Sunny days are priceless, but summer activities can quickly put a strain on your budget if you're not careful. Whether it’s sipping frosés on the rooftop or last-minute weekend getaways, warm weather always brings temptations to spend. But not to worry! With some smart planning and money-saving hacks, you can absolutely squeeze all the fun out of the season without draining your account. Get ready for an epically memorable (and totally social media-worthy) summer that doesn't break the bank.
Let's kick things off with some real talk about creating a reasonable summer fun budget. Start by looking at what you spent on warm weather indulgences last year, whether it was boozy brunches, road trips, concert tickets, or other quick hits. Give yourself a limit for this "treat yourself" category based on what you can comfortably afford after rent, utilities, and other fixed costs are paid.
Once you have your total summer fun amount, we recommend dividing it up into a few separate buckets. Allocate the biggest chunk to any big-ticket expenditures like pre-planned vacations. Then portion out the rest into smaller categories like outdoor adventures, dining/drinks, events/activities, and spontaneous day trips. Knowing your limits for each area ahead of time will prevent overspending.
Getting out in nature is so rejuvenating for the body and soul — and it's cheap! Check your local parks and recreation websites for free outdoor movies, concerts, exercise classes, and events happening at parks and public spaces. Exploring hiking trails at state/national parks or forests only requires paying small parking fees.
For bigger adventures like kayaking, whitewater rafting, or ziplining, use discounted package deals from sites like Groupon. Many activity companies offer slashed prices early in the season to attract customers. Or split the costs with a group of friends to bring down the per-person pricing.
Hosting summer shindigs shouldn't mean going into debt over one fun night! Start by lowering the pressure and scaling back expectations a bit. No need to go overboard with fancy decor, catered food, or top-shelf bar setup. Instead, embrace the BYOB vibes and let guests bring their drink of choice. For food, grill up simple fare like burgers, kebabs, and veggie skewers. Use citronella candles, tiki torches, outdoor string lights, and speakers to create a festive party atmosphere without breaking the bank.
As for decorations, get thrifty by browsing garage sales and second-hand stores for budget finds like summery dishware, outdoor pillows, and funky vases for fresh flowers from the yard. Grocery stores are also great for stocking up on cheap reusable plates, cups, and ice buckets in bright summer colors.
If you're stuck making rent somewhere without a pool, backyard, or luxe outdoor amenities, don't fret! A few inexpensive finds from Amazon can create a private resort-like space right in your living area or balcony.
Start with a compact inflatable hot tub (complete with drink holders, of course) to recreate that cabana ambiance. Add in a misting fan to beat the heat while sipping cocktails. A hammock or hanging egg chair gives you a heavenly napping spot, while some peel-and-stick tropical wallpaper or string lights help set the vacation vibe. Beach towels and an insulated drink tub deliver all the poolside essentials minus the resort prices.
Can't afford to go all out at a luxury beach resort for a week? There are still many ways to make that summer getaway dream vacation more affordable and doable. For lodging, use travel browser extensions like HotelTonight to score last-minute hotel deals on unsold inventory. Vacation home rentals like Airbnb are typically way cheaper than hotels, especially for stays longer than four nights.
Cut restaurant costs by booking accommodations with kitchens so you can cook some dinners yourself. Then splurge on just one ultra-fancy date night out. Looking for low-key fun? Picnics and simple beach days are free entertainment if you bring your own food, games, speakers, and beverages.
Who needs those pricey country club membership fees when you can join way cooler collectives perfect for summer adventures? For a fraction of the cost, check out the ultra-hip memberships that savvy locals use to uncover under-the-radar hot spots.
For the athleisure lovers, sign up for an outdoorsy fitness membership that gives you access to unique workout classes and wellness experiences across the country. From beachfront boot camps to hiking yoga in stunning nature preserves, these community-led programs are where you'll find the coolest summer exercise scene.
Love being out on the water? Scoop up a flexible, local paddle membership that allows you to easily book single-day or multi-day rentals of canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and more at urban lakes, bays, rivers, and beaches. It's the best way to spontaneously get out on the water whenever the sun is shining.
Finally, if the FOMO from your friends' travels is hitting hard, why not brainstorm ways to bring in some extra income with a side gig this summer? Take advantage of the warm weather and increased daytime foot traffic by walking dogs through apps like Wag or Rover. Or become a brand ambassador for repping products at local events, bars, and beaches.
Another lucrative side hustle could be renting out a vacant parking spot or extra room on apps like SpotHero and Airbnb. Or put your interests to work by offering outdoor fitness classes like boot camps or yoga through sites like ClassPass. With a bit of hustle, you could easily bring in enough to fund your next sunny getaway.
From throwing budget backyard ragers to discovering affordable outdoor adventures, these are all the hacks you need for a truly memorable summer that doesn't require going broke.
