The Dog Days of Summer: How They Impact Your Spending
The “dog days of summer” are here—long days, sweltering heat, and an overwhelming urge to escape into vacations, social outings, and anything that feels like fun. But here’s the problem: without a plan, these small “it’s summer, I deserve it” splurges add up fast. From spontaneous weekend trips to extra iced coffee runs and takeout because it’s “too hot to cook,” managing your budget without a plan can quickly spiral out of control.
The Numbers: How Most Americans Are Spending
You’re not alone if summer feels more expensive than expected. According to recent surveys:
Over 60% of Americans report overspending during summer months.
Nearly 40% admit they don’t track their seasonal spending at all.
Vacation costs are up by nearly 20% in the last few years, making “quick getaways” more expensive than ever.
These numbers show the reality: many of us enter the season without a clear plan for how to manage extra costs.
The Emotions: Why Summer Spending Feels Different
Summer has a way of playing with our emotions. You might feel:
Guilt: You know you’re overspending, but you want to enjoy the moment.
Pressure: Social media makes it seem like everyone else is taking big vacations or enjoying expensive outings.
Stress: Your bank balance doesn’t match your summer fun, leaving you worried about bills or future goals.
Recognizing these emotions is key—they drive impulsive choices that often lead to financial regret.
Hope for Change: Tips to Shift Your Money Mindset
The good news? You can enjoy summer without blowing your budget. Here’s how:
Set a “summer fun fund.” Decide how much you can spend on trips, outings, or treats—and stick to it.
Plan affordable activities. Free community events, park picnics, and staycations can be just as fulfilling.
Track spending weekly. A quick review helps you course-correct before things get out of hand.
Focus on experiences over things. Often, the best memories aren’t tied to expensive purchases.
By shifting your mindset from “spontaneous spending” to “intentional enjoyment,” you can take back control of your finances while still soaking up the season.
Ready to Align Your Goals and Why?
If you're tired of feeling stuck or frustrated with your finances, it might be time for a different approach. At Curbelo Financial Coaching, we help you not just set smart goals, but also uncover the powerful why behind them.
Schedule your free assessment call today: https://calendly.com/gcfinancialcoach21/assessmentsession or visit www.curbelofinancialcoaching.com to start your journey toward financial clarity and success.
