Twinkling lights, festive playlists, and the subtle anxiety of Mpesa statements – welcome to the holiday spending dilemma facing millennials and Gen Z. In a world where Instagram-worthy celebrations clash with financial reality, five young professionals are rewriting the script of seasonal spending.
Far from the traditional holiday portrait, these individuals are navigating a complex landscape of financial constraints, personal values, and the pressure to create picture-perfect memories. Between bill payments, rising living costs, and the siren call of holiday sales, how do they balance festive cheer with fiscal responsibility?
My Network dove deep into the wallets and wishes of these young professionals, uncovering a nuanced narrative that goes beyond mere transactions – it's about meaning, connection, and strategic celebration in an era of economic uncertainty.
Saving for holidays still feels like a luxury
Eugene Owade, 26 , Advocate of the High Court
This year, I've set a budget cap of Sh70,000—a number that feels both ambitious and necessary for holiday spending. Much as my spending philosophy is always a balance between planning and spontaneity, I have come to realisation holidays tend to sprout unexpected expenses.
Eugene Owade is an advocate of the high court based in Nairobi.
Photo credit: Pool
Social media influences my holiday planning. One moment I'm planning a simple trip to the village, the next I'm contemplating a flight to Diani or exploring vacation spots at the coast. The constant stream of information plays a massive role, especially for my age group, where most of our insights come from online platforms. I'm determined to pay my rent for December and January upfront to avoid January's typical financial stress. Then, about Sh10,000 for household shopping, with the remainder earmarked for travel and family gatherings. Travel isn't cheap these days. A one-way bus ticket can cost upwards of Sh2,500, and a flight, Sh8,000 just to go back to upcountry.
Family gatherings are the trickiest part of holiday planning. There are numerous parties, social meetups, and family events where spending can quickly spiral out of control. Sometimes you're not able to control these spontaneous expenses, especially when you're meeting people and interacting in various social settings.
I keep minimal cash on hand and prefer using mobile money or bank transfers. This not only protects me from potential overextension but also makes me think twice before spending. As an SDA (Seventh-day Adventist), my holiday celebrations have nuanced meanings. Christmas on December 25th isn't necessarily an obligation for me—it depends entirely on which side of the family I'm with. My maternal side celebrates Christmas, so I'll participate fully. My paternal side? We're all about the New Year—a time when the entire family comes together to take stock of the past year.
This year feels particularly significant. I was admitted to the bar, which is a major career milestone. Between professional challenges, health concerns, and financial pressures, I'm craving something more than just another holiday. If money were no object, my dream would be a complete escape—perhaps an out-of-the-country experience to Bali, or a remote location in Kenya with no network connectivity, just pure, uninterrupted family time.
As a firstborn, there's pressure to provide, but I'm learning to contribute only what I can afford. I allocate specific amounts—maybe Sh2,000 to Sh5000 for each gift.
Currently, I'm using my current income for holiday expenses. Saving specifically for holidays still feels like a luxury—something I aspire to but haven't quite mastered. It's a financial culture I want to develop, understanding that future planning is key.
It's not about expensive gifts but experiences
Mercy Temesi, 31, social entrepreneur
This holiday season, I'm approaching things differently. Last year was a struggle, with cancellations and budget constraints, but now I'm planning. My focus is entirely on experiences, especially travel. I've mapped out an ambitious 16-day journey across four countries - Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Uganda - because for me, travel is about more than just moving from place to place. It's about understanding different cultures, observing how people live, and connecting with diverse backgrounds.
Mercy Temesi, a social entrepreneur professional based in Nairobi.
Photo credit: Pool
My budget has expanded to Sh160,000 primarily to ensure my kids have an incredible holiday experience. It's not about expensive gifts. My children don't remember the gifts they got last year but they vividly recall the time we spent together and the highlights of the season.
Social media used to heavily influence my holiday decisions, but now I'm more strategic. I'll scroll through for inspiration, but my real research happens on the ground. I'm planning a trip to Victoria Falls - a bucket list adventure for both me and my children.
I'm extremely cautious about spending. There's always January lurking around the corner, and I'm disciplined about not touching my savings. My priority is ensuring my children are comfortable when they return to school, even if that means sacrificing my own wants.
This year, my approach is crystal clear: experiences over extravagance. I want to create meaningful moments without breaking the bank. The boundaries are set, the plans are made, and I'm ready to make this holiday season unforgettable.
I'm investing in moments that matter
Elizabeth Mathenge, Investment professional
As a finance professional, I usually approach the holiday season with a plan in mind. While I hadn’t meticulously mapped out every expense this year, I had set aside some funds to enjoy the festivities. Life, however, brought a few pleasant surprises—a spontaneous trip to the coast, for instance, which, though short-lived, helped me embrace the holiday spirit. It reminded me that some of the best investments don’t always come from careful planning but from allowing yourself to be present and open to the moment.
This year, I’m focusing on giving—not just material gifts but meaningful contributions. Participating in gift exchanges with colleagues and fellowship groups or simply being a blessing to my family has shown me how generosity creates lasting connections. For me, it’s not about how much I give but the thought and care behind it.
Elizabeth Mathenge, an investment professional based in Nairobi.
Photo credit: Pool
Heading home for Christmas is a tradition I hold dear. It’s more than just a journey—it’s a chance to contribute to family celebrations and reconnect with loved ones. As an adult, I’ve come to see this season as a time to give back, whether it’s helping with logistics, organizing meals, or simply being present. I consider this an investment in family and tradition, the kind that yields returns far greater than any monetary measure.
Looking ahead, I’m also thinking about opportunities I want to prioritize in 2025—like the affordable housing plan. It’s an initiative I believe could unlock significant potential, not just for me but for many who are seeking practical ways to secure their futures. This holiday season is giving me the time to reflect on how I can align my financial goals with opportunities like this.
Ultimately, the holidays are about more than spending—they’re about making choices that matter. Whether it’s investing in relationships, embracing spontaneous joys, or planning for long-term goals, I’ve come to realize that the best returns come from intentionality.
This Christmas, I’m choosing to focus on faith, family, and connection.
My budget is around Sh100,000, but I'm deliberate about every coin
Dalpheen Moraa, Human rights expert
Every holiday season is a carefully planned adventure for me, but this year feels different. I've learned that holiday spending isn't about extravagance—it's about creating meaningful experiences with the people who matter most. My budget is around Sh100,000, but I'm deliberate about every single coin.
Dalpheen Moraa is a human rights expert.
Photo credit: Pool
Half of my holiday budget goes directly to food and drinks—the heartbeat of our family gatherings. Everyone can chip in. These moments are about sharing, not just spending. The remaining funds are shared between gifts and miscellaneous expenses, always with one core philosophy: making memories that money can't buy.
Family is my priority. Throughout the year, we're all scattered, busy with work and personal commitments. But during the holidays, we reconnect. Our tradition isn't about lavish parties or expensive gifts. Instead, we gather, eat together, talk, and help each other. It's a beautiful networking moment where job opportunities are shared, future plans are discussed, and connections are deepened—all over food and conversation.
Our family gatherings follow a rhythm passed down through generations. We meet, share food, and engage in meaningful conversations. Sometimes we sing together, dance, or take walks after eating. For the younger crowd, the celebration might extend to clubs, but the core remains the same—connection and community.
I've watched how rising living costs have transformed holiday spending. In the past, people would spend everything because it was Christmas. Now, my friends and family are more intentional. We understand there's life after the holidays, so we keep things simple.
Interestingly, I'm not a big saver for holiday seasons. Unlike birthdays, which feel more personal, I approach holiday spending more spontaneously. I save for what makes me comfortable, understanding that these days are temporary and life continues after the celebrations.
My perfect holiday isn't about how much I spend, but about the quality of time spent with those closest to me. The most important thing in life is making memories.
I don't let sales or trends dictate my holiday plans
Valyne Kinya, 26, Communications and Marketing executive
As a 26-year-old communications and marketing professional, my approach to holidays is anything but traditional. My family doesn't do conventional gift-giving, and our celebrations are more about experiences than material things.
Valyne Kinya is a marketing and communication professional based in Nairobi
Photo credit: Pool
I'm planning to spend most of my holiday budget on travel to my home county and musical festival experiences such as Blankets and Wine. With an estimated expenditure of around Sh15,000 for each event, I'm looking forward to various activities. Most of my spending will be on travel.
I describe myself as a planner with a twist of spontaneity. This holiday season, my family is planning to stay within our home county, potentially visiting the national park. We prioritise spending time together over elaborate celebrations.
For me, it's about maximising wellness during the holidays. This is the longest time we're getting off work, so I want to use it wisely. I'm moving away from the traditional consumerist approach to holidays. I'm not caught up in buying new clothes or expensive gifts.
I'm resistant to social media-driven holiday spending. My plan is not to let social media influence my choices. I don't let sales or trends dictate my holiday plans.
I'll spend less than 20,000, primarily on gifts
Metrine Papa, 29, Communications and Marketing professional
Holidays are not an obligation for me. This is the duration where you get to spend time with your loved ones for a week plus. It's more about fulfillment and just going with the flow.
Metrine Papa is a marketing and communication professional based in Nairobi
Photo credit: Pool
I emphasise planning months in advance, while also remaining flexible. If something good pops up, I'll go for it. This year, however, is different. With financial challenges in mind, I'm focusing on minimising expenses.
I estimate I'll spend less than 20,000, primarily on gifts for family and outings with friends. I'm planning a road trip with friends to Port Victoria, which is a key highlight of my holiday season.
The social aspect of holidays is crucial for me. We always have a lot of weddings. It's more of a family activity. If you are a big family, there are always activities to be done. You will go to your aunt's or your grandmother's.
When it comes to holiday food, it often comes from family, reducing my personal expenditure. Actually, I think Christmas is the time I spend the least, especially on food.
I'm moving away from the traditional consumerist approach to holidays. Throughout the year, I always give myself small awards. If I need a new wardrobe, I'll buy it—not because it's the holidays, but because I need it.
When I fantasise about the ideal holiday spending scenario, I dream of a family vacation to Bali or Malaysia, experiencing a "Black Christmas" away from home. Maybe we'll start a totally different tradition—the whole family comes to an island for the holidays.
I'm resistant to social media-driven holiday spending. My plan is not to let social media influence my choices.
