More budget gift ideas:

  • Looking for thoughtful gifts without overspending? Cadbury Gifts Direct often runs Easter promotions and bundle deals – perfect for sending something sweet without paying full price.
  • If you want to skip the chocolate overload, why not go for something a bit different? Affordable alternatives like books, craft kits or even a family voucher for a day out make lovely, long-lasting gifts.
  • And for neighbours, teachers or grandparents, a little thought goes a long way. Try homemade bakes, a hand-decorated Easter card or a cheerful potted plant – small gestures that feel personal, not pricey.

Bonus tip: stock up on half-price eggs and décor after Easter and stash them for next year!

Host an Easter Picnic or Party for Less

Throwing an Easter lunch or picnic? Keep it simple and affordable with some smart swaps.

Instead of hosting a sit-down meal, try a bring-your-own picnic or garden buffet. Ask guests to bring a dish or snacks to share – it saves you time and money.

Great-value party essentials:

  • Stock up on Easter snacks and soft drinks at budget supermarkets like Aldi or Asda, where you’ll often find seasonal offers and great value party food. 
  • For decorations, head to Poundland, Home Bargains or B&M – you’ll find tableware, bunting and Easter-themed décor that looks great without costing much.
  • If you fancy being extra creative, try some DIY table décor. Reuse painted eggs, repurpose jam jars as vases, or tie a leftover ribbon around napkins for a homemade touch that looks charming and costs next to nothing.

You can also organise fun (and free) games like scavenger hunts, egg painting competitions or quizzes to keep guests entertained – no entertainer required.

Easter Staycations & Getaways on a Budget

If you’re dying to get away but need to stick to a budget, a short UK break can still tick all the boxes.

Check for last-minute deals with Travelodge, Premier Inn or Booking.com for 1–2 night breaks. You can currently get rooms at Travelodge for just £35 this Spring while Premier Inn are offering 20% off.

Travelling midweek or just before the school holidays can mean big savings too. We’d also recommend booking as early as possible for the best rate.

If you don’t want to spend, you can also get creative and stay somewhere local:

  • Pitch a tent in the back garden and have a camping night. You can make it cosy with plenty of cushions, blankets and even fairy lights. Plus, if you’re in your own garden, you can stay connected to the wifi and enjoy a film night.
  • Explore a nearby town or park you’ve never visited and enjoy a fun day out with the family. You can even organise activities like Easter egg hunts and sports games to keep your little ones active.

Last-Minute Ways to Stretch Your Budget

If you want to stretch your Easter budget even further, try these smart saving tactics:

  • Use a voucher code from NetVoucherCodes for savings on Easter breaks, craft supplies and Easter treats.
  • Sign up for store newsletters to unlock exclusive Easter offers.
  • Stack discount codes with retailer sales.
  • Use loyalty points (like Tesco Clubcard or Nectar) to reduce your shop.
  • Set a gift budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.

Shopping early helps too, especially for chocolate, travel and events, which often get more expensive closer to the weekend.

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