“December wey go detty, na from now we go plan am!”
If you’re a Nigerian, you know that phrase isn’t a joke; it’s a financial strategy. “Detty December” is not just a month; it’s a cultural phenomenon.
It’s the annual homecoming, the season of concerts, weddings, epic parties, and linking up with friends and family. It’s the time to see and be seen.
But let’s be honest, the only thing “dettier” than the parties is the state of our bank accounts in January if we don’t plan properly.
The biggest challenge? Inflation-on-steroids. Everything, from flight tickets and Uber rides to the price of rice and event tickets, skyrockets.
That’s why the smart ones start preparing now. Here’s your guide to planning a financially responsible yet incredibly fun Detty December.
1. Create Your “Detty December” Budget
Before you save a single Naira, you need to know what you’re saving for. A budget isn’t a restriction; it’s your permission slip to spend wisely. Get specific!
- Travel: Flights to your hometown? Fuel for road trips?
- Events: How many concerts are you realistically attending? (Think Afro Nation, Rhythm Unplugged, etc.).
- Outfits: Aso ebi for weddings? New outfits for parties?
- “Show Love” Fund: Gifts for family, money for younger ones.
- Food & Hangouts: Budget for all the restaurant trips and nights out.
Once you have a rough total, you have your savings goal. Seeing the actual number makes it real and helps you commit.
2. Open a Dedicated “Sinking Fund”
Don’t just leave your December money in your main account; it will disappear. A “sinking fund” is just a fancy name for a savings account dedicated to a specific goal.
- How to do it: Use your banking app to create a separate savings pot and name it “Detty December Fund” or “December Flex Money.” Seeing that title will remind you what you’re working towards and stop you from dipping into it for regular expenses.
3. Automate Your Savings – The Ultimate Hack
This is the most crucial step. Pay your future self first. Don’t wait to see what’s “left” at the end of the month. Set up an automatic, recurring transfer from your salary account to your Detty December fund.
Let’s do the maths. We’re in September. You have about three months to save.
- ₦25,000/month starting now gives you ₦75,000 by December.
- ₦50,000/month starting now gives you ₦150,000 by December.
This way, you’re building your fund on autopilot.
4. Book Early to Beat the “Japa-ing” Prices
The number one rule of Detty December is that procrastination is expensive.
- Flights: A flight ticket that costs ₦80,000 in October could easily cost ₦150,000 or more if you wait until late November. Book your local flights NOW.
- Accommodation: If you’re not staying with family, book your hotels or Airbnbs early before they are either fully booked or ridiculously expensive.
- Event Tickets: Many event organizers offer early-bird tickets at a significant discount. Keep an eye out and buy them as soon as they are released.
5. Find a Festive Side Hustle
Want to boost your December fund even more? Think about a small side hustle you can do from now until the end of the year. It could be anything from freelancing online, offering a service you’re good at, or selling items you no longer need. A little extra income dedicated solely to your December budget can make a huge difference.
In the end, a memorable “Detty December” is not about spending recklessly; it’s about enjoying the fruits of your smart planning. By starting now, you can step into the festivities feeling relaxed and in control, ready for all the fun without the financial hangover in January.
