Savor Summer for Less: Creative Ways to Enjoy Summer Without Breaking the Bank
Summer is all about sunshine, relaxation, and making memories — but all those fun plans can quickly drain your wallet if you’re not careful. The good news? You don’t have to spend a lot to have an amazing summer.
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At America Saves, we love seeing how Savers get creative to enjoy the season and stay on track with their financial goals. Here are some simple, wallet-friendly ideas to inspire your best summer yet — without breaking the bank.
Explore Free Local Events
Many communities offer free concerts, outdoor movies, festivals, and farmers' markets during the summer. Check your city’s website or community center calendar — you might be surprised at how much is happening for zero cost!
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Plan a day at a local park, beach, or hiking trail. Pack a picnic with food you already have at home, bring a frisbee or a ball, and enjoy a screen-free day in nature.
Try a Budget-Friendly Staycation
Turn your home into a vacation spot for a weekend. Put away chores, set an “out of office” mindset, cook special meals, watch movies, play games, or camp in your backyard. It’s all the fun of a getaway — minus the hotel bill.
Host a Backyard Gathering
Skip expensive restaurants and plan a simple potluck BBQ or picnic with friends and neighbors. Everyone brings a dish, and you get great food and company without overspending.
Take Advantage of Your Library
Local libraries often host free summer programs, reading challenges, movie nights, or craft activities for kids and teens — plus free e-books, audiobooks, and movies you can enjoy all season long.
Look for Local Discount Days
Museums, zoos, and amusement parks often have free or reduced admission days — plan ahead and snag those deals to stretch your entertainment dollars further.
Enjoy Summer & Keep Saving
A fun summer doesn’t have to mean draining your savings account. With a little planning and creativity, you can make memories while staying on track with your financial goals.
Take the America Saves Pledge today and commit to putting your summer savings toward your emergency fund or next big goal. Your future self will thank you!
We want to hear from you!
How did you get creative and save money this summer? Whether you found a fun, low-cost activity, scored a great deal, or came up with a unique way to stretch your dollars, your story could inspire others in our community to save more, too.
Share your Summer Saver Story with us, and you may be featured in an upcoming America Saves blog or social post! BONUS – you can score a $50 gift card if we use your submission!
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creative ways to fund your savings
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