It is probably many – perhaps above all families with children – who have exceeded the vacation budget during the summer. And it does not have to be a problem in itself, but according to Länsförsäkringar's private economist Stefan Westerberg, it is of utmost importance that one's own economy is sound and under control.
Otherwise, it can get tough.
If you experience that you have problems, the most important thing is to take care of them. You should not stick your head in the sand, the consequences can be very large and expensive, he says.
The lunch box gives thousands
For everyone who wants to kick-start savings before the fall, Stefan Westerberg has a number of concrete tips. Among other things, you can sell things you no longer need, look carefully for discounts and offers, and review your digital subscription services.
There are many things you can do to keep expenses down. But above all, I would say that you can take lunch boxes to work instead of eating out, you can earn many thousands of kronor on that.
Another big advantage is being price-conscious when it comes to mortgages and other agreements. Even a small difference in interest rates can give a large outcome.
Reasonable buffer
Almost everyone knows that a buffer savings is something good – but they are probably not as many who know how much money you should have set aside to cope with a tougher economic period.
Stefan Westerberg means that the answer depends on how large commitments and expenses the family has in everyday life.
It varies, but I would say that a family with two adults and two children should have four or five months' salaries. I think that's reasonable. Then I think you may have one or two cars and a summer cottage. The more things you have, the more expensive it becomes. The buffer is intended to keep you afloat if something unexpected comes up from the side, so you can avoid taking credits, he says.
