She Strengthens

Summer Expenses: Where to Splurge and Where to Save

As the temperatures rise, so do our expenses. From cranking up the air conditioning to indulging in refreshing summer treats, it’s easy to get caught up in the seasonal splurges. But with a little planning, you can enjoy the best of summer without breaking the bank.

The Essential Summer Splurges

For some, it’s all about staying cool. Alyson prioritizes her air conditioning, keeping her home at a comfortable temperature to avoid the hassle of constantly adjusting the thermostat. “I think it’s more expensive to cool a room from being hot than to maintain a comfortable temperature,” she explains.

Others focus on sun protection. Ellie invests in high-quality sunscreen, doing extensive research to find a brand that’s both effective and gentle on her skin. “I don’t skimp on it,” she says. “I slather it on and reapply throughout the day.”

Summer’s Sweet Treats

Megan can’t resist the allure of fresh produce, hitting up the farmer’s market every weekend to stock up on juicy fruits and veggies. “It’s a crime to not take advantage of strawberry season,” she jokes.

Cutting Back on Extras

But summer fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Amanda saves by opting for low-key activities like walks with her boyfriend and drinking store-bought beer on their building’s stoop. “I try to avoid spending on going out for dinner just to enjoy a nice evening,” she explains.

Personal Priorities

For Katherine, it’s all about embracing her love of the beach. She splurges on cute bikinis, taking full advantage of her Florida location. “It seems frivolous, but it makes me happy,” she says.

Brie and her roommates have mastered the art of at-home cocktail-making, saving money by DIY-ing their nights out. “It was an upfront cost to stock our bar, but it’s so much cheaper than going out all the time,” she notes.

Small but Significant Splurges

Lexi’s investment in a high-quality insulated water bottle has made a big difference in her daily life as a summer camp counselor. “It keeps my water ice-cold all day, and it’s so much easier than buying cheap plastic bottles,” she says.

Cayleigh is willing to splurge on a beach pass in her hometown, knowing it’ll encourage her to visit the beach more often. “It’s my favorite place, and if I spend that money once, going to the beach is free the rest of the summer,” she explains.

By prioritizing what matters most to you, you can enjoy the best of summer without breaking the bank. So go ahead, splurge on that daily A/C or indulge in a fruity cocktail – just be sure to balance it out with some smart saving strategies.