These Budgeting Hacks Will Help You Save a Little Extra Cash For Summer Fun

As you start making summer plans, it's all too easy to decide you also need to buy a bunch of supplies. But before you pay full price for a brand-new patio set or camping tent, look for a more budget-friendly option on the secondhand market. You can find great deals at local thrift stores and garage sales, as well as on Facebook Marketplace and in neighborhood groups. If you're lucky, you might even be able to find someone giving what you need away for free in your local Buy Nothing Project group — check social media to see if there's one in your area.

Saving up for spendy summer outings doesn't mean you have to stay home the rest of the time. Fill up your calendar with free or cheap activities like picnics in the park, local hikes, or beach days. If you'd rather escape the heat, check the schedule at local museums — many offer free or discounted admission on certain days.

If you have your recurring bills on autopay, you might not realize how much you're actually spending every month. Take a closer look at your current phone bill and see if you can get the same coverage for less elsewhere. At Straight Talk Wireless, an unlimited talk, text, and data plan (first 25GB at high speeds, then at 2G) with no contract costs only $45 per month.

After you've slashed any extra expenses, create a separate category in your budget just for summer fun. Set aside a certain amount of money you can spend on fun things each week, then use it however you like. One week, it might go toward one amazing restaurant meal with friends; another week, it might fund an entire weekend of beach snacks.

Everyone wants to go on vacation during the summer, so it's no surprise that flights, rental houses, train tickets, and hotel rooms tend to cost more this time of year. If you are planning to get away this summer, check for travel deals before booking your trip to make sure you're getting the best price. Set price alerts on Google Flights so you can jump on any discounted fares that pop up. If you have credit-card points or airline miles, consider using them to book your flights or hotels to reduce your out-of-pocket cost. That beach vacation will feel a lot more relaxing if you know you got a sweet deal.