Changes To Consider For Your Summer Budget – Part 1
We are on the cusp of May and that means we are not too far from summertime in Michigan! Now is the time to consider makings some changes to your summer budget. Maybe it feels early, but it is a good time to think about and plan out the lifestyle changes that occur. When a lifestyle change occurs, a budgeting change occurs too. For some people. the summer saves money, in my family it costs more money. It all depends on your situation! Today we will look at some “big picture” items, and tomorrow we will go over some smaller details.
Childcare & Assistance – Summer Budgeting Changes
Obviously, this only applies to you if you have children that are school aged. Since that is so many of us, it is important to point out. Some parents are able to stay home or have a supportive family. This may include aunts and uncles or grandparents that are available to help out. For the rest of us with kids who work, we may need to invest and plan for summer camps or programs, a babysitter or nanny or maybe even work less. Whatever this change is may very well be the biggest change in your budget.
Traveling – Summer Budgeting Changes
Even if you don’t travel, you may do more “staycations” and many of us Michiganders go “up north” or “to the lake” or a family cottage. These excursions don’t have to be expensive, but they can still add up from time to time. Than there are those of us who plan more traditional vacations that take place in the summer. Any of these wonderful things could change your summer budget.
Cooking & Eating Habits – Summer Budgeting Changes
Summer means you may go from eating 1-2 times per day at home to all of the sudden eating 3! Summer can blow your grocery budget out of the water if you don’t plan for it. More snacks, more time spent outdoors etc. In our family we tend to make lighter meals…not as many sides and not as much meat. That can really save you. On the other hand, you may cookout more or have more events or picnics. Just make sure to think through your eating habits when you are planning out your funds!
