Canadian Finance Blog

Summer Savings: When Fine Weather Gets you in a Spending Mood

Posted: 12 May 2011 02:00 AM PDT

I don’t know about you, but when the weather begins to turn, even just a little bit, and the days are longer and brighter, my entire being shifts from hibernation mode into let’s-go-out-and-enjoy-life-mode. Especially for the Canucks among us, who have endured the arduous winter and have come out alive to tell about it, the emergence of mild weather can be quite mood booster. And with a boosted mood, I personally enjoy spending, perhaps more than I should. If you’re the same way, here are a few tips to curb the inevitable summer expenses.

1. Vacation time is upon us. Plan, plan, plan.

So if you plan on taking a vacation, there is no better time than now to start cementing all your trip plans. As an avid traveller, I’ve messed up financially multiple times, and I can say without hesitation that the worst mistake you can make in terms of money and vacation is not planning properly several months in advance. Determine your budget first, then book tickets and hotels accordingly. Stringently budget how much you can afford to spend on extras.

2. Summer is for relaxing. Don’t make it more stressful than it has to be.

Summer vacation with the kids at home for several months can sometimes turn into a longer version of Christmas what’s supposed to be a fun time with family turns into a huge headache. While Christmas is only a week or so at most, summer is many months, so be sure to include simple, regular methods of relaxation that help to curb those spending demons. For example, instead of enrolling your kids in tons of extra-curricular activities, just pick one that she truly enjoys. Instead hunting out summer sales at stores, save yourself all the money and go for a walk in the park. Write up a reading list and check the books out from the library. Remember relaxation can and often is completely free!

3. Buy summer clothing and accessories off season.

Unless you are a huge fan of the latest fashions, summer clothing can be bought way in advance for half the price or less. This is true of clothing in general. When the summer is drawing to a close and winter is upon us, I always get my summer stuff, including often exorbitantly priced swimwear, when it’s dirt cheap. Then I save it for next summer. This tip might be a little late for some of you, but it’s something to think about next time.

4. Instead of going out with friends and family, think of ways to have fun at home.

Whenever the weather improves, it’s amazing how many more people I see out and about having a great time at restaurants, drinking establishments, etc. However, this can start to put a drain on your finances if you don’t watch out. Instead of going out, I assuage my increased desire to have fun with friends and family by hosting BYOB potlucks at home. This is a great way to spend a Friday night and you don’t force anyone to spend too much, and you will be able to enjoy the company of your nearest and dearest while simultaneously saving.

These are just a few ways that you can nip summer spending habits in the bud before things get out of control. The most important thing to remember is to simply be aware of the times that you tend to spend more money and find ways to stop yourself.

What are some ways you plan on saving for the summer?

Author Bio: This guest contribution was submitted by Katheryn Rivas, who regularly writes for online universities. She especially loves hearing back from her readers. Questions or comments can be sent to: katherynrivas87@gmail.com.

Summer Savings: When Fine Weather Gets you in a Spending Mood originally appeared on Canadian Finance Blog on May 12, 2011.