Unexpected summer expenses

Summer often brings visions of sunshine, vacations, and time to unwind. However, it can also come with a wave of unexpected costs — ones that aren’t always factored into the family budget. To help you prepare, here’s a look at a few common summer expenses that can add up quickly, along with some simple planning ideas to stay ahead.

Summer camps

As the school year winds down, many families enroll their children in summer camps. It’s a fun and often necessary solution for working parents. These camps can be costly, averaging about $250 per week per child, depending on the type and location. If you have more than one child, these fees can increase significantly. Consider reviewing how much you spent this year and setting aside a small amount each month to help cover next summer’s costs.

Lawn care and maintenance

Warmer weather means more time outdoors, and more work to keep lawns, gardens, and outdoor areas in good shape. Seasonal costs might include watering the lawn and plants, planting flowers, or using sprinkler systems. You may also see higher water bills from filling pools or setting up outdoor activities for kids. Don’t forget your air conditioning. Maintenance, repairs, and increased usage can all affect your monthly utility bill.

Pest control

Insects and pests become more active during the summer months. If you plan to enjoy your patio or deck, you might need pest control services to manage mosquitoes, spiders, or other unwanted guests. While this might not be an annual cost, it’s one that can sneak up if not included in your seasonal budget.

Home maintenance

Summer is a popular time to tackle home projects, from fixing fences to repainting outdoor trim. These tasks can add up quickly in both time and cost. If you’re planning any updates, it helps to prioritize and budget for the most urgent repairs.

Vacations

Whether it’s a road trip, a family getaway, or a camping weekend, summer travel can be a meaningful way to recharge. Planning ahead and setting aside a separate savings account for vacations can help avoid the stress of credit card debt. Even small, local adventures benefit from a bit of financial foresight.

Planning ahead brings peace of mind.

Summer should be a time to recharge — not worry about surprise expenses. Building a seasonal budget or setting up a modest emergency fund can go a long way in helping you stay on track and enjoy more of what summer has to offer.

To help you get started, download the MNP Budget Tracker Spreadsheet. It’s a simple, easy-to-use tool designed to help you plan for expenses, track spending, and stay organized. That way, you can enjoy the sunshine with fewer financial surprises.