Summer is the busiest spending season of the year for most Americans–amidst spiking gas, groceries, travel, and utility bills, it’s difficult to enjoy the season without breaking the bank. But with a little planning, you can make the most of the busy vacation and gathering seasons with less financial stress.

Whatever your plans are, there are plenty of ways to save–starting right where you live.

AT HOME

The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts that in 2026, American households will spend an average of $178 per month (June-September), with the total for the summer rising to $712.

You can cut that cost by being energy-efficient. Close doors to rooms you’re not in. Try alternative cooling methods at night, like leaving windows open, using the fan, or switching to lighter bedding. 

You can also use a smart thermostat to set a slightly higher temperature in your home when you aren’t around. Entergy Arkansas offers residents up to $60 in instant rebates on qualifying smart thermostats, and can also get a free smart thermostat for enrolling their own device in Entergy’s program.

Speaking of temperature, it’s the time of year to enjoy the outdoors! More time there means less time in front of the screens. Look at any streaming services you can do without. You can always add it back whenever the next season of your favorite weekend marathon arrives.

AT THE STORE

The summer is a great time to stock up on summer clothes… for next year!

Seasonal sales happen earlier and earlier, with some summer items discounted as early as June. That’s especially true for summer apparel like shorts and swimwear. The longer you wait, the greater the discounts, though the smaller the supply and variety.

If you wait until August, you can typically save on things like garden tools and porch furniture, and if you wait a little longer, September and October, you can find the best deals on barbecue grills and lawnmowers.

You can also save at the grocery store. It’s easy to overspend on food, but shopping smart can make a big difference. 

In-season local produce – which includes corn and tomatoes in the summer – tends to be fresher and cheaper than out-of-season produce. Buy the generic options instead of the name brand. You can also hit up the local farmer’s market for produce, meats, eggs, and baked goods.

If you love to grill, go with hot dogs or frozen meat, as both are cheaper. For steak, switch to a cheaper cut and marinate it before it hits the heat.

Finally, raid your pantry. If you’ve got stuff that’s been in there a while – canned produce and other products – why not finally use them? They’re already paid for. 

ON THE ROAD

Gas prices are a big expense in the summer, which is why it’s worth looking around a little bit instead of just going to your usual fuel pump.

Whether you’re staying in town or hitting the road for vacation, look for the pumps that are a little further off the highway. The first station you see is rarely the cheapest. Also, if you’re on a road trip, do some pre-trip planning. Prices vary per state, so it might be cheaper to stop and fill up before crossing state lines.

While you’re driving, avoid abrupt accelerating and braking. It’s safer AND will improve your fuel economy. So will using your cruise control on the highway and turning off your engine when parked rather than idling.

If you’re running errands, get them all done in one trip. Avoid multiple trips each day if possible to cut down on gas usage. That includes filling up the tank.

IN THE AIR

If you do plan to fly off on a vacation this summer, avoid the most popular travel days and times. According to the travel site Hopper, you’ll save an average of $42 on domestic airfare when you fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of the weekend. If you can, schedule your vacation for late in the summer. Flying in August or September/October, if possible, saved domestic travellers 40% on average (about $150).