Financial Wellness Minute: Money Saving Tips for the Summer Months

Get smarter about your money with this Financial Wellness Minute. I'm Vic Dale, manager at Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union's Alexandria Office. Summer has arrived in central Minnesota after a long winter. As you take part in summer activities and maybe go on vacation, you may be spending more money than you have in recent summers.  Here are some tips to help you stay on track with your money this summer:

1. Find ways to save while on a vacation. You've earned your time away.
   • Stay flexible with your vacation dates, as certain weeks may be cheaper to travel and lodge.
   • If you have a kitchen in your hotel room or Airbnb, etc., consider packing lunches for the day and cooking dinner for a few nights to reduce the restaurant charges.
   • Research "buy one get one" packages through an area chamber of commerce or local city apps like Groupon.
2. Pay attention to the temperature of your home. If able, program the temp to be slightly higher when you and your family are not at home and adjust it when you get back for your comfort.
3. Don't forget about your bills. Make sure you have taken care of any payments and bills that are due while you are away, that way you do not need to worry about late fees.
4. For the future, set up a holiday or vacation saving account which is automatic. By having a separate account or fund, you can budget for these specials times and not throw your household budget out of whack.

Bottom line, enjoy the summer months and your travels. By making smart spending and saving decisions, you will be happy all year long. Want to know more about how to save or have a weekly financial wellness tip sent to you? Sign up below or, contact your local Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union Office. Sign Up for a Weekly Financial Wellness Tip Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and we are an equal housing lender.