The cost of a braai in 2026: Here’s what a family fire really costs

The cost of a braai has become a real talking point in South African households.

It’s still the country’s favourite way to get together.

But between meat prices, charcoal and the sides, the bill adds up fast.

So what does a typical family braai actually cost in 2026?

According to the National Braai Index, a classic family braai cost R713.37 for the week of 5 to 11 October 2026.

Add a six-pack of lager, and the total climbs to R818.36.

WHAT’S IN THE BRAAI BASKET?

The index tracks the cost of a typical family Saturday braai each week.

Its classic basket includes:

• Meat: 1kg boerewors, 1kg pork loin chops and a 1kg chicken braai pack.
• The fire: charcoal, firelighters and matches.
• The sides: rolls, potato salad, sweetcorn and chakalaka.
• The extras: braai salt, tomato sauce and foil.
• Something to drink: a 2-litre cooldrink.

BUDGET, CLASSIC OR HIGH-END?

The index also prices two other versions of the same braai.

Only the meat changes:

• Budget braai: boerewors, pork braai chops, and chicken drumsticks and wings, for R688.37.
• Classic braai: boerewors, pork loin chops and a chicken braai pack, for R713.37.
• High-end braai: boerewors, rump steak and lamb loin chops, for R968.37.

That’s a difference of R280 between the budget and high-end options.

WHERE THE MONEY GOES

Meat makes up the biggest part of any braai bill.

In the classic basket, the meat alone costs R294.97, about 41% of the total.

The index’s prices come from one major supermarket’s online store, so what you pay could be higher or lower, depending on where you shop, your region and the week’s specials.

That means shopping around before a braai could save you a noticeable amount.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

For many households, a braai is becoming a luxury.

According to the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD), the average household food basket cost R5,530.52 in July 2026.

The group found that transport and electricity were swallowing 62% of a worker’s wage, leaving families with just R522 per person for food each month.

TIPS TO BRAAI FOR LESS

• Compare specials across supermarkets before you shop.
• Buy meat in bulk and freeze what you don’t use.
• Make your own sides. A home-made potato salad or chakalaka is usually cheaper than ready-made.
• Try a bring-and-braai, where every guest brings their own meat.
• Use wood or charcoal sparingly, by lighting only what you need.