Memorial Day weekend has always marked the start of summer for me. There are so many things to do and enjoy once the weather warms up outside! Sticking to your budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Here are some tips for saving this summer while still taking advantage of all it has to offer:
Stay cool. There are tons of ways to beat the heat without spending a fortune. For starters, raise your thermostat just a bit so your air conditioning isn’t running on full-blast. It also tends to cool down a few degrees at night, so you could even consider opting for open windows and fans to get a breeze. During hot summer days, taking a swim is my favorite way to cool off. Many towns have a community pool that generally offers a summer membership for a low price that would allow you unlimited use, or to save even more, head to a friend’s pool for free!
Skip the restaurants. Some people prefer to head indoors when the temperature rises in search of air conditioning, but you’ll end up spending more money than you normally would if you’re consistently dining out to avoid your hot oven. Cook light, cooler meals (i.e. salads instead of soups, etc.) using fresh ingredients from the grocery store and consider having a picnic in the shade. You’ll save more by preparing your own food, and you’ll avoid the heat from the sun.
Entertainment. Summer usually has an abundance of free things to do. Keep an eye out for festivals, concerts and the like – admission is usually free, and you can usually grab a bite to eat for pretty cheap. It’s also a great way to learn more about where you live and experience all your town has to offer.
Take a trip. A week-long vacation might not be in your budget, but you could probably afford to take a few day trips here and there to nearby attractions. Consider visiting a state park where there’s typically a variety of activities offered – kayaking, swimming, hiking, etc. Local theme parks or water parks are also great ways to spend an afternoon without having to go too far from home.
Summer doesn’t last too long for us here in Pittsburgh, so I try to make the most of it while it lasts. Do you have any tips for saving money while still having fun? Share them with us!
