Look, we’re not about to let an empty bank account (or tariffs 🙃) stop us from having an amazing summer, okay? Just because inflation is inflating, this doesn’t have to mean we can’t be outside, looking good, eating good, and living our best lives.
The key? Being strategic and very intentional. You can live your best life on a budget this summer, and I want to help! So, let’s get into these seven ways to have a rich summer—without your wallet crying for help.
#1 Become the Picnic Queen
Sis, why are we spending $100+ every weekend on bottomless brunches when we can have a bougie picnic for the low? Grab a cute blanket, pack some charcuterie (an adult Lunchable 😄), whip up some snacks, and pour up a mocktail (or BYOB, we grown).
Head to the park, rooftop, or even your backyard. Bonus points if you get a speaker and a cute sundress for the aesthetic. Make sure you post your pics on the Gram, so you can inspire others to live good for less!
#2 Master the Art of the At-Home Spa Day
Now, I am going to say this as someone who is currently in esthetician school at the time of writing this article, but…who is paying $200 for a spa day when we have YouTube and Amazon?
Run a bath, throw in some Epsom salts (because that back pain is real), light some candles, and play some R&B.
Grab a face mask, do your nails, and slather on that body oil like you’re about to be on a Fenty Skin campaign. You’ll be relaxed, glowing, and feeling expensive—without actually spending a dime. Check out How to Give Yourself a Spa Facial at Home for some easy steps!
#3 Find Free & Low-Cost Events in Your City
If you’re paying to go somewhere every weekend, you’re doing it wrong. Most cities have free concerts, festivals, and movie nights—because they know our budgets are strategic, but still want to be outside.
Hit up Eventbrite, your local parks and rec website, or even social media to find all the free fun happening around you. Plus, mingling with people on a budget just hits differently.
#4 Travel Like a Budget Baddie
You don’t need a passport stamp to have a getaway. Look into affordable road trips or day trips nearby. Grab your girls, make a fire playlist, and hit the road.
Find an Airbnb with a pool and split it like you’re going half on a bill. If you must fly, use Google Flights and set price alerts, or check out budget airlines—just be ready to pack light because those baggage fees are disrespectful. Want some more ideas? Check out 8 Ways to Save Money on Travel.
#5 Get Your Fitness Fix for Free
Gym memberships? We don’t know them. The real move is free outdoor workouts, YouTube fitness routines, and TikTok dance challenges that lowkey burn more calories than a treadmill.
Go for a walk, take a free yoga class at the park, or turn your living room into a mini bootcamp. And if you really need the gym, check out free trials or community centers that don’t cost your entire paycheck.
#6 DIY Your Summer Wardrobe
The girls are thrifting, upcycling, and making fashion magic out of what they already own. Before you go on a shopping spree, try a closet haul. Mix and match pieces you forgot you had or hit up thrift stores for unique finds.
Want to be extra fancy? Host a clothing swap with your besties and give each other new looks without spending a dime. Sustainability, but make it stylish!
#7 Eat Good Without Breaking the Bank
Eating out every day? That’s a luxury our budgets (and waistlines) cannot afford. Instead, master some fire summer recipes that are quick, delicious, and budget-friendly.
Think: grilled salmon, fresh salads, and homemade iced coffee so Starbucks doesn’t keep robbing you. Also, summer is prime farmer’s market season—get fresh produce for cheap and stunt like you’re in a Whole Foods commercial.
Listen, being rich is a mindset. You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a good time, you just need to be intentional, creative, and willing to finesse the system (legally, of course, but no judgment here).
Make it a point to be outside, have fun, and live your best life this summer, all while keeping your bank account intact. Now, who’s ready to invite me for a picnic/cookout?! 😂
Related: How to be “That Girl” on a Budget
If you’re a proud member of the CGS Community, drop some love and comment below! Stay connected with us via our IG @citygirlsavings and join the tight-knit online community via our City Girl Savings Facebook Group. Love podcasts?! Listen to the City Girl Savings podcast featuring our very own Founder/CEO, Raya Reaves, as she covers topics to help us City Girls live the life that we deserve!
-Lena
The CGS Team
