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(From the Financial Literacy Blog) – Summer is officially upon us here in Maine! With another cold, snowy winter (and hopefully most of the rain!) behind us, it’s tempting to go all-in to enjoy every moment of the seemingly short summer we get here in Maine. With the National Weather Service’s forecast for high temperatures, Mainers will want to be cognizant of increased utility expenses as they fight the heat to make their homes more comfortable. Getting out of the house to enjoy the weather while it’s here is a great way to lower home utility bills due to less usage, but the cost of activities can add up. To maximize both your summer and your budget, consider adding inexpensive and/or free outings and gatherings to your schedule.
- While going to see the newest movies and grabbing dinner are great options for getting together with loved ones during colder months when the weather can be less than pleasant, focus on getting outside! Go for a picnic; try a new hiking trail; get out on the water to kayak, boat, fish, and/or swim; visit lighthouses; have an adventure in the state and national parks; walk on the beach; watch the sunrise or sunset; attend a free outdoor concert or other community-hosted events, like movies in the park; ride your bike; host a bonfire; attend one of Maine’s many summer festivals—the options are endless! Maine is fortunate to have an array of both mountains and beaches to explore.
- If you do plan to go out to eat, plan your restaurant visits around daily deals like happy hour, when drinks (and sometimes appetizers) are discounted.
- Take a community class. Typically offered for a reasonable fee, many communities provide seasonal classes for all ages to learn new skills, often ranging from athletics to crafts. Your town hall can provide information specific to your area.
- Looking for your next five star read? Pick a new book at the library! Library memberships are extremely low in cost, providing a wealth of information and new reads at your fingertips. Many libraries also put on free events for members.
- Host a game night! Whether you prefer lawn games or board games, all can be enjoyed at low or no cost. Invite your friends and family over for quality time full of laughter and joy.
- Visit your nearby farmer’s market to acquire local produce and goods. Some of the best finds come from farmer’s markets, which are typically filled with handcrafted items and delicious homemade or homegrown foods. Mix up your grocery errands by shopping and supporting locally.
- Declutter and throw a yard or garage sale to make some money on things you no longer use or need, creating some additional savings or room in your budget.
- If you are hosting a large group of people, invite them over for a potluck. You can make it extra fun by assigning a theme to the gathering, where everyone has to bring a dish that fits the theme. For example, if you are having a charcuterie board party, every guest brings a different type of charcuterie board (i.e. an ice cream sundae board, a hamburger slider board, a baked potato board, a chip and dip board, etc.) loaded with toppings/add-ons. It’s a fun way of encouraging everyone to think outside of the box while ensuring the cost of feeding everyone does not fall on one person. Get creative with it!
Summer is a time many look forward to, especially amidst snowstorms and seemingly endless rain. It’s important to enjoy your summer without putting financial strain on yourself, helping you reach long-term goals for your financial well-being. Following some of the tips above can help you stay on track.