Those hot nights, the lazy afternoons in the garden… sunbathing by the beach, cold drink in one hand and a book in the other… this all probably feels like a distant memory after the winter we’ve had. But summer isn’t far away now and fingers crossed it’ll be a warm one!
Summer is a fantastic time of year but it can be very expensive too and for many families and young couples it can be a difficult time of year, but help is at hand! Here is your guide to having a budget friendly summer this year:
The Proof is in the Planning:
Preparing your budget is the key to a successful summer! If you’re a saving savvy family you’ve probably got a pretty good idea of where your money goes each month and how much disposable income you have.
When it comes to the summer you need to up your game a little and start saving now. Any spare cash you have look after it and put it towards your summer fund, this is particularly important if you’re looking to go away this year.
Your Summer Wardrobe:
We all know that feeling – the sun is beginning to peek out through the clouds again and you have that horrible need to go shopping and stock up on clothes for the summer! Try to avoid this temptation and look for cheaper ways to update your summer wardrobe.
Organise a wardrobe swap with your friends – clear out any summer clothes you no longer want, get your friends to do the same and then get together and swap your clothes. You could bag yourself a whole new wardrobe and it won’t cost you a penny.
Entertaining Friends and Family:
The sun is shining and your barbeque has been sitting there unused for far too long! Summer is the time to spend lazy weekends with loved ones, friends, food and Pimms! But the one thing that stops you inviting a coach load of people into your garden each weekend is the cost of keeping them fed and watered!
Chances are your friends and family are in the same situation so invite them round but simply ask them to bring their own food and drink and you’ll supply the entertainment!
Vacation Vs Staycation:
Times are tough and many of us can’t afford to splash out on a luxury holiday in an exotic location. But providing the British weather does us proud there are still plenty of places to visit in the British Isles! Plan a few weekend trips to the seaside or a short city break. Hotels don’t want to see an empty room go to waste so hold off on booking it to the last minute and see how much money you can save.
You could even opt for a staycation – book a week off work, shut off your computers, work phones and laptops and simply relax at home. Treat the family to a few days out and just enjoy the weather, forget those little jobs that need doing around the home and simply make the most of spending a week with your loved ones.
Whatever the summer has in store for you make sure you make the most of the sun, plan wisely and you’re sure to have the summer you deserve.
This post was written by Meredith Watts, she has recently moved house and has planned her frugal summer. Meredith is from Aspire Money, the expert team who are always on hand to help relieve your financial burdens and assist you in having the best Summer 2013 can offer you.
Please remember to read all risk statements and consider if the Representative APR is appropriate for your needs before entering into any loan arrangement or you can obtain the OFT booklet “Think before you borrow” by following this link
Do you have any other tips for a budget friendly summer?
I really want to take a staycation, but I need more vacation time before I can justify staying home. I need to negotiate for that! 🙂