Ready for summer? These tips can help you stay in fine financial shape

I love the summer season. It is a time filled with possibilities: barbecues, road trips, spending time outdoors, campfires — sm’ores!

For many, the summer brings fun but also a surge in spending. While hopping from activity to activity, it is easy to lose sight of your financial goals.

Consider these tips to enjoy the summer without pushing aside your spending plan.

Review your summer spending plan

When was the last time you looked at your spending plan? Now is the time to review your plan, or maybe for some, create one for the first time.

Start by examining your current spending habits. Some expenses may need more, or less, attention as summer approaches. For example, if you are going to be traveling more for sporting events, consider shifting funds from other categories to add to the gas or eating out buckets.

Consider using expense tracking apps that can help you monitor your monthly expenses. Once you know the numbers, you can start putting together a plan that works for you.

Plan for the big expenses

What are your big-ticket items for the summer? Activities like vacations, weddings or concerts can add to the monthly expense total and can sneak up on you if you are not prepared.

Planning ahead is essential.

Begin by listing out the big-ticket items. Then, assign projected dollar amounts or budgets to each item. Prioritize what is most important and begin saving now, even if it is a small amount each week.

Low-cost alternatives

Building long-lasting memories does not have to break the bank. Low-cost activities can be a great alternative when considering your spending plan and other financial goals.

Start by researching free events such as concerts, museum free-admission days, or community events for families or a date night.

Getting creative can lead to a summer filled with fun.

Avoid the pitfalls

When in the busy summer months, it can be easy to get off track. Recognizing these pitfalls can help you prepare and make smarter financial decisions.

▪ Overspending on last-minute activities: Build in a category in your spending plan for these items.

▪ Forgetting other important expenses: Do not let being busy get in the way of other needed responsibilities such as bills or other financial goals. Set reminders and tasks to cross these off.

▪ Ignoring back to school: Incorporate back-to-school expenses into your pre-summer spending plan. This should help avoid the last-minute rush and surprises.

Monitor your plan and adjust when needed

As your feet are sitting in the sand, whether you are on the beach or at the neighborhood playground, take the time to review your plan. Adjusting the plan is OK and is expected.

Continue to review your priorities to determine what is most important. Tracking your plan weekly can be helpful to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

As you enter summer “vacation,” do not let your spending plan take a vacation as well. Now is the time to begin planning for the season of possibilities.

Nolan Keim is a Certified Financial Planner professional and an active member of the Financial Planning Association of Greater Kansas City. He serves as a senior wealth advisor for Mariner in Overland Park.

This story was originally published May 7, 2025 at 5:00 AM.