Rises in the cost of living during 2022 have put more pressure on household budgets heading into the Christmas–New Year period.

An RACQ survey found 40% of respondents were not confident in their financial position and had no savings to fall back on in a year that has seen the cost of groceries, electricity and fuel rise as well as interest rate increases that have impacted home mortgage repayments.

With the survey finding 56% of participants considered the festive season to be a burden, RACQ members are reminded they can use RACQ Member Benefits to access discounts for products and experiences from a wide selection of program partners.

Many of these discounts can help ease day-to-day living costs, including 4% off Woolworths Supermarket eGift cards*, 5% off BIG W eGift cards* and a saving of 4c per litre on fuel at participating Caltex service stations#.

RACQ Member Benefits has recently undergone an enhancement with more exciting discounts from additional partners available.

RACQ Group Executive Banking Michelle Winzer said the holiday season should be a happy time with family and friends and encouraged Queenslanders to consider their finances.

“It’s been a tough year for many people with the cost of food, fuel, and electricity increasing substantially,” Ms Winzer said.

“We know this is the time of year when we get swept up in the spirit of giving and start spending beyond our means.

“Gifts, decorations, transport, accommodation, and food can add up quickly, and you end up spending more than you can afford.

“Try to have a conversation early with your loved ones and set a budget you’re comfortable with.”

Save in a range of ways, every day with RACQ Member Benefits. Find out how.

The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and not as specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice and does not take into account any person's particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives, financial situations and needs.

*Offer and discount terms and conditions apply. Visit racq.com or click on the links above for details. Retail partners, offers and discounts may change at any time without notice.

^#Conditions apply. Offer available at participating Caltex and Puma Energy service stations. Visit racq.com/caltex for details.