Why You Need a Summer Spending Plan

Summer planning season is upon us, with many already making plans for road trips, beach getaways, and festivals, or time with out-of-state relatives. But while the season brings opportunities for fun, it can also lead to financial stress if you’re not intentional. 

According to a recent survey, nearly 9 in 10 summer travelers (85%) plan to use a credit card to cover some travel expenses. However, 30% of 2024 summer travelers who used credit cards to pay for related expenses still haven’t paid them off. 

Airfare, gas, eating out, and entertainment can easily strain your budget if you’re not prepared. That’s why having a summer spending strategy is just as important as packing sunscreen.

Build a Realistic Summer Budget

Start by mapping out your income and expected expenses for the season. Create a specific summer budget that includes:

• Travel costs (gas, flights, lodging, attractions)
• Childcare or summer camps
• Entertainment and dining
• Extra utilities (like higher electric bills due to A/C)

As a general guideline, you can use the 50/30/20 rule to guide your summer planning:

• 50% on needs
• 30% on wants (for example, road trips and concerts)
• 20% on savings or debt payments

Prioritize High-Impact Activities

List all the things you’d like to do this summer — then narrow it down by priority and budget. By planning this way, you focus your funds on what matters most — whether it’s a family reunion, camping trip, or season pass to a theme park. Ask yourself:

• What’s most meaningful or memorable?
• What will give me the best experience per dollar?

Seek Out Free or Low-Cost Local Fun

You don’t need to spend big to have a great time. Many cities offer free summer programming, especially for kids and families. Subscribe to local event calendars or check the websites of nearby libraries, rec centers, or tourism bureaus. Look for free summer activities in your area like:

• Outdoor movie nights
• Community festivals
• Farmers markets
• Public beaches or lakes
• State park hikes
• Art walks and gallery nights

Travel Smart: Stay with Friends or Family

If your summer plans include traveling, one of the easiest ways to cut costs is to stay with people you know. This can save hundreds — if not thousands — on hotels or vacation rentals. Plus, you’ll often get:

• A local’s recommendations
• Free meals
• Built-in memories and meaningful connection

Use Coupons, Discounts, and Deals

Before you hit “purchase” on any activity or event ticket, look for coupons and promo codes. Planning a group activity? Group ticket rates are often cheaper per person. Here are a handful of popular discount sources:

• Groupon, LivingSocial, and Goldstar for local deals
• Rakuten, RetailMeNot, or Honey for coupon codes
• Direct business website discounts (when you subscribe to email or texts)
• Military, student, or senior discounts if applicable

Plan Ahead to Avoid Premium Prices

Spontaneity is fun — but expensive. Prices on flights, hotels, and even car rentals can surge at the last minute. Use tools like Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner to track the best times to buy. Planning ahead allows you to:

• Compare prices across websites
• Book during sales or off-peak dates
• Take advantage of loyalty programs or rewards
• Pack thoughtfully (avoiding overpriced airport snacks or hotel charges)

Cut Costs on Summer Meals

Summer is the season for budget-friendly food hacks. If you’re vacationing, choose lodging with a kitchen or kitchenette to save on dining out. Use a cooler with ice packs to keep meals fresh for road trips or beach days.

• Pack snacks and lunches for day trips
• Host potlucks instead of dining out
• Grill at home instead of ordering in
• Buy produce in season from local markets

Rethink the Summer Vacation: Try a Staycation

A staycation lets you relax and recharge without leaving your city—or racking up debt. They can offer a refreshing — and more affordable — alternative to traditional vacations. Here are a few ideas for a memorable local getaway:

• Book a night or two at a hotel across town
• Visit free museums or local attractions you’ve overlooked
• Explore the nearest state park by spending the day or booking a campsite

Use Cash to Keep Spending in Check

Using cash instead of credit can make you more mindful of how much you’re spending.

Once you set your budget, withdraw the amount you plan to spend by category (food, gas, activities) and use envelopes to separate it. This keeps you from accidentally going over budget — and avoids the dreaded credit card bill later.

Explore Free Tools and Guidance from GreenPath

Summer should be a time to relax, not worry about your finances. With the right planning and tools, you can enjoy all the fun the season has to offer — without overspending or building debt. Need help organizing your summer finances or setting a plan you can stick to? GreenPath offers:

• 1:1 financial counseling from NFCC-certified experts
• Shame-free support in managing debt 
• Free online courses, webinars, and worksheets to support your financial goals

This article is shared by UnitedOne Credit Union’s partner at GreenPath Financial Wellness, a trusted national non-profit. Need help sticking to your financial goals? GreenPath Financial Wellness provides personalized plans for lasting debt relief. Call GreenPath at 877-337-3399.

Questions? We're happy to help!

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