Summer Budget Tips: How to Save Money and Create Lasting Memories

Save Money and Create Lasting Memories All Summer

Despite the financial juggling act that comes with vacations, camps, and entertainment, especially when the costs for travel, dining out, and recreational activities rise during the summer, there’s a silver lining. The moment we step outside, the expenses accumulate, but so do the memories. And let’s not forget the increasing cost of summer camps and childcare programs, which are a lifeline for working parents. These necessary expenses vary widely based on the type and duration of the programs, making them hard to estimate and subsequently budget. But it’s all worth it when we see our loved ones’ smiles and know that we’re creating lasting memories, all within a reasonable budget. In today’s post, I am sharing 10 ways to save money and create lasting memories all summer long!

Summer Spending for Families

To bring some perspective related to summer spending for families, I gathered some statistics.  According to a survey by Bankrate, the average family spends at least $2,000 on summer vacations alone. This includes expenses for travel, accommodation, food, and entertainment. Additionally, the American Camp Association reports that the average cost of a week-long day camp is around $199 per child, while more extensive camps can range from $680 to over $2,000 per week. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) notes that household energy bills typically increase by about 20-50% during the summer due to increased usage.

These financial increases can be felt in numerous ways. Cost pressures can create stress or even indebtedness as parents struggle to adjust and keep up.

Summer Savings Guide

Let’s explore some ways to create lasting memories, save money, and not break the bank this summer. I reflected on my own experiences and thought strategically to devise these 10 ways to save.

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Plan Often

My initial thought is that we should plan everything, but in reality, busy families are busy. It may not be practical or even possible to plan everything in a literal sense. Therefore, I encourage moms to plan often.  This will allow time and leeway to incorporate necessary financial commitments, providing a sense of peace of mind.  For me, I use physical or paper planners. During my monthly planning time, which happens a week prior to the month’s start, I capture necessary costs for larger items such as camp fees, vacation booking costs, etc. Planning helps to ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Brain Dump

Create a Brain Dump of summer fun request. My kid’s asked if I could take them to a water park and the beach.  I also have a summer wish list. While writing the items capture associated cost. Evaluate the cost against your budget and check possibilities and x out things that don’t fit financially.

Search for FREE kid-friendly activities

Social Media is a great place to seek and stumble upon summer activities.  Once you click on one, the algorithm will do the rest.  Sad reality but slightly beneficial reality of social media these days.

Don’t eat your budget

Food costs are on the rise, so it’s important to be mindful of these costs. A meal plan or meal schedule can help minimize grocery runs and overspending on food. Here are three bonus tips:

1. Create a weekly meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. This will help you make a comprehensive grocery list and prevent impulse buys. I cannot stress enough the importance of planning.
2. Purchase staple in bulk and store them properly for longevity. Store in airtight containers to extend their shelf life, freeze, or follow other appropriate storage practices. This reduces cost per serving and minimizes the need for frequent grocery trips.
3. Getting creative with leftovers isn’t just about stretching your budget. It’s also a responsible way to minimize food waste and reduce your environmental footprint. Transform extra grilled chicken into a salad or use leftover vegetables in a stir-fry. Every meal you create from leftovers is a step towards a more sustainable future.

Look for sales

Look for sales on vacation bookings, food, and everything else. If you’re traveling, subscribe to or turn on notifications for flights, hotels, and attractions. 

Rebates

Look for rebates that give cash back on incurred spending. By being proactive and organized, you can effectively use rebates to save money on summer purchases. Use rebate apps, sign up for loyalty programs, and stay connected to opportunities.

Activity Planning

Planning activities in advance saves money for two key reasons. First, it allows you to work with and budget in advance. Second, it gives you time to pay over time if needed.

• Pro Tip: Early planning often allows for flexible payment options, such as installment plans or early-bird discounts. This can make more considerable expenses more manageable, reducing the financial burden at any time.

DIY (Do it Yourself)

There was a season where I would DIY everything. Well, almost everything. During that season, I had more time on my hands than I do now. Things were different and I could DIY a lot more than I do now. However, due to the changes in my life, I’ve had to adjust my DIY activities. But when possible, I still focus on DIY activities for my kids. During the summer this can offer budget relief. For example, instead of running out for ice cream. Make your own!

Price compare

A great way to save money is to price compare. This can take several forms. For example, you can take advantage of apps and websites designed to compare prices across different websites. This helps you find the best deals on the items you need without manually checking multiple places.

Request flexible work arrangements

Working from home and opting out of camps and child care saves money. It does mean that your kids will be home with you. Depending on their age, this can be hit or miss. My kids are of an age where they need me, yet, they don’t for periods of time. They are self-sufficient enough. If we survived the pandemic, we understand the value of spending quality time with our kids. We can survive a few stay-at-home days and create positive memories that will last a lifetime.

Memory Making

Making memories with our kids is a responsibility that we, as parents, joyfully embrace. It happens in the most simplest ways.  The fondest memories that my kids typically recall are the affordable or free ones. They’re the time when we build sand castles at the beach or stumble upon something beautiful in nature on a walk. Creating lasting memories on a budget is absolutely possible with a bit of creativity and planning, and it’s our role to make it happen.

Here are some ideas:

Game Nights: This a great way to bond without spending much. For added fun, ask your kids to create their own DIY games and enjoy.

Library Visits: Our local libraries have a fun line-up of activities, from crafts to STEM programs.

Stargazing: Spend an evening stargazing. Learn about constellations and enjoy the night sky. Apps can help identify stars and planets.

Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt with a list of things to find and photograph in your neighborhood, at a local park, or on a hike.

Volunteer Together:  Volunteering is a rewarding way to spend time together and give back to the community.

1 Peter 4:10-11

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.”

Camp at Home: Set up a tent in your backyard or even your living room. Have a mini-camping experience with a campfire (or candles), s’mores, and stories.

DIY Water Fun: Have water balloon fights, set up a sprinkler, or visit a local splash pad. These activities are fun and inexpensive.

Explore Your Town: Be a tourist in your own town. Visit historical sites and museums with free admission days, or take a walking tour of different neighborhoods.

To Wrap It Up

In conclusion, while the summer may bring a surge in expenses for many moms and families, there are practical ways to offset spending and save money. By researching available offers, utilizing rebate apps, and combining savings with sales and coupons, you can significantly reduce your expenses. Having a plan and staying organized ensures you maximize these opportunities, making you feel prepared and in control. With a bit of effort and attention to detail, these strategies can provide a sense of relief as you reduce financial stress and gain more control over your summer budget.

Traveling to Disney this Summer? Check out these budget tips – https://youtube.com/shorts/A5ysxkpibPI