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Summer is here and rising temperatures can unfortunately also bring a steep incline in utility bills. Though you can counteract the increase and conserve energy by going outside, this will prove to be even harder with many public pools, parks and typical summer getaway destinations closed.
So what can you do to save more money during the summer?
Forgoing your annual summer vacation isn’t all bad news. By cutting back on spending and implementing strategies to conserve energy, you will be able to easily stash away savings this summer. Instead of draining your bank account to keep the house a cool 70 degrees, embrace the warmth and try out some of our tips to accrue summer savings.
4 Easy Strategies to Help You Save Money this Summer
1. Start with a plan
Though saving money is a solid goal, sometimes it is too vague to inspire any real commitment. You need to know what you are saving for, which means starting off this summer with a plan that you will stick to and creating specific goals to serve as your incentive for summer savings.
The best way to get started is to build a budget. What are your expenses during the summer? What expenses can you expect to increase? Where can you cut costs? A budget gives you a visual representation of your spending habits, and makes it easy to adjust them when needed. There are various budgeting apps that do the work for you. You can link your bank account, set goals and track spending as well.
Alongside your budget you should reserve a section for your financial goals. When you do save money this summer, where do you want it to go? You can plan to set aside funds for holiday spending, a future trip or even an emergency fund. Utilizing these tools and starting with a clear cut path to savings will keep you motivated.
2. Don’t run your A/C all day
Of course, air conditioning needs differ depending on what part of the country you live in, but if you can bear the warmer temperatures (but not intense heat of course) you’ll end up saving a lot more money by the time the summer is over.
The key is to use your A/C when it’s necessary, and for the times in between, cool down your home in other ways like:
- Use ceiling or portable fans
- Open the windows at night when the temperature drops
- Keep your blinds closed
- Raise the default temperature on your thermostat
- Create shade and block direct sunlight with canopies and umbrellas
Making these simple changes will allow you to save more money without sacrificing your comfort.
3. Do as much as you can outside
You’ll be a lot less likely to run the A/C if you’re spending more time outside. Take part in activities outside of your home that are naturally free. You can still spend time outside while social distancing. Go for a walk, enjoy lunch in the park or find a new hiking trail. Or, keep the heat out of your house by cooking outside and hosting an impromptu family picnic.
You can also both conserve energy and save money by drying your clothes outside. If you have space available, hang your clothes up and let the sun bake them dry. If this is not an option, use a low heat setting on your dryer, or dry them inside by a window.
4. Shop the Savings
If you’re not shopping the sales this season, you’re missing out on some incredible summer savings.
July and August bring deals on patio furniture, clothing, outdoor supplies and electronics. If you missed the 4th of July sales, don’t fret. Many retailers extend their sales to make way for new inventory arriving in the fall, which means discounted prices for you.
In addition to fulfilling your summer shopping needs, try going against your normal impulse and shopping for items that are not in season. During the summer, you will be able to find apparel like jackets, pants and boots at a lower price because they are not in high demand. You should also check to see if there is a Stein Mart coupon code available when shopping for apparel. You can also save money by getting a jump start on back to school supplies before everyone else.
Saving Money Isn’t Just for Summer
Saving money during the summer doesn’t mean that you have to completely change your lifestyle. It’s all about being aware of the changes in your spending habits during the season, and making adjustments where you can.
You can apply these same strategies during any time of the year to save more money. If you get used to building and sticking with a budget, conserving energy and shopping for the best deals, you will pocket more money without even trying.
In these times where strolling through the stores isn’t exactly the safest way to shop, you can also utilize online markets like RebateKey, to shop directly from home. Buy electronics, home goods, clothing and toys all at a discounted price. You can even access coupons and promo codes for other popular brands. From Mattress Firm coupons to walgreens rebates… we can help you save cash in all sorts of ways! Start your summer savings off right and sign up today!
