Make the Most of Summer: Fun, Sun, and Smart Money Moves

The good news? Summer is officially here! The better news? You don’t have to break the bank to make it memorable. Whether you’re road tripping, beach hopping, or just looking to slow down and soak it all in, a little planning can help you stretch your dollars and make every moment count.

Smarter Ways to Travel

Summer is prime time for getaways thanks to school breaks, warm weather, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. It’s also one of the most expensive seasons to hit the road (or skies). Here’s how to travel smarter and keep more money in your pocket:

• Book flights on Sunday and fly mid-week: Sundays tend to be the cheapest to book, and flying on off-peak days like Tuesday or Wednesday can cut costs. 
• Pack light and bring snacks: Avoid baggage fees and skip overpriced airport food by keeping it simple and travel-ready. 
• Consider road trips over flights: Many travelers drive to save money and avoid airport stress, enjoying big fun without big costs. 
• Redeem rewards for hotels and earn more on the go: Use your credit card points for flights or hotel stays, and earn even more when you pay for gas or dining. Just make sure to pay it off to skip the interest. 
• Headed out of town? Submit a travel notice in Online or Mobile Banking 2–3 days before your trip to avoid card hiccups while you're away.

Local Adventures Can Be Just as Cool

Who says you have to go far to have fun? One of the best things about living in Southern California is there are so many incredible adventures right under our noses. Here are ways to make the most of our own “backyard”:

• Discover the hidden gems: Explore nearby trails, beach towns, desert escapes, or quirky roadside stops you’ve driven past a hundred times but never visited. 
• Take advantage of free and low-cost events: Local concerts, art walks, outdoor movie nights, and farmers markets are perfect for summer nights out. 
• Make it a staycation: Book a night at a local hotel or campground, unplug, and play tourist in your own town. You might be surprised what you’ve been missing! 
• Check out a free California State Library Parks Pass: California library cardholders can borrow a State Parks day-use pass for free entry to over 200 locations.

Budget-Friendly Fun for the Whole Crew

You don’t need a massive budget to make big memories this summer. Here are a few low-cost ways to keep everyone entertained without overspending: 

• Set a weekly fun fund…cash only! Stick to a set amount for treats or outings. It adds structure without sacrificing spontaneity. 
• Use apps to find last-minute deals: Score discounts on local attractions, activities, or even family meals with apps like Groupon or community deal sites like Frontwave's new Community Kickbacks!
• Host a backyard BBQ potluck: Skip the pricey dinners out and fire up the grill, invite friends, and have everyone bring a dish. 
• Plan themed nights at home: Create a DIY movie night, game tournament, or backyard camping experience. It’s fun, flexible, and most of all, free.

Give Your Wallet a Break, Not Your Goals

It’s easy to feel like summer is all about spending, but it’s also a great time to refocus on your financial wellness. A few simple moves now can help you stay on track while still enjoying everything the season has to offer. Here are some easy ways to keep your finances in shape while you soak up the sun:

• Automate your savings: Set up a recurring transfer. Even $10 a week can build momentum without much effort. 
• Track your spending: Use a budgeting app to stay on top of where your money is going. Awareness is key to staying in control. 
• Try a no-spend weekend: Challenge yourself to enjoy a couple of days using only what you already have. It’s a fun way to reset your budget. 
• Review your credit: Check your credit score and report for free. Look for any errors or areas you can improve. 
• Tap into your perks: Check your various rewards programs for discounts or point redemptions you might be missing. 
• Audit your subscriptions: Cancel or consolidate services you don’t use. You might be surprised how much you can save!

Summer, Smarter

So go ahead. Chase the sunsets, grill with friends, take that road trip, or just kick back and enjoy the slower pace. With these tips in your back pocket, you can enjoy every moment without letting your finances take a back seat.