Summer can be a time for making great memories and having fun as a family. But you don’t need to put your finances at risk to do so. Plan ahead and shop smart, and you’ll be able to have a memorable time while keeping your savings account intact!
Save On Food
- During summer, many stores offer special prices on hot dogs, hamburger patties, and other grill-friendly meats. If you have a large freezer, stock up while the prices last!
- Check your weekly grocery ads for good prices on crackers, chips, and condiments like ketchup and mustard. Make sure to check expiration dates and keep your pantry stock rotating.
- Do you have a local farmer’s market or CSA farm? If so, you can often get the freshest produce possible for a great price. Get to know the people who grow your food and support local farmers.
- Got extra fruits or vegetables from your garden or CSA box? Try freezing or canning them for later.
Save On Bills
- Try to limit the use of your air conditioner (AC). Depending on where you live, this can be tough! Run fans instead when it’s less hot, such as in the early morning and evenings.
- If you are running the AC, close your windows and close the doors of any rooms that aren’t being used. Keep your AC units in good condition, with clean filters.
- Change out your regular light bulbs for compact fluorescent or LED bulbs. If you have a yard or patio, consider buying outdoor solar light fixtures to light up your evenings.
- Use less water wherever possible. Depending on where you live, rebates may be available for replacing your lawn with drought-tolerant plants.
- Cook outside if possible to save on cooling costs.
Save On Entertainment
- Cancel your cable subscription. If you have Internet access at home, you’ll save money by watching films and TV shows on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Instant Video. Plus, these services let you watch on mobile devices.
- Rent or stream movies instead of going to the theater. You’ll save on admission and you can make your own popcorn!
- Take a class to learn a new skill; check community centers or colleges in your area for options. Or learn new skills online with sites like Duolingo or Khan Academy.
- Check your local newspaper or Patch for free or low-cost community activities, especially if you have kids.
- Instead of going out for meals and drinks with friends, entertain at home. Backyard pool parties (even if the pool’s inflatable!) or cookouts can be just as fun as fancy dinners.
Going on vacation is great, but there’s plenty of frugal fun to be had at home in the summer too! Remember, every dollar you save on summer fun means you’re that much closer to achieving your financial goals.
This article should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. You may wish to consult a tax or financial advisor about your individual financial situation. Christian Community Credit Union is an Equal Housing Lender.
