How to avoid summer debt traps 

Between day trips, rising energy bills, and spontaneous events, your budget might take a bigger hit than you expect. Here’s how to keep your finances cool and avoid falling into common summer debt traps. 

Alternatives to expensive kids activities 

Summer camps, clubs, and outings can be expensive, especially if you’re trying to keep your kids entertained every day. Look for free or low-cost community programs, check your local council for affordable options, and consider swapping playdates with other parents to share the load (and the cost). Planning ahead helps avoid those pricey, last-minute activity bookings. 

Say no to FOMO 

The fear of missing out is real, especially when your social media feed is packed with BBQs, beach days, and festival highlights. But remember: it’s okay to say no and skip a few outings. Constantly trying to keep up with others can lead to overspending and financial stress. Instead, focus on meaningful experiences that fit your budget, and don’t be afraid to suggest cheaper alternatives when making plans with friends. 

Plan holidays in advance 

Scrambling to plan a last-minute getaway? That’s often when prices spike. Try booking your holidays well in advance or consider shifting your plans to later in the season when demand, and prices, tend to drop. 

Looking for budget-friendly holiday ideas? Check out our post from last year for practical tips: Tips for Keeping Your Summer Holiday Affordable 

Stay cool on a budget 

With higher temps come higher utility bills, especially if you’re cranking up the fan or lowering your fridge temp. There are plenty of ways to beat the heat without breaking the bank. Make use of free air-conditioned spaces like libraries, museums, and community centres. You can also check out our guide with smart, budget-conscious ways to stay cool: 5 Tips to Stay Cool in Summer 

Start prepping for Back to School 

We know—summer holidays haven’t even properly started yet! But planning for back-to-school now can save you a lot of money (and stress) later. Prices on supplies often spike closer to the start of term, and second-hand uniforms tend to disappear quickly. 

Get ahead by checking local Facebook groups or community boards for gently used uniforms, backpacks, and other essentials. Charity shops are also a great place to score affordable supplies—just be sure to pop in before the back-to-school rush kicks in. 

While researching this blog, we spotted this Tiktok from Lidl highlighting their £5 school uniform bundles 

Use your credit wisely 

Summer fun isn’t worth the stress of high-interest debt. Try to avoid financing holidays, events, or day-to-day spending on credit cards, especially if you’re not confident you can pay the balance off quickly. If you do use a credit card, set a clear spending limit and track your purchases to stay in control.  

Already feeling overwhelmed by multiple credit card balances? Debt consolidation could be a helpful option, allowing you to combine your debts into a single, more manageable monthly payment, often at a lower interest rate. That way, you can enjoy summer without dragging debt into the colder months ahead. See if it is the right option for you in our blog post. 

Summer should be about relaxing and enjoying yourself, not stressing over debt. With a little planning, some mindful spending, and a willingness to say “no” when needed, you can have a great time while keeping your finances in check. Your future self will thank you.