With the long weekend finally here, thousands of Zambians are travelling to holiday destinations, family gatherings, music shows, lodges, bars, and outdoor events to relax and unwind.
Whether you’re heading to Siavonga, Livingstone, Chirundu, Lake Kariba, or simply enjoying the nightlife in Lusaka, the long weekend should be remembered for good memories—not financial regrets or avoidable emergencies.
Here are practical ways to stay safe while keeping your spending under control.
1. Set a Budget Before You Leave
One of the biggest mistakes people make is travelling without a spending plan.
Before leaving home, decide how much you are willing to spend on:
Transport
Accommodation
Food
Drinks
Entertainment
Fuel
Emergency expenses
Avoid dipping into money meant for rent, school fees, or monthly bills.
2. Don’t Carry Too Much Cash
Although cash is still widely used, carrying large amounts increases your risk if your wallet is lost or stolen.
Where possible:
Use mobile money.
Use your bank card where accepted.
Keep emergency cash separate from your main wallet.
3. Drink Responsibly
Long weekends often come with celebrations, but excessive drinking can lead to poor decisions.
Alcohol is commonly linked to:
Road accidents
Fights
Theft
Unplanned spending
Risky behaviour
Know your limits and never feel pressured to keep drinking.
4. Never Drink and Drive
If you’re driving, stay sober.
If you’ve been drinking:
Use a taxi.
Book a ride.
Let a sober friend drive.
Stay where you are until you’re fit to travel.
A single bad decision can have life-changing consequences.
5. Protect Your Phone
Your phone contains:
Banking apps
Mobile money
Personal photos
Contacts
Important documents
Avoid leaving it unattended and be cautious when using it in crowded places.
6. Travel With People You Trust
If you’re visiting unfamiliar places, avoid travelling alone late at night.
Friends can:
Watch out for each other.
Help during emergencies.
Prevent risky situations.
Always let someone know where you’re going.
7. Be Careful With Social Media
Posting your exact location in real time may attract unwanted attention.
Instead of announcing where you are while you’re still there, consider sharing photos after you’ve left.
8. Avoid Peer Pressure
You don’t have to spend money just because everyone else is.
Remember:
It’s okay to order soft drinks.
It’s okay to leave early.
It’s okay to say no.
Enjoy yourself without trying to impress others.
9. Watch Your Belongings
Crowded events can attract opportunistic thieves.
Keep an eye on:
Wallets
Car keys
Handbags
Phones
Laptops
Never leave valuables visible inside your vehicle.
10. Eat and Stay Hydrated
Many people spend hours drinking without eating.
Make sure you:
Drink enough water.
Eat proper meals.
Get enough rest.
Your body will thank you when the weekend is over.
11. Beware of Online Scams
Long weekends often come with fake accommodation offers, event tickets, and travel deals shared on social media.
Before making payments:
Verify the business.
Avoid sending money to unknown individuals.
Confirm bookings through official contacts.
12. Plan for Monday
Remember that life continues after the holiday.
Ask yourself:
Will I regret this purchase next week?
Can I still pay my bills?
Will I have transport money for work?
A great weekend shouldn’t leave you financially stranded.
Enjoy the Weekend Responsibly
Long weekends are meant for making memories, spending time with loved ones, and taking a well-earned break. The best celebrations are those where everyone gets home safely, stays within their means, and returns to work healthy and financially stable.
Enjoy yourself, look out for your friends, respect the law, and make choices that you’ll still be proud of long after the holiday ends.
