July is the heart of summer and while it’s packed with barbecues, vacations, and fun in the sun, it can also become a sneaky budget buster if you’re not careful.
But don’t worry you don’t have to choose between saving money and making memories. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy everything July has to offer without overspending.
Here are 20 easy ways to live frugally in July—from budget-friendly summer fun to grocery hacks that’ll lower your weekly bill.
1. Host a Backyard BBQ Potluck
Instead of going out to eat or hosting an expensive party, invite a few friends or neighbors over and make it a potluck! You provide the main dish (think hot dogs, burgers, or grilled veggie skewers), and have everyone bring a side or dessert.
2. Plan Free (or Nearly Free) Summer Activities for the Family
There are so many fun things to do that don’t cost a dime:
- Visit local splash pads or community beaches
- Go on a nature scavenger hunt
- Attend free local events, parades, or concerts in the park
- Have a backyard movie night (use a white sheet and a mini projector like this one)
You can also make summer activities feel special by planning themed days with the kids: Water Wednesday, Crafty Thursday, or Field Trip Friday!
3. Take Advantage of Summer Produce Sales
Grocery prices can skyrocket during holidays, but July also brings deals on fresh produce like corn, tomatoes, peaches, and watermelon. Stock up when they’re on sale and freeze what you can’t eat right away.
Pro tip: Use a vacuum sealer to extend the life of your food and reduce waste.
4. DIY Popsicles Instead of Store-Bought Treats
Instead of buying overpriced frozen treats at the store or local stand, try making your own popsicles at home. All you need is fruit juice, yogurt, or blended fruit and a reusable popsicle mold.
This is a fun activity to do with kids and a great way to use up fruit that’s about to go bad.
5. Use a Grocery List (and Stick to It)
Impulse buys are budget killers. Before you shop, create a meal plan for the week and make a detailed grocery list. Stick to the list when you’re in the store, and avoid shopping while hungry.
Even better, order your groceries online through pickup services so you’re not tempted by the cookie aisle.
6. Take Advantage of Free Library Programs
Your local library likely offers free story times, craft days, and summer reading programs for kids and teens. This is one of the most underrated ways to entertain the family while giving your AC a break.
Grab a tote and fill it up with books, movies, and even board games—for free.
7. Have a No-Spend Challenge
Challenge yourself (and your family) to go a full weekend—or even a whole week—without spending any money on extras. That means no coffee runs, no takeout, and no shopping sprees.
Use what you already have in the fridge, freezer, and pantry. Need a fun way to track your no-spend challenge? Grab our printable no-spend tracker and make it a game!
8. Shop Summer Sales Strategically
July brings major sales thanks to events like Prime Day, back-to-school deals, and end-of-season clearances. Be smart about it—only buy what you need or have planned for (like replacing worn-out summer sandals or stocking up on discounted school supplies).
Need to refresh your reusable water bottles for summer hikes? Try this highly rated insulated water bottle and stop buying plastic ones on the go.
9. Make Use of Free Printable Activities for Kids
Instead of buying new activity books or toys, download free printable games and activities for kids from sites like Kidz Craft Corner.
Whether you’re on a road trip, need a quiet-time activity, or want to break a boredom streak, printables are a frugal parent’s best friend.
10. Swap Babysitting With Friends
Want a date night or a quiet afternoon to yourself? Swap babysitting with another trusted parent. This way, you both get time off without paying for a sitter.
You can even create a regular schedule—every other Friday, one family takes all the kids while the other enjoys a little free time.
11. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Don’t let your energy bill skyrocket. A programmable thermostat helps regulate your cooling costs by adjusting the temperature automatically when you’re asleep or away from home.
Keep blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to keep things cooler, too!
12. Take Day Trips Instead of Vacations
Skip the hotel and gas bill of a long road trip. Look for fun day trips near home—like hiking trails, lakes, small-town festivals, or even free museums. Pack a cooler with homemade snacks and drinks to avoid impulse buys on the road.
13. Declutter and Host a Yard Sale
Summer is the perfect time to declutter. Go through closets, garages, and kids’ rooms—and host a weekend yard sale! You’ll earn extra cash and get a cleaner house. Anything that doesn’t sell? Donate it and grab a tax write-off.
14. Keep a Cooler in the Car
Avoid expensive drive-thru stops by keeping a small soft-sided cooler packed with snacks, water bottles, and fruit when you’re on the go.
This is especially helpful with kids in tow on hot summer outings.
15. Limit Subscriptions
Mid-year is a great time to audit your monthly expenses. Cancel or pause subscriptions you’re not using—whether it’s streaming platforms, gym memberships, or unused apps.
Even saving $10/month adds up to $120 a year!
16. Wash Laundry in Cold Water
Hot water = higher utility bills. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible and hang them to dry in the sunshine. A simple switch like this can save you several dollars per load over time.
17. Cook Outside to Lower Cooling Costs
Using your oven during the summer heats up your house and makes your AC work harder. Cook meals on the grill or use a crockpot or air fryer to keep the house cool.
18. Make DIY Summer Decor
Instead of buying seasonal home decor, get creative! Use supplies you already have or grab a cheap craft kit to make summer wreaths, banners, or table centerpieces. Involve the kids and make it a family project.
19. Use Cashback and Rebate Apps
If you do make summer purchases, use apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, or Fetch Rewards to earn cash back. You’re going to shop anyway—might as well earn a few dollars back while you’re at it!
20. Plan an At-Home Spa Day
Skip the expensive salon. Light a candle, put on a DIY face mask, and paint your nails at home using a mani/pedi kit. Bonus: Invite a friend over and make it a girls’ night for free!
Final Thoughts
Living frugally in July doesn’t mean giving up all the summer fun. It just means being intentional with your money and looking for smart swaps and savings wherever you can.
From DIY summer fun to grocery store hacks, these simple ideas can help you make the most of the season without draining your bank account.
Looking for more summer savings inspiration?👉 Grab your free Budget + Savings Printables here.
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