Summer is a time for fun and relaxation but it can also be a time for spending money, especially after being stuck inside during a longer-than-normal winter. We came up with some ideas for you to save a little extra money this summer so you can still get the most out of these precious few months of nice weather that we have without stressing about your finances when fall comes back around.
1. Alternative Childcare Options
We all know that the cost of daycare is expensive but summer offers unique opportunities for you to cut down on those costs. Look into summer camps, vacation bible school, or local library programs. My local community college offered a ‘College For Kids’ program that allowed me to try a bunch of different things throughout the summer that I still have fond memories of.
2. Plant a garden
Summer is the perfect time to start a garden. The average start-up cost for a garden is around $70 but can provide up to $700 worth of vegetables. As a bonus, it can be a rewarding experience for the whole family when you sit down for dinner knowing the work you put into the food.
3. Cut down on home costs
It’s hard to beat the heat so walking into a cool house after being in the sun is a big relief but you can cut down on your electrical bill with some minor adjustments. With smart thermostats, it’s never been easier to manage your air conditioning; by setting a schedule of having it off while you’re away from home then turning it on right before you get back, you could save up to $200. On those cooler days, crack the windows and enjoy the sounds of neature.
4. Dump your gym membership.
Summer is the perfect time to get your physical fitness outside. Walking, biking, and playing sports with friends are just few ways to get your exercise while saving that membership fee. Bonus tip: ask your gym if you can “pause” your membership so you don’t have to pay the sign up fee again when you’re ready to get back in the gym.
5. Plan a staycation
The kids are off of school and we have a few 3 day weekends so summer is a perfect time to take your vacation but you don’t need to pay for it for the rest of the year. Studies show the average family vacation costs $4500, with the majority of those costs coming from travel/lodging so a staycation can drastically reduce those costs. There are likely little pockets of your very own city you haven’t explored or maybe you’ve even avoided the “touristy” attractions since you live there but consider taking advantage of those to save money and experience more of your own backyard.
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below, how do you save extra money during the summer?
