For many families, the warmer months come with a spike in expenses. From pricey holidays and days out to keeping the kids entertained, the costs can skyrocket. Not to worry! In this post we’ll be giving you 10 clever tips to help you enjoy your summer with less financial stress.
Instead of going abroad and blowing your whole budget, why not explore the UK and save some money this summer? A staycation is a great way to save on all of the hassle and costs that come with flights, accommodation etc. when heading to a foreign country. Britain is full of fantastic destinations from the rural countryside to historic cities steeped in culture.
You can start by researching free local attractions and places with discounted entry deals. Places like museums, galleries and heritage sites offer reduced rates and even free admission on certain days and events. You could also consider camping in the countryside or opting for an affordable rental property instead of an expensive hotel.
Another way to save money on your staycation is to cook at home. Not only will it save you money by avoiding travel and restaurant costs but it also allows you to explore local markets and indulge in fresh seasonal produce.
Although this point is a no-brainer, it’s often overlooked amidst the excitement of making summer plans. Take some time before the season hits to calculate your anticipated costs such as travel, accommodation, food, childcare, activities etc. Once you’ve calculated all of the potential expenses, set a realistic budget to stick to over the break.
Apps like Monzo and Money Dashboard can be game changers when it comes to tracking spending and budgeting. By making use of these tools you can do things like categorise your expenditures, helping you stay on top of where your money’s going.
It’s also crucial to avoid impulse purchases that could bust your budget. Sure, that inflatable unicorn pool float looks tempting, but do you really need it? Look for free or low-cost alternatives to pricey activities and indulgences.
Many businesses offer discounted rates and special promotions during summer holidays. If you have children, then you might be in luck. Keep your eyes peeled for deals on restaurants and days out that’ll make your kids (and your bank account) happy!
Start by hunting for 2-for-1 or kids-eat-free offers at local eateries. You’d be surprised how many places offer these incentives to lure in families during peak season. Remember to check for reduced entry prices at museums, theme parks, and other attractions geared towards children.
There are discount schemes available such as Kids Pass, which provides discounted free entry to hundreds of venues across the UK for a small fee.
income streams like earnings from employment, rental income, interest, dividends etc. Recording your full gross income accurately is crucial for tax purposes.
Sometimes the best way to save money is to make an effort to… not spend it. Designate a certain day every week over summer or even an entire week to avoid all temptation of frivolous purchases and appreciate the simple (and free) joys in life.
On your spending detox, have a cozy home movie night with snacks you already have in the cupboard. Dust off those classic board games or puzzles for some good old-fashioned family fun. Or, pack a picnic and head to your local park or hiking trail for a refreshing outdoor adventure.
If the kids are getting restless, keep them entertained with crafts, games, or books borrowed from the library. You’d be amazed at how much fun you can have without spending a penny.
To make your spending detox even more effective, avoid tempting situations like shopping malls or browsing online stores. Out of sight, out of mind!
It’s nice to go on summer road trips when the weather is nice, but with fuel costs soaring, driving can quickly become a budget-buster. Instead, maximise the use of cost-effective public transport option to save some serious cash.
If you’re planning any longer journeys, invest in a rail card like the 16-25 Railcard or the Family & Friends Railcard. These passes can save you up to 1/3 on train fares, making it much easier on your wallet to explore the UK.
For more local adventures, check out bus saver tickets and plan park-and-ride journeys to avoid pricey city centre parking fees. Whenever possible, take advantage of the great British summer weather by walking or cycling to your destination – it’s free, eco-friendly, and great exercise!
Summer is the perfect chance to take advantage of the fresh, inexpensive produce at your local grocer’s and farm shops. You can not only save money but enjoy the vibrant flavours and nutritional benefits of fruits and veggies at their peak by buying what’s in season.
Keep an eye out for deals on summer staples like juicy berries, crisp salad greens, and mouth-watering tomatoes. Many supermarkets will offer discounts on seasonal items, so stock up and get creative with your meal planning.
For an even better deal (and a fun family outing), check for pick-your-own farms in your area. Not only will you score discounted rates on fresh produce, but you’ll also create precious memories with your loved ones.
One of the most rewarding and cost-effective ways to keep the family entertained this summer is to tap into everyone’s creative side with some fun DIY projects. This is a good way to not only keep the boredom at bay, but it could also foster valuable skills and bonding time with the family.
If you happen to have any recycling saved up like empty bottles, cardboard boxes, and toilet roll tubes, you can transform these into toys and decorations with some craft supplies and imagination!
The possibilities are endless, along with some paint and glue you can make just about anything decorative.
It can be a real challenge to keep the children entertained all summer – and an expensive one at that. Luckily you don’t need to spend a fortune on constant activities and outings, with a bit of creativity you can keep the kids happy without blowing your budget.
Make use of the garden and set up a tent and a treasure hunt for some summer fun. Kids love the thrill of adventure and doing things like this cost next to nothing so it’s a win for both parties. Let the kids camp in the tent overnight for more fun and entertainment.
For rainy days or scorching afternoons, have themed movie/game days complete with simple snacks like homemade popcorn or frozen fruit pops. You could even turn it into a fun competition with prizes for the winners.
And don’t forget about good old-fashioned craft projects! Hit up the pound shop for inexpensive supplies like crayons, paints, and construction paper, and let the kids get creative. Not only will this keep them occupied, but it’ll also foster their artistic talents.
For savvy shoppers, summer is prime time for scoring incredible bargains at local boot sales, car boot sales, and markets across the UK. These lively events are treasure troves for everything from gently-used clothing and toys to household goods and more – all at deeply discounted prices.
Start by checking community calendars and local Facebook groups to find upcoming sales in your area. Getting there early is key to nabbing the best deals before the crowds arrive.
Prepping before a car boot sale is a great way to make sure you get the most out of it. Make a list of any of the essentials or items in particular you are looking for. Some good summer items to look out for are outdoor toys, sporting goods, gardening supplies, and warm-weather apparel.
Part of the fun is embracing spontaneity and keeping an open mind! You never know when you’ll stumble upon an unexpected gem, like that vintage picture frame or quirky piece of decor that’ll breathe new life into your living space.
As you scope out the offerings, don’t be afraid to barter politely with vendors. Many are happy to knock a few pounds off the price, especially towards the end of the day when they’re eager to get rid of remaining items.
There’s nothing quite like a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. But instead of constantly buying single-use plastic bottles, why not join the help the environment and use a reffilable?
Invest in a good-quality reusable water bottle and make it your summer sidekick. Not only will you save a ton of money by refilling it for free, but you’ll also be doing your part to reduce plastic waste.
Many towns and cities across the UK now have designated Refill Stations where you can top up your bottle at no cost. Apps like RefillMyBottle can help you locate these handy stations, so you’ll never be caught high and dry.
Or, for a fun twist, make your own infused water at home! Simply add fresh fruits, herbs, or veggies like cucumber, lemon, or strawberries to your water for a delicious and healthy beverage.
