Summer is officially here! With longer days, warmer weather, and calendars quickly filling up, it’s the perfect season to make memories. But all that fun in the sun can also bring rising expenses. The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying summer and sticking to your financial goals. It’s not about cutting back on fun — it’s about spending smarter. Here are six simple and effective ways to stretch your budget and save money this summer:
1. Plan a “Staycation”
You don’t need to travel far to make unforgettable memories. A staycation can be just as exciting and significantly more affordable than a faraway trip. Start by exploring local attractions you may have previously overlooked. Many city and town websites offer lists of free community events, such as outdoor movie nights, festivals, and concerts in the park. Nature lovers can find scenic trails through websites like AllTrails, or cool off at splash pads and public pools, often listed on municipal websites. Your local library is another often-overlooked gem. Beyond books, many offer free programs, family-friendly workshops, and even discounted passes to area attractions. If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, try exploring a new neighborhood ice cream shop, packing a picnic for a local park, or setting up a backyard camping adventure. For those wanting to branch out just a bit, you can find affordable campsites through Hipcamp. ResortPass is another way to enjoy hotel amenities without the overnight price tag, allowing you to purchase a day pass to access hotel features like the pool or spa. These small adventures can add up to a summer full of memories, without sabotaging your budget.
2. Strategize Your Summer Meals
Summer can take a toll on your food budget, especially when dining out becomes a regular habit. Instead of racking up restaurant bills, consider hosting casual backyard barbecues or potluck-style dinners with friends and family. When you do decide to eat out, look for lunch specials or happy hour deals, which are often significantly more affordable than dinner menus. Many restaurants post their deals on their websites or social media pages, so it pays to do a quick search beforehand. At home, the key to saving money on food is planning ahead. Meal prepping can help reduce last-minute takeout and minimizes food waste. Free resources like the USDA’s MyPlate website can help with meal ideas, portion planning, and grocery budgeting. A little thought in the kitchen goes a long way when it comes to summer savings.
3. Cut Down on Utility Bills
Rising temperatures can also lead to rising utility costs, but a few energy-saving strategies can help keep your bills manageable. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat, so you can raise the temperature while you're away from home. According to Energy.gov, even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill. Ceiling fans can also help circulate air and make rooms feel cooler while using less energy than air conditioning. Just make sure your fan is set to spin counterclockwise during summer months to pull up the warm air. Another simple way to cut utility costs is to cook outdoors. Using your grill or outdoor kitchen instead of your oven or stove helps keep indoor temperatures lower, reducing the need to run your AC. These small changes can add up to big savings over the course of the summer.
4. Temporarily Pause Your Subscriptions
With so much to do outdoors during the summer, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your recurring subscriptions. Consider pausing streaming services or apps if you’re not using them as much. Less screen time will be good for both your body and your wallet! You might also consider pausing your gym membership as well in favor of outdoor exercise such as walking, biking, or swimming. Pausing unnecessary subscriptions in the summer can free up extra room in your budget and help you better enjoy the warmer weather.
5. Use Your Car Less
With warmer weather on your side, it’s a great time to walk, bike, or use public transportation whenever possible. Not only will you save money on gas, but you’ll also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, leading to long-term savings on maintenance. Whether you’re running errands, heading to a nearby café, or commuting to work, consider ditching the car and taking a more scenic route. Use tools like Google Maps to find pedestrian- or bike-friendly paths in your area. It’s a small lifestyle shift that benefits both your budget and your health.
6. Make Some Extra Cash
Summer is also an ideal time to boost your budget with a little extra income. Hosting a yard sale is a great way to declutter and earn money at the same time. For tips on planning a successful sale, check out Clutter’s guide. If a traditional yard sale isn’t your style, consider selling gently used items through online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. If you find yourself with some extra time, picking up a side hustle can also be a great financial move. Freelancing, pet-sitting, tutoring, or food delivery are just a few examples of flexible opportunities available through websites like Upwork. Even a few extra hours of work a week have a meaningful impact on your financial goals this summer.
A budget-friendly summer doesn’t mean missing out - it just means being more intentional with how you spend money. Whether you’re exploring local gems, cooking at home, or finding new ways to earn and save, you can enjoy the season while keeping your finances on track. As you find ways to cut costs and spend smarter, make sure your extra cash is working just as hard as you are. Consider maximizing your summer savings into by placing them in a high-interest savings or money market account.
1. Plan a “Staycation”
You don’t need to travel far to make unforgettable memories. A staycation can be just as exciting and significantly more affordable than a faraway trip. Start by exploring local attractions you may have previously overlooked. Many city and town websites offer lists of free community events, such as outdoor movie nights, festivals, and concerts in the park. Nature lovers can find scenic trails through websites like AllTrails, or cool off at splash pads and public pools, often listed on municipal websites. Your local library is another often-overlooked gem. Beyond books, many offer free programs, family-friendly workshops, and even discounted passes to area attractions. If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, try exploring a new neighborhood ice cream shop, packing a picnic for a local park, or setting up a backyard camping adventure. For those wanting to branch out just a bit, you can find affordable campsites through Hipcamp. ResortPass is another way to enjoy hotel amenities without the overnight price tag, allowing you to purchase a day pass to access hotel features like the pool or spa. These small adventures can add up to a summer full of memories, without sabotaging your budget.
2. Strategize Your Summer Meals
Summer can take a toll on your food budget, especially when dining out becomes a regular habit. Instead of racking up restaurant bills, consider hosting casual backyard barbecues or potluck-style dinners with friends and family. When you do decide to eat out, look for lunch specials or happy hour deals, which are often significantly more affordable than dinner menus. Many restaurants post their deals on their websites or social media pages, so it pays to do a quick search beforehand. At home, the key to saving money on food is planning ahead. Meal prepping can help reduce last-minute takeout and minimizes food waste. Free resources like the USDA’s MyPlate website can help with meal ideas, portion planning, and grocery budgeting. A little thought in the kitchen goes a long way when it comes to summer savings.
3. Cut Down on Utility Bills
Rising temperatures can also lead to rising utility costs, but a few energy-saving strategies can help keep your bills manageable. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat, so you can raise the temperature while you're away from home. According to Energy.gov, even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill. Ceiling fans can also help circulate air and make rooms feel cooler while using less energy than air conditioning. Just make sure your fan is set to spin counterclockwise during summer months to pull up the warm air. Another simple way to cut utility costs is to cook outdoors. Using your grill or outdoor kitchen instead of your oven or stove helps keep indoor temperatures lower, reducing the need to run your AC. These small changes can add up to big savings over the course of the summer.
4. Temporarily Pause Your Subscriptions
With so much to do outdoors during the summer, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your recurring subscriptions. Consider pausing streaming services or apps if you’re not using them as much. Less screen time will be good for both your body and your wallet! You might also consider pausing your gym membership as well in favor of outdoor exercise such as walking, biking, or swimming. Pausing unnecessary subscriptions in the summer can free up extra room in your budget and help you better enjoy the warmer weather.
5. Use Your Car Less
With warmer weather on your side, it’s a great time to walk, bike, or use public transportation whenever possible. Not only will you save money on gas, but you’ll also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, leading to long-term savings on maintenance. Whether you’re running errands, heading to a nearby café, or commuting to work, consider ditching the car and taking a more scenic route. Use tools like Google Maps to find pedestrian- or bike-friendly paths in your area. It’s a small lifestyle shift that benefits both your budget and your health.
6. Make Some Extra Cash
Summer is also an ideal time to boost your budget with a little extra income. Hosting a yard sale is a great way to declutter and earn money at the same time. For tips on planning a successful sale, check out Clutter’s guide. If a traditional yard sale isn’t your style, consider selling gently used items through online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. If you find yourself with some extra time, picking up a side hustle can also be a great financial move. Freelancing, pet-sitting, tutoring, or food delivery are just a few examples of flexible opportunities available through websites like Upwork. Even a few extra hours of work a week have a meaningful impact on your financial goals this summer.
A budget-friendly summer doesn’t mean missing out - it just means being more intentional with how you spend money. Whether you’re exploring local gems, cooking at home, or finding new ways to earn and save, you can enjoy the season while keeping your finances on track. As you find ways to cut costs and spend smarter, make sure your extra cash is working just as hard as you are. Consider maximizing your summer savings into by placing them in a high-interest savings or money market account.