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As the evenings get darker and the temperatures drop, it’s not just the chill that creeps in; higher costs do too. Between heating bills, Christmas spending, and the usual family expenses, winter can hit your wallet harder than expected.
With no energy credits planned for Budget 2026, rising costs could hit Irish households even harder. Now is the perfect time to start building habits that protect your finances long-term, not just for this winter.
The €250 energy credit in 2025 was a big help for many families, but with that support ending, finding new ways to manage rising costs is key.
Here’s how to winterproof your wallet and keep your finances steady through the cold months.
Know Where Your Money’s Going
Before you can save, you need to see the whole picture. Take 10 minutes to look at your recent bank statements. You might be surprised at the small, regular expenses that add up, such as subscriptions or takeaways.
Get Smart About Energy Use
Heating costs are one of the biggest winter expenses for Irish households. But small changes can make a big difference.
- Turning down your thermostat by just 1°C can save around 10% on your heating bill.
- Bleed radiators to make sure they’re running efficiently.
- Use draft stoppers and thermal curtains to keep the heat in.
- Switch off appliances entirely instead of leaving them on standby.
- Your shower, cooker, tumble dryer, washing machine, and kettle are the biggest energy users; try to use them sensibly to keep bills down.
- A tumble dryer can cost around €1.74 per cycle, making it one of the most energy-hungry appliances. Air-dry clothes when possible and use full, lower-heat loads.
Plan for Christmas (Without the Panic)
Christmas is magical, but it can also be expensive, especially with kids in the mix. Start early and spread out your spending.
- Set a clear budget for gifts, food, and activities.
- Try “Secret Santa” among adults to reduce the gift list.
- Shop around for deals and use cashback sites or apps.
Remember, the season is about making memories, not maxing out credit cards.
Review Your Insurance
Winter’s the perfect time for a quick financial check-in. Take a look at your insurance policies, whether it’s life insurance, mortgage protection, health insurance, income protection, or serious illness cover, and make sure you’re still getting the best value.
Comparing quotes from leading insurers can often reveal big savings, and even a few euros a month adds up over the year.
We make it easy to compare and find the best cover at the best price so you can keep your protection strong and your costs low.
Be smart with your money. Get a personalised quote today!
Build a “Winter Cushion”
Unexpected costs tend to show up when it’s least convenient, the car breaks down, the boiler acts up, or someone gets sick. Having a small emergency fund can help you avoid turning to credit.
Start small: set aside even €10–€20 per week in a separate savings account. You’ll thank yourself later when something unexpected pops up.
Protect What Matters Most
Winter is also a good reminder of why financial protection matters. If something were to happen to you or your partner, would your family have enough to manage?
Life insurance and income protection policies can help keep your family secure no matter what the season brings.
Simple Habits That Can Save More Than You Think
Small lifestyle changes can make a surprisingly big difference over time. Try a few of these this winter:
- Have one or two “no-spend” days each week. Skip the takeaway or online shop and watch your savings grow.
- Switch providers — energy, broadband, insurance, or mortgage. It’s easier than ever and could save you hundreds in less than an hour.
- Go own-brand for everyday groceries. The savings add up fast, and quality has improved massively in recent years.
- Use your freezer smartly. Freeze close-to-date food and plan meals around what you already have to reduce waste.
They might seem small, but together these steps can put real money back in your pocket, just when you need it most.
Be smart with your money. Get a personalised quote today!
Get Your Financial Planning Quote
Winter is a wonderful time, and it doesn’t have to come with financial stress. By setting a budget, having a financial plan, and being mindful of your spending, you can enjoy the season without worrying about overspending.
The same approach works all year round, and thoughtful financial planning is key to achieving your goals. Our financial advisors are here to help. Get a financial planning quote today and take the first step toward a more secure and stress-free future.
Stay warm, stay smart, and protect what matters most.
We also provide various financial services, such as mortgages, serious illness cover, income protection, pensions, life insurance, health insurance, and savings & investments.
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All our content has been written or overseen by a qualified financial advisor. However, you should always seek individual financial advice for your unique circumstances.
