Fun on a Budget: How to Beat Inflation Woes This Summer

Kids just want to have fun. And I just want a savings account. With summer here, that often means vacations, theme parks, and eating out. But with today’s prices, those activities can really add up. Remember when a family night out at McDonald’s cost under $20? Now, a trip to the clown’s place can set you back $45, which is about the same as a sit-down Mexican restaurant. And a day at the water park that used to cost around $15 now runs $35 just for admission.

Here’s the thing: increasing the minimum wage doesn’t necessarily help, as prices on basic goods and services also go up. For instance, in Missouri, the minimum wage is $12.50 an hour, but a Big Mac meal costs $11.79. Back in 2016, the minimum wage was $7.16 an hour, and that same meal was $6.19. This is basic economics seems our government cant figure out, but I am not one for getting political. So what can a dad do to manage costs and still have fun with the kids? Here are four things we’ve done to beat inflation this summer:

1. Start a Veggie Garden:
   • Although it cost a bit to get started, we’re now reaping the benefits with fresh produce. By planting seeds throughout the year, we ensure a continuous harvest, reducing our grocery bill.
2. Find Free Activities:
   • While water parks are fun, they can be expensive. Instead, we grabbed a tarp and a hose to make an outdoor slide. The kids spent hours on it, and it cost next to nothing.
3. Consolidate Errands:
   • We make the most of each trip out by combining errands. A single outing might include a doctor’s appointment, an oil change, grocery shopping, and shoe shopping. This saves on gas and reduces the number of trips. We also bring water bottles, snacks, and sometimes a picnic lunch to avoid unnecessary spending.
4. Home Entertainment:
   • Instead of spending money on outings, we create fun at home. Movie nights, backyard camping, and DIY crafts keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank.

By being creative and planning ahead, we can enjoy a fun summer while keeping our finances in check. What are some of your tips for saving money during the summer? Share your ideas in the comments!