Summer is expensive for families. With the kids home from school, your grocery bills will undoubtedly go up. If you pay for daycare or summer camp, that can also eat a big chunk out of your household budget.
And if you’re planning for a vacation? Gas or airline fares, hotel prices and convenience food can quickly devour your budget.
A recent GOBankingRates survey revealed that more than 57% of Americans plan to stick to a budget this summer. On the heels of Memorial Day weekend, we’ve got 50 expert tips to help you save over the next several months.
Also here are seven tips to help create a summertime budget and stick to it.
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Find Free Entertainment in Nature
“For entertainment, explore free activities such as nature hikes, library visits and community events,” said Andrew Latham, Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and managing editor at SuperMoney.com.
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Visit Your Local Public Library
Julie Beckham, financial education officer at Rockland Trust, agreed with Latham’s suggestion of relying on your local public library for free entertainment. Libraries offer more than just free books, children’s activities, crafts and computers.
“Your local library (or one in the next city or town over) may have free events every day or even access to tickets for local events and museums,” she said.
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Take Advantage of Free Days at Zoos and Museums
New York’s Bronx Zoo famously offers free admission every Wednesday. The Smithsonian Zoo in Washington, D.C. is free every day, as are all Smithsonian Museums and Zoos except for the Cooper Hewitt in New York City.
Many museums in cities across the U.S. offer “pay what you wish” or free admission. The Museums For All program offers free or reduced admission for families receiving SNAP-EBT benefits.
Use Apps and Websites To Find the Best Deals
“There are many online coupon sites out there that have money-saving deals for restaurants, museums, concerts and more,” Beckham said. “Many apps can also help you find local deals and discounts.”
One go-to resource should be Groupon, where you can buy discounted tickets to local attractions like escape rooms and bowling centers to keep the kids cool and occupied on hot or rainy summer days.
Check Local Websites To Find Free Movie Nights and Concerts
“Many communities offer free events during the summer, from outdoor concerts to farmers’ markets,” said Renee McBride, digital marketing manager at Net Pay Advance. “Make the most of these opportunities for low-cost entertainment. It’s a great way to enjoy the season and explore the unique fun your town has to offer without breaking the bank.”
Websites like MommyPoppins.com and Patch list free local events for kids and families of all ages. When you visit MommyPoppins, you can check for camps, classes and other events in your region, from Long Island to Los Angeles.
Splurge on a CityPass
If you live near a major city or plan to visit one, you’ll save on tourist attractions with a CityPASS. Choose from 16 major cities and see five of the top attractions for up to 40% off or more. Whether you are planning a day trip to Chicago or celebrating summer at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio and want to see other sights while you are there, Citypass makes it more affordable.
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Pack a Picnic at the Local Park
Building summer core memories for your kids doesn’t have to be extravagant, Beckham said. “A trip to the park and homemade popsicles might be heaven to them.”
“It might seem like you’re alone, as you scroll through Instagram spotting everyone’s vacations while dipping your feet into a plastic pool,” she said. “But consider those posts a mirage. Try not to put your (or the world’s) expectations of a perfect summer on your kids. You might wish you had your feet in the sand somewhere exotic, but your little ones just want to spend time with YOU!”
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