Summer is just about here! Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re always excited when summer rolls around. Though the joke is that summer weather doesn’t really start until July 5th.
This weekend we’ll have our check-in where we agree on our June budget, and I’ve got a few summer-specific events and situations that we will need to make sure are included. Here’s a short list of things you need to remember in your own budget plans.
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Don't forget these things in your June budget
- Father's Day
Don’t forget the dads in your life! Whether you’ve got an activity planned or you’re buying a gift, make sure you include the necessary funds.
- Yard care
This could be an ongoing expense, depending on where you live. Factor in any necessary repairs to yard tools, higher water bills for watering, and any new materials you might need to get it into shape for the summer. Need new bark or some rock for edging? Make a note of it.
- A/C expenses
This expense varies widely across the country, so it might be more or less of an issue for you. We have extended family in the desert southwest, and I know their air conditioning needs really impact their electric bills as we move into summer. Do you need any filters or service?
- Vacations, Events & Trips
Are you going anywhere this summer? Road trips mean higher than normal fuel costs, and the cost of plane tickets can vary widely, even on the same routes and carriers. Think about lodging costs and food along the way, too. A family vacation doesn’t have to mean hotels – do you need to reserve and pay for a campsite at a state or national park? How much will your site be for the length of time you’ll be there?
- Staycations
Our current debt repayment plans mean we'll be staying closer to home and avoiding big trips. I’ve factored our camping plans into the “vacations” category. What can you do for a "staycation?" Staying home doesn’t have to mean watching TV or just playing in the back yard. Budget for museum visits, nearby amusement parks and county fairs, and trips to the local pool. There are lots of fun things to do without leaving your hometown!
- Food
Yes, I realize you need food every month. But when school’s out for the summer, you won’t have school lunches in place to feed your kids. Are you ready to have hungry kids around the house all day? I don’t know about yours, but mine will graze all day long if I let them. Make sure you have lots of extra snacks on hand, and maybe a few summery treats, too. (Ice cream sandwiches and popsicles, anyone?)
- Summer fun supplies
Have your kids outgrown their swimsuits from last year, or are they worn out? Do you need a few new fun things, like a new sprinkler? New floats for the pool or lake? I think I might need this Millenium Falcon float… though I’d have to fight my husband for it.
- Family barbecues
If you’re hosting any family get-togethers or barbecues, you’ll need to make sure you have the food, drinks, plates, etc. to make sure everyone gets fed. Remember that you don’t need to provide the food for everyone – people are more than happy to bring a dish to share, so you can always make it a potluck! Don’t forget the cooler or tub for ice cold drinks!
- Graduations
Have you gotten any graduation announcements from friends or family? Be sure to add those grad gifts to your budget.
- End of year teacher gifts
Don’t forget those teachers who have put
up with dutifully taught all of our kids, on good days and bad. Gift cards
are great gifts, but so are gift baskets and bags, or something homemade that
you or your kids put together. Get creative and show your appreciation, just
make sure it’s accounted for in this month’s money plan.
Have a great June, and plan for success!