Monday, June 24, 2013

6 Summer Budget Tips



Summer is here and we are gearing up for some much needed family fun. At our house we live on one income so I am pretty conscious of my family's budget. Actually, truth be told I am a little obsessive over it. I enjoy redoing my budget, and finding even more ways to save money.

Summertime brings with it promises for lots of fun activities, and special memories, which can be difficult to accomplish without a budget. Here are five summer budget tips that are sure to save you money.

1. Pause your t.v. If you tend to spend most of your time during the summer months outdoors, what is the sense in paying your cable or satellite bill? Did you know that you could call your television provider and ask them to pause your account for up to six months? I made the decision to pause our t.v. for the summer months and bring it back this fall. It only costs me $5 per month rather than 49.99 per month. That is a savings of $150 for three months.

2. Planting a garden is a great way to save money on fresh fruits and vegetables. This is especially  true if you are buying organic produce.  For a little money up front to get your garden started you can save money each time you visit the grocery store. I find gardening to be quite fulfilling. You never know, you might discover a new hobby.

3. Dry your clothes outside to save money on your electricity bill.

4. Visit your town's website to find out about community events that are free or of low cost. My town office shares special events on their website that allow for residents to join in the fun. Also visit your local library for weekly story time, and other planned events with the kiddos.

5. Plan your summer spending wisely.  If you make a summer fun to do list early on you will have a guideline to refer back to. Outline the summer outings, and events you would like to do that costs money, and budget for those items.

6. Stay local for summer vacation. If you are planning to use your vacation time during the summer months but you would like to save money in the process, what not stay local? Beach trips, picnics, and the local playground all provide summer fun. You can also camp outside on the front lawn, rather than paying for a campground.  You can still make s'mores in your family's fire pit. The kids will love it.

Do you have a summer fun budget?


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