by Christopher G. Cervantes, RFP

Every year, millions of Filipinos pack their bags, head to the provinces, and reunite with family to honor departed loved ones. All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day — Undas — is not only a time of remembrance but also a season of homecomings, reunions, and long drives.

But while it’s a heartwarming tradition, it can also be financially and physically risky if we don’t plan ahead. So before you light those candles and hit the road, here are Planadong Buhay tips to help you stay safe, secure, and financially wise during the long holiday.

1. Secure Your Home Before You Leave

A few days away means your house could be vulnerable. Make sure you:

✅ Lock all doors and windows, including service and bathroom doors.
✅ Unplug all unnecessary appliances to prevent short circuits.
✅ Ask a trusted neighbor or relative to check your home once in a while.
✅ Avoid posting your travel plans publicly on social media — burglars scroll, too.

If you have home insurance, check if it includes coverage for fire or theft during long absences. Prevention is always better — and cheaper — than repair.

2. Set a Realistic Budget for the Trip

Undas expenses can add up fast — gas, toll fees, candles, flowers, food for the reunion. Create a quick budget before leaving.

💡 Tip: Use the 50-30-20 rule — 50 % for needs, 30 % for wants, 20 % for savings or emergency fund.

Bring enough cash for small-town purchases, but avoid bringing your entire ATM savings. Many provinces now have e-wallet QR codes, so use them for safer, traceable transactions.

3. Prepare Your Car and Your Patience

If you’re driving, have your car checked at least a day before: brakes, tires, oil, and battery. Keep emergency tools, water, and a first-aid kit.

Expect heavy traffic on expressways — especially on October 31 and November 1 — so fill up early and plan alternative routes using navigation apps.

Remember: a calm driver is a safe driver. Kung mag-aalay ka ng dasal sa sementeryo, unahin mo munang magdasal habang nasa kalsada.

4. Spend Meaningful Time, Not Just Money

Undas is more than just picnicking beside a tomb. Make it a time to reconnect with your roots. Share family stories with the younger ones. Pray together.

If you’re the family’s “financial planner,” this is also a great chance to talk about legacy, insurance, and emergency planning — topics that often get neglected until a crisis hits.

5. Be Cautious in Crowded Cemeteries

Thousands flock to public cemeteries. Keep yourself and your belongings safe:

Bring only essentials — cash, ID, phone, small water bottle.
Hold your children’s hands and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated.
Avoid bringing valuables or wearing flashy jewelry.

Remember: devotion doesn’t require danger.

6. Protect Your Wallet from Impulse Buys

Street food, candles, toys — they all call your name. But small purchases can snowball. Set a daily “allowance” and stick to it.

If you’re staying several days, buy supplies (candles, food, flowers) before the trip — prices near cemeteries usually spike by up to 30 %.

7. Be Ready for Weather Changes

November weather can swing from scorching heat to sudden rain. Bring umbrellas, extra shirts, and waterproof bags for gadgets and candles.

Stay hydrated and wear light clothing. And if it rains hard, prioritize safety over schedule — there’s no rush in paying respects.

8. Reflect on Life and Legacy

Finally, Undas is not just about remembering the dead — it’s about reflecting on how we live.

Are we managing our blessings well? Are we building a legacy our family can carry on?

Maybe this long weekend is your sign to start a financial plan, set up life insurance, or begin saving for the future — so the next generation won’t just inherit memories, but also security and peace of mind.

Undas is a reminder that life is short, but how we live it is our choice. Whether you’re lighting a candle in the cemetery or sharing laughter at home, make sure your holiday is guided by wisdom, safety, and financial mindfulness.

Travel light, spend smart, and love deeply — that’s the true essence of a Planadong Buhay.

E-mail me at chris.cervantes@cardinalbuoy.com. Visit my website at www.cardinalbuoy.com. Follow me on Twitter @cervantes_rfp. Chris Cervantes is also the author of the best-selling book: “Financial Planning for the Fast Changing World, ” “LIfe Begins,” “The Seed Money” and “Odssey of Wealth and Legacy”.