Summer months bring warm weather and fun but they also can end up being the most expensive months out of the year for people. With extra spending going to summer activities, vacations, daycare, higher electricity bills and more, you’ll be spending more money than you usually do. So, this summer follow our money saving tips, so you save instead of spend!

Riding your bike more/only using one car

This really depends on your kind of lifestyle, obviously if this may not be possible for some people, but you're only a couple blocks from work, ride your bike instead. Or if there always seems to be a vehicle sitting in the driveway not being used as much, not to mention it’s better for the environment and you get to save on gas money. Another tip is to wait until there’s a bunch of running around you to need to do, instead of driving around for just one thing you need.

Plant a garden

What saves you more money than growing your own fruits and vegetables? You’ll have to spend a little at the start for seeds and such, but even if you grow basic things like lettuce, tomatoes, herbs, etc. you’ll be spending less on your grocery budget. 

Get rid of your gym membership 

There are a lot of free ways to workout during the summer, especially if you’re barely using it, consider cancelling it and save some money. Consider instead; biking, hiking, swimming, jogging, or any of the numerous at home workouts on youtube. For some people it is worth having a gym membership, but most people are not getting their money's worth.

Learn how to travel on a budget

Start by researching, find out all you need to know about your trip. Eat like a local, buy groceries instead of eating out, try to stay at an Airbnb for more options on accommodations.  Try to find free camping sites, and bring everything you’re going to need with you. 

Take a Staycation

Instead of going somewhere far, go around and visit places where you live where you normally wouldn't. Make a list of popular tourist locations in your area, places you’ve always wanted to visit or just look online for ideas.

Turn your Air Conditioner up a few degrees 

You may be able to save a little on your utility bill, especially when no one is going to be home, or when everyone is asleep, this could save you 10% or more on your next electric bill.

You should also block the sun out by closing your curtains during hot days, this’ll help keep out a lot of the heat. Also, cooking food will heat your house up as well, you could opt for

Invest in a programmable thermostat

There’s plenty of programmable thermostats for less than $50, and if you haven’t bought one yet, a programmable thermostat is something you may want to invest in. With a programmable thermostat, you can set exact temperatures for different times of the day. It automatically changes on a set schedule, meaning you won’t have to think about it. For example, your AC can automatically turn up when you leave for work so that you don’t waste electricity or money cooling a house that no one is in. You can also program it for while you are sleeping, for the weekend, when you are on vacation, and so on.

Stop paying for cable TV

The average monthly cable bill is around $120 or higher. One easy way to save money save is to cut your cable and head outside for less expensive entertainment. There are many streaming services that are great options to help you save money while still watching your favorite shows and movies. 

Here are some services and what they charge per month:

• Netflix. $7.99 to $13.99

• Hulu. $7.99 to $39.99

• Sling TV.  $20 to $40

• Amazon Prime Video.  $8.99 (requires an Amazon Prime subscription, which is $119 per year)

• HBO Now.  $14.99

Start meal planning.

Meal planning helps you eat healthier, save some money and have less food waste.The average person wastes 40% of their food! Have trouble eating at home, then try the $5 Meal Plan. It’s only $5 a month, and you get meal plans emailed directly to you along with the exact shopping list you need in order to create the meals. This allows you to save time because you won’t have to meal plan anymore, and it will save you money as well! 

Buy second hand items.

Think garage sale and flea markets if you are looking for summer money saving tips while also shopping for things you need. This can also be a fun way to time while allowing you to save money in the summer on the things you need or want to buy. Since things are so cheap, it may be worth it for you. 

Find free fun.

Most have lots of fun activities during the summer months. Check out Melfort’s town calendar and website to see what free attractions and events are offered. Even places like museums often have free days. Also, if you live near a national park, you may want to find out when their free entry days are.