Summer is just around the corner, and learning how to create a summer budget is a must! While the sunshine and family adventures are exciting, let’s be honest — summer can get expensive fast!

Between vacations, summer camps, pool days, and endless snack runs, it’s easy to lose track of spending.

If you want to enjoy your summer without worrying about money, a simple summer budget is your secret weapon.

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can plan ahead, stress less, and soak up every moment! 🌞

7 Simple Steps to Create a Summer Budget

1. Start With a Summer Spending List

Before you even think about numbers, list out everything you might spend money on this summer. Some ideas:

Family vacations or weekend getaways
Summer camps or sports for the kids
Pool passes or splash park visits
Extra groceries (because kids eat everything when they’re home)
Summer wardrobe updates
Birthday parties, festivals, and community events
Travel expenses (gas, hotels, flights)
Home projects (gardening, deck upgrades, etc.)

👉 Tip: Think about both the fun and the unexpected costs (hello, broken flip-flops or last-minute BBQ invites!).

Summer Essentials for Moms

20 Summer Lunches that Kids Love

2. Estimate Costs for Each Category

Once you have your list, jot down an estimated cost next to each item. Don’t stress about being perfect — just take your best guess based on past summers or quick online research.

For example:

Summer camp: $300
New swimsuits for the kids: $60
Weekend trip to the beach: $500

Seeing it all in one place helps you spot what’s realistic — and what might need adjusting.

Related Posts:

How to Get Organized for Summer Break

5 Best Summer Schedules with Kids

3. Set Your Total Summer Budget

Now ask yourself: How much can you actually afford to spend this summer without dipping into savings or running up debt?

Take into account:

Any extra income you’ll earn this summer (bonuses, side hustles, tax refunds)
Monthly bills that stay the same
Your financial goals (saving for a home, emergency fund, etc.)

👉 Tip: It’s okay if your dream summer costs more than you can spend. That’s why the next step is so important!

4. Prioritize What Matters Most

If you can’t do everything, focus on what will create the most joy for your family.

Maybe the weekend trip matters more than expensive camps.
Maybe you host backyard BBQs instead of going out to eat.

Choose your “non-negotiables” first, then see where you can save or skip to stay within your budget.

5. Create a Weekly or Bi-Weekly Spending Plan

Instead of just looking at the summer as a whole, break it down:

How much can you spend per week or every two weeks?
Can you set aside a little “fun money” for spontaneous ice cream runs or water park days?

This makes it way easier to stick to your budget without feeling restricted.

6. Use Cash or Separate Accounts If It Helps

Some moms find it super helpful to:

Pull out a set amount of cash for fun activities each week (when it’s gone, it’s gone!)
Or transfer summer fun money into a separate bank account

Small tweaks like this can make staying on track almost effortless.

7. Track Your Summer Spending (Lightly!)

You don’t have to be glued to a spreadsheet — just do quick weekly check-ins.

Are you staying close to your limits?
Are you getting the experiences you wanted?
Do you need to adjust anything?

Flexibility is key — summer is for memories, not perfection!

Final Thoughts: A Summer Budget = A Fun, Guilt-Free Summer ☀️

Making a summer budget doesn’t mean you have to cut out all the fun. It means planning for fun — and making sure you’re not stressing about money when fall rolls around.

Plan ahead, keep it simple, and remember: the best summer memories are often the ones that don’t cost a thing. 💛

Ready to start your summer budget? Grab this free Summer Budget Worksheet to make it even easier!