Savvy Tips to Stick to Your Savings Plan this Summer

There’s no doubt about it: the weather is heating up and Finance Opinion readers are feeling the burn – the wallet burn! From weekend beach getaways, to summer camps for the kids, the warmer months mean more activities and time spent outdoors, which also means more fun that you need to fund.

While summertime spending can certainly skyrocket along with the temperatures, there are ways you can stick with your savings and financial plans (and even save some cash!) this summer. Read on to find out why summertime seems to be the season that sucks up your savings, and how to combat it with a few savvy tips. 

Does Spending Really Skyrocket in the Summer?

It’s not your imagination – the amount of money the average household spends in the summer does trend higher than average compared to the rest of the year. In fact, the average household will spend over $2200 this summer. And, while that’s only about $100 less than the average family spends during the holiday season, more than 43% of Americans say summer is their most expensive season.

While the sticker-shock may be surprising, it does make sense. When the weather is warmer, we tend to want to do more – and “doing more,” whether that be dining out, visiting local amusement parks, or taking a weekend trip, often equates to spending more. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

4 Summer Activities to Help You Stick to Your Savings Plans 

Have a Picnic in the Park

When cutting takeout and dining out from the budget during the pandemic, Americans reported saving an average of $245 per month – not a small chunk of change! Instead of heading to a restaurant or picking up takeout, pack your own picnic and head to your local park. 

Be sure to pack a blanket (especially if your park doesn’t provide picnic tables and benches),  homemade sandwiches, fresh fruit, and snacks from your shopping list, along with fun games to keep the family entertained all afternoon! 

Head to the Local Beach or Pool

Speaking of picnics, your local beach or pool is a great place to eat outdoors and spend the day. While most beaches are free to enter, you will need to budget for parking and/or pool passes. If you frequent the beach or pool often, consider investing in a membership or parking pass to save a few dollars compared to daily passes. 

Host Your Own Outdoor Movie Night

The average American reported spending over $600 a year on movies and entertainment. Consider cutting that cost drastically by investing in your own outdoor movie projector for as little as $70! Portable projectors can easily connect to your phone or laptop, and make for a fun DIY experience that pays for itself after just a few uses.

Invite some friends, grab a few snacks from the pantry, and cozy blankets, to enjoy an   outdoor screening on a warm summer night. 

Visit Your Local Library

For booklovers, there’s no greater activity than perusing the shelves of your local library, especially on a rainy summer day. But the library isn’t just a great place to pick out your latest summer read! 

Depending on where you live, your local library can host all kinds of free and discounted tickets to local museums, parks, and even amusement parks. Keep in mind that you do usually need to reserve these in advance, so be sure to inquire early!

How are you sticking to your savings plan this summer? Share your ideas with the Finance Opinion team in the comments – we can’t wait to hear from you! 

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The opinions expressed in this post are for informational purposes only. To determine the best financing for your personal circumstances and goals, we advise you to consult with a licensed advisor.