7 Ways to Save During a Summer of Inflation
Summertime is right around the corner and it’s coming in hot! Unfortunately, as the temps are rising – so is inflation. So how do we plan vacations, weekend getaways, and fun activities for the kids without blowing our budget?
Lisa Thompson, the Savings Expert for Coupons.com, shares her tips below on how to simplify and save on summer essentials!
1. Getting groceries? Doing a Target run? Use cashback offers. This is hands down, the best way to save money when you’re shopping this summer. Cashback apps like the Coupons.com app, offer savings on summer essentials like ice cream, energy drinks, sunscreen, sodas, and snacks, with regular offers of $1 to even $4 cash back on many items. That’s cash back in your pocket for things you would be stocking up on anyway as you plan backyard barbecues, pool trips, and other summer outings.
Pro tip: Link your store loyalty card or account (think Target, Walmart, etc.) just once to your Coupons.com app, and you can skip the need to even submit a receipt for redeeming your offers. Just be sure to activate your offers in the app before you shop.
2. Be a tourist in your own city. Now that the world is opening back up again – and with “revenge travel” trending many people will be making up for those missed vacations. But with airfare and gas prices at an all-time high, staying somewhat local is sure to offset your expenses. Look for areas you haven’t yet explored, and free activities like art fairs or concerts. A roller rink you’ve never visited. A new waterpark that just opened. Look at your city with fresh eyes and seek out the fun without spending a fortune.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead by stocking up on snack items using cashback offers at the grocery store to avoid paying premium prices at convenience stores, concession stands, and amusement parks.
3. Relax your meal-planning and lean into the summer theme. Save money by simplifying your meal planning, adding cashback offers to your shopping trips, and looking for sales on seasonal items. Throw burgers, hot dogs, veggies, and even fruit (watermelon!) on the grill a few nights each week, and take a break from overheating your kitchen. Pack dinner up in a picnic basket and head to the beach, a park…or even your own backyard! My favorite quick meal is slow cooker pulled pork. Talk about super simple and doesn’t heat up your kitchen.
4. Hit up Farmer’s Markets. There are so many wins with this: You’re supporting local businesses. You’re buying what’s in season, which is typically cheaper. You’re getting outside (how many of us have become homebodies since 2020?).
5. Plan to buy any big purchases on a tax-free weekend. Check to see if your state (or one near you) offers a tax-free weekend and wait to make any large purchases (a computer, for example) during that time.
6. Declutter your home with a digital garage sale. Apps like Facebook Marketplace, VarageSale and OfferUp make it easier than ever to get cash for items you no longer need. You’re likely to find more buyers online which speeds up the process of better organizing your own space – to help your home feel brand new!
With a little creativity, savvy shopping, and smart money moves, you can keep your cool all summer long – even with inflation!
The Coupons.com mobile app is available for download in the App store and on Google Play.