a pool with a pool float, inflatable toys, and the word summer by Warren Umoh courtesy of Unsplash.

Your Summer Money Checklist

Jenny Lou Faber |

Summer is a season of sun, spontaneity, and—often—spending. Whether it's vacations, kids at home, home improvement projects, or just embracing the longer days, summer tends to throw our financial habits off track. We sat down with Duane Silbernagel and Rilee Johnson to chat about smart money moves for the season and how families can enjoy summer without breaking the bank.

 

Summer Spending: Good Intentions, Looser Habits

“People are a little busier, don’t want to take the time to sit down and review things… they kind of try to have fun throughout the summer,” Rilee said, highlighting how routines often fall by the wayside in the warmer months. Duane agreed, adding that while spending more isn’t necessarily “bad,” it’s important to be aware of it and stay within your means.

Between unplanned expenses like car repairs or travel hiccups and increased costs—like higher electricity bills, summer activities, or eating out—budgeting can become more challenging. “It’s not that it’s a bad thing, it’s just that you need to work within your budget,” Duane reminded us.

Computer open and an open notebook with a post-it reminder to review budget in July

 

Is Summer a Good Time to Check in on Finances?

Short answer: yes—if you make the time.

While summer can be busier for many families, for those with more flexible schedules (like teachers), it may be the perfect opportunity to take stock of your finances. Even if it’s just a quick check-in, Duane emphasized the value: “Late June, early July makes the math really easy. We’re halfway through the year, and you can start looking at annual projections.”

He adds that this mid-year point is great for catching any surprises early—like unexpected income, inheritances, or shifts in expenses—and adjusting your tax or savings strategies accordingly.

 

Commonly Forgotten Summer Expenses

From higher utility bills and home maintenance to back-to-school shopping and property taxes in the fall, the list of easily overlooked seasonal costs is long.

“People forget that at the end of summer, you still have to pay for all the back-to-school stuff,” Jenny added. “And if you pay car insurance every six months, that could hit too.”

Duane also reminded us that “wear and tear on your vehicle,” summer life insurance premiums, and even air conditioning costs can sneak up if you’re not watching your spending.

 

Tips to Enjoy Summer Without Overspending

Here are some smart strategies our team shared for balancing fun and finances:

  • Prepay for trips: Booking and paying for travel in advance can help avoid last-minute budget stress.
  • Have a clear budget: Know what you’re willing to spend—and stick to it.
  • Say no when needed: Whether it’s to the kids or yourself, discipline matters. “No, that wasn’t planned. We didn’t account for that. We’re not going to do it,” Duane said.
  • Plan emergency funds: Set aside money for the “stuff happens” moments—whether it’s a flat tire or a surprise vet visit.

Rilee put it simply: “Just prepare ahead of time so that you’re not blindsided when the time comes.”

Map, passport, sunglasses, and a jar labeled Travel with money inside

Easy Summer Wins for Your Wallet

Want some quick financial wins this summer? Try these:

  • Swap restaurants for backyard BBQs.
  • Choose a campsite over a hotel.
  • Stick closer to home to save on fuel.
  • Make a game of saving—budget $2,000 for a trip and see how far under that you can stay.

“It’s not about how much money you spend,” Duane said. “It’s about the memories you create.”

 

Talking to Your Kids About Money This Summer

Summer is a great time to help kids build good money habits. Rilee shared that even little ones can start learning about saving, while teens can practice with summer jobs, paychecks, or planning for college.

Duane shared a real-life lesson from his son: “He wanted a new cell phone. We talked through financing options and interest, and instead, we made a summer payment plan together. It’s a small but powerful lesson in budgeting and responsibility.”

They also discussed tools like Greenlight—a debit card and savings app for kids. While they had mixed feelings about it, both Rilee and Duane agreed that real cash still holds powerful teaching value. “When you have a $100 bill in your wallet, you think twice before spending it,” Duane noted.

 

Mid-Year Planning for Taxes and Retirement

Tax forms with post-it that reads mid-year review

 Now’s the perfect time to check:

  •  Are you on track with your income?
  • Are there any windfalls or major changes to consider?
  • What might your tax picture look like at year-end?

 And if you’re nearing retirement? Check in on savings, HSA eligibility, and any income changes due to pensions or Social Security. “Summertime is as  good a time as any to sit down and run through that together,” said Rilee.

 

Wrapping Up: Set Yourself Up for a Smooth Fall

Table with folded sweaters, open book, fallen leaves, and a piggy bank

Want a smooth end to the year? Take time now.

“Even just once or twice throughout the summer,” Rilee said, “take a moment, sit down, and make sure you’re on track. That peace of mind will go a long way.”

And Duane added: “You need to be active with your finances. The more you engage, the better you’ll get—and the smoother your fall and tax season will be.”