With the rise of technology comes the rise of cybertheft. Australia’s banking industry faces significant risks. Learn how to secure your accounts. With the rise of technology, comes the rise of cybercrime. The banking industry in Australia is no exception to this, and it’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with online banking and how to better secure your accounts from hacking. The country has already had its ugly share of cyberattacks and data breaches in the past few years, with the most prevalent in recent times being hacks on The Guardian Australia, Optus, Woolies’ MyDeal, and ports operator DP World. Let’s explore the ways to defeat cybercriminals and protect your funds from cybertheft. What is Cybertheft? Cybertheft refers to the unauthorised access to and theft of sensitive information, such as bank account details, by individuals or groups through the use of the internet. Cybercriminals use various methods to gain access to sensitive information, such as phishing scams, malware, and hacking. Cybertheft can have devastating consequences, including the following. Loss of funds The most significant consequence of cybertheft is the loss of funds. Cybercriminals can drain your bank account, leaving you with nothing. In a case reported by 7News, a 56-year-old nurse in Melbourne was saddened to lose $200k in life savings after criminals wired $210 into her CommBank account and then called her up posing as a banker, asking her to wire it back. The criminals acquired enough details to get into the account and syphon the funds. Although the nurse was able to have the bank refund her money, it gave her a nasty experience and asked the public to closely monitor their accounts.  Identity crime Cybertheft can also result in identity crime, where the criminal uses your sensitive information to open new accounts, apply for loans, or make fraudulent purchases. The Australian Institute of Criminology looked at this problem further in its July 2023 evaluation of the Australian Cybercrime Survey 2022, which had 13,887 respondents. The data revealed that in the 12 months prior, 20 per cent of respondents confirmed instances of identity crime targeting them, with suspicious transactions detected in their bank accounts; a closer review of the origins pinned down the usage of names and credit/debit information, plus hacked devices, as the threat vector. Damaged reputation A data breach can harm your reputation and make it difficult for you to obtain loans, open new bank accounts, or even get a job. Make Your Bank Account Hack-Proof To better secure your bank account from hacking, it’s important to take a proactive approach. The following are some steps you can take. Multi-factor authentication Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your bank account, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to access it. According to the Australian CyberSecurity Centre, your bank’s MFA methods will include code generators within your app, biometric scans, and a one-time password sent to you via automated text upon request. As much as possible, prevent being caught in nasty situations such as holdups, where criminals could steal your devices with the account access.   Complicated passwords Create strong, unique passwords that are hard to guess. Avoid using easily accessible information like your name or birthdate. Fun ideas for a secure password include switching certain letters for numbers, favourite phrases that people don’t know of you, or codewords. Consider testing your email addresses through the Have I Been Pwned? website. Designed by Aussie cybersecurity expert Troy Hunt, the website will gauge your email addresses to see whether they have been compromised by a data breach; change your passwords immediately.   Regular account monitoring Regularly check your bank accounts for any signs of suspicious activity. This will allow you to quickly detect any unauthorised access and take action; you must talk to your bank’s customer support and alert them of any illegal transactions.  Treading carefully on public WiFi Public WiFi is vulnerable to hacking, so be careful when accessing your bank account or sensitive information when using public Wi-Fi terminals. In many cases, cybercriminals have also found ways to hack into a phone linked into a public WiFi grid. You can work this around by using premium VPN services which will allow you to access without the danger of penetration.   Vigilance Stay vigilant and be aware of the latest cybercrime trends and methods used by cybercriminals. Defeating Cybercriminals Defeating cybercriminals requires a combination of preventative measures and proactive behaviour. Below are some ways you can defeat cybercriminals. Updated software Regularly update your software and security systems, as this will help protect against known vulnerabilities. If you are accessing your accounts on a desktop, an updated version of any premium antivirus program can suppress any cyber threats. Self-Education Educate yourself on the latest cybercrime trends and methods used by cybercriminals. This will help you stay vigilant and better protect yourself. Report suspicious activity Report any suspicious activity, such as emails from unknown sources, to your bank and the relevant authorities. Keep a listing of the official contact details of your bank and reporting agencies such as the ACSC, AFP, and the ACCC Scamwatch.  Safeguard personal information Be cautious with the personal information you share online, as this can be used by cybercriminals to gain access to your bank account. To one end, you should not click on URLs included with text messages and avoid answering spam emails, even including those with attachments that are most likely malware. A spam filter in your email service will set them aside.  Bank Coordination Work with your bank to better secure your account. Your bank will have the latest security systems in place and can provide you with advice on how to better protect yourself. You must also heed periodic cybersecurity notices sent by your bank’s official channels. Conclusion Protecting your funds from cybertheft is crucial in today’s digital age. By being proactive and taking the steps outlined in this guide, you can better secure your bank account and defeat cybercriminals at their own game. DISCLAIMER: This article

What is a Pescatarian Diet? The pescatarian diet, or pescatarianism, primarily consists of vegetarian foods with the inclusion of fish and other seafood. This dietary approach can offer several potential health benefits. A diet centred on plant-based foods provides numerous health advantages, which can be further enhanced by the addition of fish and seafood. Budgeting for a Pescatarian Diet The Pescatarian diet is becoming increasingly popular in Australia as people look for healthier and more sustainable ways to eat. However, eating a pescatarian diet can also be expensive if you’re not careful. Here are some tips for managing your budget for a pescatarian diet. Meal planning Planning your meals in advance is an essential part of managing your Pescatarian budget. By knowing what you’re going to eat ahead of time, you can make sure you’re only buying the ingredients you need and avoid wastage. This will also help you stick to your budget as you’ll only be buying what you need. Seafood options While Pescatarian diets are basically vegetarian diets, they are touted to address nutrient deficiencies in vegetarian or even in vegan diets with more fish or seafood. For a Pescatarian menu, any seafood is fair game, including shellfish, salmon, tilapia, and cod. The team at the Healthy Fish, in particular, recommends going to the frozen food section at your supermarket for your seafood options. Tinned fish is still okay but the Healthy Journal recommends draining the broth to avoid excessive sodium intake.     Buy in-season produce Eating seasonally is not only better for the environment, but it’s also cheaper because of the seasonal harvest creating an abundance of produce, resulting in lower prices. So, make sure to buy fruits and vegetables that are in-season to save money and get the best quality produce around. Shop at farmers’ markets Farmers’ markets are a great place to buy fresh, local, and in-season produce. You can often find great deals on fruits and vegetables at these markets. You’ll also be supporting local farmers and producers, which is better for the environment and the local economy. Some food planners postulate that if you have frequently bought from a local farmer who always sets up at the market, they will remember you and might even offer some deals. Buy in bulk Buying in bulk is an excellent way to save money on your grocery bill. You can often find bulk bins of grains, beans, and nuts – all important components in a Pescatarian diet – at health food stores or supermarkets. Buying in bulk also reduces packaging waste, which is better for the environment, but has reusable storage containers ready to divide the bulk items and put them away in cool, dry places.  Use frozen fruit and vegetables Frozen fruit and vegetables are often cheaper than fresh produce, and they’re just as nutritious, especially when included in a Pescatarian diet. They’re also convenient as you can keep them in your freezer for longer periods of time. Use frozen produce in smoothies, soups, stews, and casseroles. For a Pescatarian smoothie, Everyday Health states that fruit (including a frozen fruit item) can be mixed up with kefir or yoghurt. Plant-based protein Plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu are cheaper than meat and fish. They’re also a great source of protein, fibre, and other nutrients, as those three food classes work well in a Pescatarian diet according to Oceanbox.  Choose sustainable seafood When choosing seafood, it’s important to choose sustainably-caught or -farmed options. This not only helps to protect our oceans and marine life but also ensures that you’re getting the best quality seafood. You can often find sustainable seafood options at your local fishmonger or at specialty seafood stores. Some may ask why go for sustainable seafood products as part of your pescatarian diet. Writing for UniSydney’s CPC RPA Health for Life Program in July 2023, Dr Rosilene Ribeiro said there is still a danger of mercury contamination in seafood products acquired in many markets. Custom meals and snacks Making your own meals and snacks is often cheaper than buying pre-packaged options. This also allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes. Try making your own granola bars, crackers, and hummus. You can also prepare large batches of meals and freeze them for later use. Leftovers A Pescatarian diet may have some leftovers but it’s tempting to just throw them away. Instead of throwing out leftover rice or vegetables, use them to make a stir-fry or soup. You can also use leftover fish or seafood in tacos or salads. Conclusion Managing your budget for a pescatarian diet is possible with a little planning and effort. If the above tips are taken into account, you stand a better chance to improve your health while keeping your finances in the black  So, go ahead and embrace the Pescatarian lifestyle. Money management apps like 2 Ezi are in an ideal position to help you with investing in a Pescatarian diet. The app allows you to accurately set a limit for your food budget against your other important expenses – from there you can work out your shopping list. DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. 2 Ezi has no business relationships with any company mentioned in the article. Please consult your general practitioner or nutritionist for further medical advice on pursuing a Pescatarian diet.

This article explores strategies single mums can use to secure their children’s education in private schools. Being a single mother is no easy task, especially when it comes to providing the best education for your children. As a solo parent in Australia, you may have concerns about funding private schooling for your kids. However, you can make it possible to have a good private education for your children. Issues with meeting educational finances have been a big question amongst Aussie parents, especially in recent times. An early 2024 study from Finder hinted that back-to-school expenses were expected to break $12.9 billion total – and buying school supplies alone accounted for $3.5 billion. In some angles, Finder’s Parenting Report 2023 also pointed at how many Aussie parents are grappling with a decision to send their children out of private schools and deal with burgeoning costs or enter into the public schooling system to save on expenses. Understand Your Financial Situation The first step towards funding private schooling is gaining a clear understanding of your financial situation, by evaluating your income flow and savings against expense levels. Create a budget to identify areas where you can cut back on unnecessary expenses and allocate more funds towards your child’s education. Research Private School Options Before making any financial commitments, thoroughly research private schools in your area. Compare their academic programmes, extracurricular activities, and reputation. Look for schools that align with your educational values and offer scholarships or financial aid opportunities. Some mothers might even aim for a school that can offer the full breadth of basic education levels. Ms. Jenni, a 39-year-old single mother, said she wanted a school that can build up her five-year-old daughter from “reception to Year 12”, to prevent reliving bad memories of her childhood where she herself was transferred to so many schools. According to Jenni, her daughter’s school said her child might not need to wear a blazer until a compulsory dress code is in effect upon reaching Year 4. Scholarships and Financial Aid Many private schools offer scholarships or financial aid programmes for students in need. Research and inquire about these opportunities. Prepare a compelling application highlighting your child’s achievements, interests, and goals. Some scholarships may be specifically targeted towards single mothers or children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Education Savings Plan Consider setting up an education savings plan specifically designed to fund your child’s private schooling. These plans offer tax advantages and can help you save for educational expenses over time. Seek Support from Family and Friends Don’t hesitate to reach out to your family and friends for support. Explain your goals and financial constraints to them, and they may be willing to contribute towards your child’s education. You can also suggest educational contributions instead of traditional gifts during birthdays or holidays. Part-Time Work or Side Hustles Consider taking on a part-time job or starting a side hustle to generate additional income. Look for flexible opportunities that won’t interfere with your parenting responsibilities. The extra funds can be directed towards your child’s education fund. Government Assistance Programmes Investigate government assistance programmes that may be available to single mothers in your area. These programs could provide financial aid, grants, or subsidies to help cover educational expenses. Contact local authorities or visit government websites to learn more about the eligibility criteria and application process. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding platforms can be a valuable resource for single mothers looking to fund their child’s private education. Create a compelling campaign explaining your situation, goals, and why private schooling is important for your child’s future. Share the campaign with your network and on social media platforms to reach a wider audience. School Tuition Payment Plans Some private schools offer flexible tuition payment plans. Speak with the admissions office to discuss the available options. These plans may allow you to spread out the cost of tuition over several months or years, making it more manageable for single mothers. Local Community Support Explore local community organisations, nonprofits, or foundations that support education initiatives. They may offer grants or scholarships specifically for children from single-parent households. Attend community events and connect with other parents to learn about available resources. One example of community support is the School Savvy shops run by Catholic Care Central Queensland. The pop-up stores offer school supplies at discounted prices, from water bottles to bags. A single mother from Mt Morgan who was interviewed by the ABC said the stores’ low prices have been wonderful in helping her prepare her two children’s school needs. Conclusion Funding private schooling for your children as a single mother in Australia may require careful planning and resourcefulness. By understanding your financial situation, exploring scholarships and financial aid options, and tapping support networks, you can make a secure investment in your child’s education. With determination and the right strategies, you can provide your children with a quality private education that sets them up for a bright future. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. 2 Ezi has no working relationships with any organisation or company mentioned in this article. For further financial counselling assistance please contact National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007), Mob Strong Debt Help (1800 808 488), Lifeline (13 11 14), and Beyond Blue (1300 224 636).

Estate planning is an important process that involves making arrangements for the distribution of assets and the management of affairs after one’s passing. However, certain complexities arise when accounting for divorced partners, loved ones struggling with substance abuse, or individuals diagnosed with disabilities. In this article, we will explore the complications that can arise in estate planning and provide guidance on how to navigate these sensitive situations. Estate Planning Around Divorce Divorce introduces unique challenges in estate planning, particularly when it comes to the treatment of former spouses. Adjustments to your estate planning may be vital, considering the most recent ABS data available indicating 49,241 divorces filed in Australia for a 2.4 crude divorce rate.  Update Beneficiary Designations After a divorce, review and update beneficiary designations on various accounts and policies. This includes life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) designations. Failure to update these designations may result in assets passing to an ex-spouse instead of intended beneficiaries. Revise Wills and Trusts A divorce often renders any provisions in a will or trust regarding the former spouse ineffective. It is essential to review and revise these documents to reflect the changed circumstances and ensure that assets are distributed according to the individual’s current wishes. This includes updating provisions related to property distribution, appointment of guardians for minor children, and naming of executors or trustees. Take note as well that Australia’s states and territories will have their own treatments on divorces and wills, which your family solicitor can guide you on. The team at Altus Financial claims that in some areas, a divorce removes the spouse who served the papers as executor if they were ever named in the will, and may not even be given anything due them. Address Custody and Support for Minors Divorce often involves child custody and support arrangements if the couple ever had kids. Estate planning should consider the well-being and financial security of minor children. This may involve appointing a guardian in the event of the individual’s death and establishing trusts or other mechanisms to provide for the children’s care, education, and upbringing. Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives During marriage, spouses often grant each other powers of attorney and healthcare decision-making authority. After a divorce,revoke or revise these documents to ensure that decision-making authority aligns with the individual’s current wishes and relationships. New powers of attorney and healthcare directives may need to be executed, designating trusted individuals to act on behalf of the individual in financial and medical matters. Review and Update Asset Distribution Divorce can impact how assets are distributed upon death. It is important to review and update any provisions related to property distribution, especially if there are specific assets or amounts designated for the ex-spouse. Additionally, the individual may want to reassess their overall estate plan and make adjustments based on their changed financial situation and goals. Estate Planning Around Substance Abuse Estate planning requires careful consideration if a beneficiary might have episodes with substance abuse. Leaving significant assets outright to someone battling addiction may inadvertently enable more destructive behaviour. In 2023, the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement expressed concerns about people having more digital channels to seek illicit substances (which may include people already hit with drug addiction) and sought input from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the Australian Institute of Criminology.  The following are some strategies to handle estate planning with a loved one under addiction. Asset Protection and Management Leaving significant assets outright to someone struggling with drug addiction may not be in their best interest. The funds could be misused, fueling destructive behaviour or exacerbating the addiction. To protect the individual and their inheritance, a trust can be established as part of the estate plan. A trust appoints a responsible trustee to manage and distribute the assets on behalf of the beneficiary, ensuring they are used for their intended purpose, such as rehabilitation, healthcare, or education. Substance Abuse Treatment and Support Estate planning can incorporate provisions that promote treatment and support for the individual’s addiction recovery. This may include directing funds from the trust towards rehabilitation programmes, counselling services, or ongoing therapy. By structuring the trust to provide financial assistance for recovery efforts, estate planners can contribute to the individual’s well-being and long-term recovery. Conditions and Incentives To encourage sobriety and responsible behaviour, estate planners can include conditions or incentives in the trust. For example, the trust may stipulate that the individual must maintain sobriety, attend regular counselling or support group sessions, or participate in educational or vocational programmes. Meeting these requirements could unlock additional distributions or benefits from the trust, providing motivation for the individual to maintain a drug-free lifestyle. Estate Planning Around Disability In estate planning, persons with disabilities (PWDs) require additional attention to ensure their financial security and access to necessary support.  Special Disability Trust One of the primary considerations for estate planning involving PWDs is the creation of the Special Disability Trusts (SDT). SDTs are designed to provide financial support for the person with a disability while preserving their eligibility for government assistance programmes such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or disability pensions. The trust can be structured to supplement public benefits by covering additional expenses not provided by government support, but consult the Department of Human Services for further advice as they can gauge eligibility for support. Appointing a Trustee When establishing a special needs trust, it is important to carefully select a trustee who will manage the trust assets and make distributions on behalf of the beneficiary. The trustee should have a good understanding of the individual’s unique needs, be financially responsible, and act in the beneficiary’s best interests. This trustee may be a family member, friend, or professional trustee. Financial Management and Assistance Estate planning for a person with a disability should consider their ongoing financial management and assistance. This may involve appointing a financial guardian or solicitor to make decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do

Choosing to be a stay-at-home parent is increasingly common in Australia. This trend reflects desires for family connection and cost considerations. The concept of a traditional family dynamic has been evolving. While the dual-income family model has become the norm in many households, there is a growing trend of parents choosing to be stay-at-home parents in Australia. This shift in family dynamics is driven by various factors, such as the desire for a stronger connection with their children or the cost-effectiveness of staying at home. However, the decision to be a stay-at-home parent comes with its own set of financial challenges, which can impact the family’s overall expenses. In this blog, we will pick apart the rationale behind why some parents prefer to stay at home, as well as the costs that can mount up for the Australian household. Reasons to be a Stay-at-Home Parent One of the primary reasons some parents opt for the stay-at-home life is their child-rearing philosophy. They believe in providing hands-on care and nurturing for their children during the crucial formative years. This choice is often driven by the belief that a parent’s presence has a profound impact on a child’s development. There are also concerns that hiring a househelp to look after a child may possibly gravitate that child’s parental bond to the househelp instead of the parents. In a world where the demands of work can be all-consuming, some parents decide to prioritise family life over their careers. The idea of achieving a work-life balance, with a focus on spending quality time with their children, can be a powerful motivator for parents to stay at home. Staying at home can sometimes be financially beneficial. In some cases, the cost of childcare can be so significant that it makes more sense for one parent to stay at home and look after the kids. This is particularly true when the parent’s income barely covers the expenses associated with working, such as childcare, transportation, and work-related costs. Some sources attest that childcare in Australia costs between $90 to $180 per child per day. The emotional well-being of the family as a whole can be enhanced when one parent is always present. This can reduce the stress and pressure experienced by working parents and foster a more positive family environment. Many parents find personal fulfilment in being directly involved in their children’s upbringing. Witnessing their children’s milestones, teaching them valuable life skills, and being there for them can be immensely satisfying. The Costs of Choosing Stay-at-Home Parenthood While the decision to become a stay-at-home parent may offer numerous benefits, it is not without its financial implications. The following are some of the costs that can mount up for households in Australia. Loss of Income The most apparent cost of staying at home is the loss of income. This can be a significant blow to the family budget, particularly if the stay-at-home parent previously contributed significantly to the household income. Reduced Retirement Savings When one parent opts to stay at home, they may also miss out on retirement savings contributions. This can impact their long-term financial security, especially if they don’t have alternative retirement savings plans in place. Childcare Savings While this might seem counterintuitive, many families spend a considerable portion of their income on childcare services. Stay-at-home parents, on the other hand, save on these expenses, potentially offsetting the loss of income to some extent. In a 2023 interview with News Corp Australia’s Mary Madigan, Brisbane resident Ms Rebecca said she has worked to manage her partner’s take home income by wisely budgeting their expenses, and when it came to childcare, she has homeschooled her eldest child as they are on the spectrum    Education and Skill Development When a parent steps out of the workforce for an extended period, they may miss out on opportunities for career advancement and skill development. This could hinder their re-entry into the job market when they decide to return to work. Household Expenses The cost of household expenses can increase when one parent stays at home. Additional costs may arise from utilities, groceries, and other daily expenses that come with a family member being home all day. Career Interruption Staying at home for an extended period can lead to a career interruption. Upon returning to work, some parents may find it challenging to secure positions that are on par with their qualifications and experience. Side Hustles for a Stay-at-Home Parent For many stay-at-home parents, the financial challenges can be daunting. To mitigate these challenges and contribute to the household income, many opt to pursue side hustles. Here are some viable options for stay-at-home parents in Australia: Conclusion In a household where one parent chooses to be the stay-at-home caregiver, the other often assumes the role of the breadwinner. For the breadwinning partner, it is essential to recognise the financial and emotional responsibilities this role entails. Effective communication and collaboration between both parents are crucial for a successful partnership in this family dynamic. The decision to become a stay-at-home parent is deeply personal and often influenced by various factors, including child-rearing philosophies and financial considerations. While the costs associated with this choice are not to be underestimated, many parents find the experience to be rewarding and fulfilling. Balancing the books and managing expenses can be achieved through careful financial planning and exploring income-generating opportunities. Ultimately, the choice to stay at home or pursue a career is a family’s unique decision, and what matters most is the well-being and happiness of the family unit as a whole. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only.

Night out expenses can add up quickly. Instead of unwinding with costly nights out, consider tightening your budget and finding more affordable ways to relax. People want to unwind after a long day’s grind. In many cases, that unwinding is done with friends or family, but what if previous nights out have ended with enormous bills? You can push back that trend and tighten belts for the next night out. Cash, no cards  Prepare a certain amount of cash and make sure to spend within that limit, especially if you’re just going to one place. A budgeting app like 2 Ezi may help in keeping to the spending cap. Do not bring any credit cards; that way there’s less danger of being tempted to swipe it on a whim, let alone the possibility of losing the cards due to misplacement or theft. Even if you have a debit card on hand, do not attempt to withdraw money or swipe it either. Avoid using smartphone payment apps The prevalence of buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) apps gave consumers added flexibility with their payment options. However, that also gives rise to unwanted swipes using QR codes. If you have certain BNPL apps on your gadgets, make sure not to engage them, as any usage could also appear on your credit card the same way as a swipe. Eat before going out  Some social experts advise eating a full meal at home before heading out. That way, you reduce the need to order food yourself and also not increase your appetite. Walking If the place you’re going to is not that far away from home, consider walking with your friends. Aside from the exercise and mental clarity offered by the stroll, you save money that would have been spent on taking the taxi or a rideshare. However, if the group is already tipsy, you can split a taxi on the way home. Not just a bar-only place You may have to check up on social establishments that have other features on offer besides a bar. That way, you can bond with your friends or meet new people over other activities that may not require some spending. Off-peak nights Not all clubs tend to be full houses most of the time. Research the evenings when your chosen venue is not at peak capacity. You and your party will have more maneouvre room and can watch out for each other. Even when the COVID-19 pandemic is not over, you may also be wary of people with symptoms – check your state or territorial authority on the level of community transmission. No pub crawls  Some groups of club patrons may have plans to visit a number of bars all in one night. Consider going home after your group visits the first bar to prevent incurring additional expenses. Promotional staff Some clubs may have promotional staff coming up to offer a drink. As much as possible, avoid the offers for your own safety and protect your budget. Nobody knows if the drinks they are offering are a potent kicker – or have been spiked with certain sedatives. Avoid big-ticket drinks Even if you resolve to have just one alcoholic drink, do not be tempted to order one shot of the most expensive drink on the menu. There’s a chance your entire budget for the night may be spent on it. Just one pitcher If your group is going for the same drink, ask if the dining place offers the drink in a pitcher and the team can chip in to cover that cost. This can save you and your group full price for separate glasses of the same drink. Take advantage of deals If you’re heading out to a bar, research beforehand if the place has deals. These may include free drinks for one person in a party depending on the size or half-price off certain drinks during off-peak hours. If you intend to hang out at a particular place going forward, some nightlife gurus suggest getting to know the staff and building relationships with them; they will appreciate your loyalty and possibly give you incentives. No to “waiter, another round!” If you and your friends are at the bar, limit yourself to one drink only and you can’t order a round for everyone on the team. You run the danger of considerably blowing your budget if you do order a round. Constant hydration Alcohol is a diuretic and will force you to hit the restroom many times in one night if the drinking is not controlled. You need to request water on tap to keep your fluid intake between drinks – even more if you only consume one alcoholic drink. Conclusion If you need a hangover meal, plan ahead by stocking up easy-to-prepare food at home, such as frozen pizza and pasta, coffee, bread (for toast) and fruit. It’s okay to have some time on the town with friends or loved ones. If there’s a way to bond without spending a lot of cash, so much the better. DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official financial or health advice. Please practise responsible behaviour in a public setting.