Back to school sales can be really tempting, especially if you’re in a hurry to grab all of the things you think your child is going to need for the upcoming school year. With lots of sales to choose from, it may be hard to resist getting everything you need right away. However, some back to school sales aren’t exactly the best, which can leave you spending even more money than you would have expected to. Although it is okay to shop these sales, there’s a few items you should consider avoiding if you plan on saving some money this school year. This quick list will show you everything that isn’t budget friendly, so you don’t have to stress over spending too much!

1. Cheap Backpacks
One of the most popular items on the back to school list is backpacks. You can easily find a cheap backpack on sale that will suit your child for now, but there is a major problem with buying into this sale. That problem is, the backpack, like the price, are also cheap. If you have a younger child, then they may be able to get away with having only one of these backpacks throughout the school year. However, once your child begins to carry around text books, you’re probably going to have to buy two or more of these cheap backpacks a year, which can really cost you some money. This is especially true if the cheap backpacks aren’t on sale after a certain period of time. This can run you a lot of money, so you may as well take the money you would use here and spend it on a backpack worth buying. Make sure you check the seams and other assets to ensure the backpack you pick is going to hold strong.

2. Specialized Items
Most children are going to want to go for the specialized items if they get their choice in the matter. The only problem is most teachers want you to have certain colors for the items they pick, so you’ll be buying these items for nothing. Also, specialized characters quickly go out of style, which could leave your children begging for new items before the first term is even over. Generally, backpacks and other items made with characters aren’t as strong as regular items either, so you may end up replacing them even if they are accepted by the school. These items are more of a target for theft too, which could be a problem if your child’s school doesn’t offer secure lockers. So, it is simply easier and cheaper to give your child a solid colored item just to make life a little easier.

3. Autumn Fashion
When it comes to back to school shopping, there’s going to be lots of new fall fashions already on the sales rack. This doesn’t mean these items will be on sale though. In fact, when it comes down to it, these items are usually strategically placed near the items that are on sale, like near the jeans section. This is to tempt people into making the purchase even though the price tag isn’t actually a sale. These clothes will go on sale in the mid-season, but until then they will be a high price that isn’t great for smaller back to school budgets. Not to mention, your child may not even need to wear the autumn clothes for a month or two, so it may not even be wise to choose these options right now. Instead, look around for staple clothes like pants, jeans, skirts and tops that can be worn no matter the season.

4. Expensive Pens/Pencils
When it comes to classic items like pens and pencils, there’s never any reason to buy your child the most expensive items on the market. Most kids wind up losing their pens and pencils more often than not, so you could simply be throwing money down the drain. Some teachers also may not want your child to use certain inks, which could also be a waste of money in the long run. The best thing you can do is grab a bulk container of pens or pencils. These tend to cost less than one of two packages of the expensive brand and will last your child much longer as they can be lost without fear of losing out on lots of money. Mechanical pencils are another thing to avoid when it comes to school purchases. Sure, these items may seem cool to your child, but they can be hard to upkeep. Some pencil lead for mechanical pencils can cost way too much, which makes it hard to keep up. Not to mention, the lead easily breaks or can be lost on the ground. Some teachers won’t let children use the pencils, especially when it comes to testing as the lead cannot work with scantron readers.

5. Too Many Clothes
Back to school sales are designed to make you want to shop until you drop. So, many school children wind up coming home with new school clothing that could last them a month between washings. You don’t have to go crazy over clothes when it comes to these sales. Try to stick to just the essential items at first and then if you really feel the need to add to the pile then toss in a couple of the items your student may like. Many students start school out with a brand new wardrobe, even though there was nothing wrong with the old wardrobe. The only problem is; kids outgrow clothes incredibly fast. So, half of the items you purchased may not end up making it through the first semester. Instead you may want to buy an item or two throughout the year, so the wardrobe stays fresh and your child will have clothes that fit properly. This will also save you money, because you will be strict enough to know you can only buy a few things.

6. Advanced Supplies
Most parents want to make sure that their child has everything they could possibly need to become a success in school. So, they will buy items like calculators, graphing paper, compasses and other supplies that may not even be necessary. Worse yet, none of these large ticket items will even be on sale during the back to school sales, so you’ll wind up spending a whole lot of money on them. The best option is to wait for your child to begin school. This will help you know if you’ll even need these items at all. Many schools will actually loan out calculators and other supplies like this to help children succeed in classes. If, for whatever reason they do not, you can usually find these items on clearance as soon as the back to school stuff hits the clearance racks. This should help save you some money and help you get exactly what your student needs, so you don’t have to turn back and return it if the teacher complains.

7. Name Brands
For many, name brands mean high quality, but these days that really isn’t the case. There’s lots of generic brands available that will do the exact same job as the pricier name brand items. These items also cost a whole lot less and offer you more savings when you hit the back to school sales. Even if you’re not keen on these items, you may want to consider if your child will even get to use their back to school items. In many classrooms, especially in the early years, students are forced to share the items they bring to school so it may be pointless to even buy the expensive items. This is especially true when it comes to tissues as most classrooms take these items on the very first day and keep them for all to use throughout the year. So, you may want to skip the name brands as much as possible.

8. Extras
When it comes to back to school shopping, there’s a lot of extra items that you may think your child needs. From bouncy erasers to tape dispensers, your child could make out like a bandit if you’re checking out all of the extras on the back to school rack. The best thing you can do is avoid this section altogether though. Most teacher will consider any extras a toy and send them home straight away, so you’ll have a whole lot of extra items to contend with that will probably go unused. Some items are even banned from schools or illegal for your child to have. White out and permanent markers for instance could send your child home for the day if their school is particularly strict. So, you may want to skip the extras for now and simply follow the list you were given.

9. Non-Shareables
If you have more than one child in school, then bulk buys are probably your best friend. However, you should be careful which items you buy in bulk though. Usually paper, pens and pencils are the best possible items to buy in bulk. The package can be opened up and split between each child with a few items to spare for later in the year. Items like crayons, markers and colored pencils should probably be avoided though. These bulk buys do come with numerous items, but they also have a wider variety of items. So, there’s no way you would be able to give each child the colors they need, unless you find multiple packages in your bulk buy. Thus, carefully choosing when bulk items are going to help you out is sure to save on your budget and make your school budget stretch even further.

10. Dorm Decor
A lot of back to school sales now include items for college kids headed to the dorm. A lot of these items can come in handy, but you may want to consider skipping the dorm room decor aisle for the time beginning, especially if this is your student’s first time in a dorm room. Many people have an idea of what their student will need for the dorm, but when they see the room for the first time they also realize that there’s simply not enough room for half of the items the picked out. The best thing you can do is wait until you get to see the dorm room for the first time before you make any decisions here. This will give your child the time to get a feel for what they may need or want as well as how their roommates are going to react to their decor items. This will save you a whole lot of money anyway, as the items should have already made it to the clearance section before you make that choice.

Shopping for back to school items can be pretty tough, so don’t stress over it. There’s lots of great ways for you to save a pretty penny while allowing you to enjoy the buzz of a new school year. So try to enjoy the back to school shopping instead of simply stressing out over all of the money you’re spending. Before you know it, you’ll find that your child has everything he or she needs without forcing you to spend a whole lot more.

We all have lots of clothes lying around the house that we just don’t use anymore. Many people keep them in their closets collecting dust year after year, while others simply throw them away. There are a few things you can do to your clothes to help maximize the amount of money you put into them. These simple tips will help you get more worth out of your clothes, so you can feel great about your investments. Some of these concepts may even become a great family project, so you can all learn how to make more out of your clothing from now on. You won’t just be doing your budget a favor by following these ideas, but you’ll also be doing great by the environment too.

1. Blankets
A lot of people have fun t-shirts that they don’t want to part with well after the clothing looks faded and holey. There’s some great options for clothes like this though. For starters, you can cut out the image on your t-shirt and combine it with other shirts to make a large blanket. This can be accomplished by sewing, but if you’re not skilled like that then you may want to tie the pieces together to create a simple blanket that will look great on display. If you’re into quilting then you can also use the pieces for this, but you don’t have to simply stick to t-shirt pieces. You can use old baby clothes, jeans or even fabrics from family members that have passed on. Another option is to take old fabrics and braid them together to make a colorful blanket that will brighten up and dorm room.

2. Toys
Another exciting option, especially for children, is to turn the old clothing into soft toys. This can really be a creative project for the whole family to work on. Your child can draw out a cute character to make and you can use this drawing as a layout for your amazing new toy. This shouldn’t be too hard, especially since old fabrics come in all shapes and sizes. You can also use thicker fabrics to create things like baby rattles to excite your child as it learns. This is great because not only will it feel soft to the touch, but your scent will also be on the fabric, which is sure to make your child feel comforted. Smaller baby clothes can be repurposed as children’s doll clothes, which is sure to save a fortune and give your child lots of cute things to play with. Some of your older clothes can even be used for dress up options, especially if they look fancy or feature theme. Apart from that, old t-shirts and button downs can be used as smocks to allow kids to let their creative juices flow when it comes to painting and messy crafts.

3. Refurbish Clothes
If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably noticed some outstanding clothes hacks that don’t really take up a lot of time or require talent. These refurbished clothes hacks can help you make a bra, tank top or even a sexy dress in minutes flat. This is why refurbishing clothes is probably one of the best things you can do to clothing you aren’t as fond of anymore. There’s lots of options too, but looking online can give you some amazing ideas worth trying out in your free time. Of course, there’s some pretty simple refurbishing ideas that you may have been doing since childhood. For instance, one of the most popular is taking an old pair of jeans and turning them into a new pair of shorts. This cut off look has been in fashion for decades and can save you quite a bit of money. You can also turn old clothes into scarves, swoop neck tops, or even just a simple short sleeve shirt. The ideas are endless, so channel your inner fashionista and come up with something you’ll be proud to show off.

4. Patches
Kids like to play, which often means your child probably comes home with tears in their jeans and jackets. This doesn’t have to mean you need to go shopping for something new. In fact, it could be the perfect time to give your child’s clothes a little extra fashion boost. If you have old clothes lying around that are too small, ripped up or just not cool anymore then you can turn them into quick patches for your child’s clothes. Fun prints make a great option and will stand out to create a fun look your child’s friends will be envious of. You can also use denim to patch up the holes of jeans, for a less obvious look that will still seem fashion savvy. Patches are great for socks too, especially if you find lots of holes in socks that are even brand new. These patches don’t really have to look as great, but the style is totally in your hands.

5. Infant Supplies
Babies can be pretty expensive when it comes to providing them with everything they need. However, there’s actually a whole lot you can make for your little one when it comes to baby supplies. For starters, you can easily make swaddling blankets out of old clothes. This will be soft on baby’s skin and will offer a subtle scent that is sure to comfort your little one. Burp clothes and wash rags are another option that is sure to leave you saving some big money. You may even be surprised as to how many compliments you’ll get on your cool baby accessories. A sleeping bag for your little one is really easy to make too and is perfect for children who must go to daycare. With some quick sewing skills all you’ll need is a large t-shirt to accomplish this fun project. Last but not least, a pillow is an even easier project to create and is sure to leave your little one feeling comfortable.

6. Artwork
Not many people would think to turn their old clothing into art, but this is quickly becoming a trend that you may want to check out. This is great for anyone who has a graphic tee collection that they don’t want to say goodbye to even though the shirts are passed their prime. Simply take the shirt and cut out the graphic that you want. Then place it in a frame. If you can’t bear to do any cutting on your shirts then simply fold it up with the graphic in the front and place it in the frame that way. You may have to buy thicker frames in this case, but before you know it your home will look astonishing. This is also great for children as you can take some of the character shirts they’ve outgrown and place them on the wall. Another fun art project is to braid old fabrics together. You can use this as a rug or a tapestry to hang on the wall!

7. Handbags
If you can’t go anywhere without a cute bag to lug your supplies around in, then you’re going to love this craft. You can turn just about any article of clothing into a cute bag that is sure to make your friends jealous. You can find all sorts of tutorials online to do this, so you may wind up making a variety of different bags. The best thing about this project is you can make handbags based on the size you need them too. For instance, if you like to lug around lots of junk then a tote may suit you, whereas a small wristlet might work better for occasions when you only want a couple of things. One of the more common crafts associated with clothing is to take the waist portion of a pair of jeans and sew the leg holes shut. This creates a cute look complete with pockets for some of your must have supplies.

8. Rags
Sometimes, you just wind up with clothes that have no hope of being used as anything cute or fashionable. Maybe they are bleached out or too holey for recognition. No matter what the reason, you can still use them for something. That something is typically a rag. Since your clothes can’t be worn any longer they make the perfect cleaning device for just about anything and everything in the home. For instance, you can use an old cut up t-shirt to give the bathroom a nice rub down without having to worry about wasting paper towels. The same can be said for the kitchen or spills throughout the house. If you have clothes that are in really bad shape, then you may consider cutting them up for shoe shining or to help you out with checking your vehicles oil.

9. Sell Them
A lot of people end up with clothes that sit in the closet for years and are rarely ever worn. May it because the item doesn’t fit right or you simply don’t like it, there is a wise option to help you get rid of it without losing out on all of your money. There’s so many online and local consignment shops these days, that it’s incredibly easy to sell of your clothes. Many online shops will actually buy your clothes from you straight away, so you can go straight to enjoying the money you earned from them. However, many consignment shops will simply hold onto your clothes and give you a cut of the money when they finally sell. This can be a long process and may leave you frustrated before it’s all said and done. You can cut out the middle man altogether though by selling the clothes yourself. Sites like eBay are a great option here, or you could go the old fashioned route and have a garage sale.

10. Donate Them
If your clothes are in okay shape, or you simply don’t care if you get money back for them then donation is a great concept. There’s many charities that accept clothing year round. Many of these charities charge very little for the clothing and give what they do earn to the charity they represent. However, some of the clothes are actually given to the needy, which makes a huge different in their lives. You may also want to consider donating to your church or school to help those in your community who may not be having an easy time with their finances. Giving to friends and family is another rewarding idea that will help out those nearest and dearest to you. If you do decide to go with a charity, then you can get a receipt for the items you donated. Later in the year, this can be used as a tax right off, which will give you a bit of money back for the items you bought years ago.

Clothing can be easy to attach to as we experience so many amazing things while wearing our favorite items. However, there comes a time when your clothes simply aren’t what they used to be. Now, you don’t have to simply toss out your clothes when they’ve passed their prime. These tips will help you give them a longer life or ensure someone else gets to enjoy them for a little while too.

Choosing to do a gap year can be one of the most invigorating things, whether you’re choosing to do it directly after high school or between college and grad school or work. Of course, a lot of people who choose to do a gap year often plan out things to do that are way out of their budget. This can really detour many people from wanting to take a gap year. However, there’s a whole lot of things you can do on a budget that will keep you happy during your gap year. Now, you’ll be able to use this special time to find yourself without having to stress over money or where the future is going to lead you. So, think of this period as a deep breath and exhale all of the tension that may be holding you back!

1. Join Peace Corps
If your gap year is taking place after you graduate from college, then Peace Corps may be the perfect option to allow you to meet your goals. When you join Peace Corps you will be sent somewhere in the world that will allow you use your skills while seeing some incredible new places. Peace Corps is a great option for those looking to go into a field that helps the community. Peace Corps will place you in a job that suits what you’ve already learned. You may even be able to get some college credit for the work you do. Plus, you can defer student loans while you participate in Peace Corps. Those who do join the program are given a place to live and an allowance that is similar to what locals would earn. This will help anyone who joins learn to live a different lifestyle, which could be a priceless lesson to learn.

2. Teach English
Another great option for anyone who wants to travel abroad without the huge price tag is to join a teaching program. Different programs require different education levels, but if you can pass a certification test then you may find yourself abroad in no time at all. Most programs will set you up in a job and find you a place to stay, so you won’t have a lot to worry about when you move to your new surroundings. You may even have to take a crash course in the country’s origin, which is sure to help you down the line. Programs like this look really great when you apply to schools and even jobs later on in life. Many people find a program like this is one of the most rewarding things to do with their life and some even make it a lifetime career. You never know how much you’ll love the region you’re sent to or all of the exciting things you’ll see until you try!

3. Work on A Cruise Ship
Another amazing way to see the world is to work for a cruise ship. They have cruise ships that go all over the world, so you should be able to find one that suits your interests. There’s many major names in the cruise line business too, so you can adapt to your interests here as well. If you’re not cool with being on the wide open sea for long periods, then you might want to consider shorter tours. All the same, when you land a job on a cruise ship you will gain valuable work experience while getting to explore the world. You can choose from a wide range of jobs too, so you won’t have to wind up doing something you absolutely hate. Before long, you may feel like you’re vacationing part time as you’ll have lots of fun on the cruise. Not to mention, with meals and housing covered, you’ll be able to save a whole lot of money while you sail away.

4. Be an Au Pair
One timeless way to see the world while you’re young is to become an au pair. Mostly young women, but some young men have been going abroad to work as an au pair for decades now. There’s many programs to choose from if you’re considering this as an option. However, you should always be careful and do a lot of research before you join a program. Also, make sure to look into reviews over the past few years. Most employers will give you room, board and an allowance for being an au pair, which will allow you to experience the world around you while gaining work experience. If you’re great with children then this may be right up your alley, especially if you feel you can teach children English. You may have to work on learning a new language while you’re there, but this will only help you as you progress in life.

5. Work on a Farm
If you’ve lived in the city of suburbs your whole life, then you may want to change your perspective and find a program that will allow you to work on a farm. Some farms will actually house workers during picking seasons, so this can be a wise choice if you’re planning on doing this domestically. You will learn hard work as well as the value of your time and where your food comes from. Of course, there are also farming programs abroad that allows you to see the world. Many of these are located in the UK, but you can find them in many other places in the world too. You will have to join a program to work on one of these farms, but before you know it you could be leading a whole new life that is sure to change the way you live your day to day life. These programs also offer room and board and are sure to leave you with some free time that will allow you to discover your new surroundings.

6. Pursue a Passion
Gap years are the perfect time to follow your hopes and dreams. If you developed a passion for something in high school, or perhaps you feel like you will enjoy doing something, then now is the time to do it. Gap years may actually be the only time you get to do this type of activity, unless you’re holding out for retirement. So, write the novel, paint the masterpiece or spend your afternoons busking on the side of the street. You might also want to try to sell off some of your work to see if you have a possibility of pursuing your work as a full time job, rather than a hobby. If you’re into photography, then you may try to run your own business for the year. Try to draw in clients and perfect your skills as you learn work experience that will last a lifetime. This time can also be used to shadow someone in a career you’ve had your eye on. This could really help you determine if you’re on the right track, which will change your life forever.

7. Improve Your Community
A gap year is a great time to reflect on yourself, but it can also be the perfect time to make your community a better place. Volunteering for any organization in your community is a great way to spend your time while ensuring you understand just what your community needs. Try spending time at soup kitchens, working in food banks, tutoring children or even building houses. Another great option for young adults is to join the Big Brother and Sister Program. This program will set you up with a child who needs your attention, so you can easily make a difference in a youngster’s life. The more you volunteer, the better you’ll know and understand your community. This could help you lead your own program to help the underprivileged, children, the homeless or elderly. All the work you do will look fantastic on a resume or college application too.

8. Try New Things
There’s no doubt, high school can really drain your free time and leave you longing to learn new things you simply don’t have time for. If you plan on taking a gap year, now is the time to hit the books and learn a whole lot of new things. Many people try to pick up some of the basic things they will need for life later on. For instance, a lot of people who take a gap year choose to use the time to learn how to cook. May if be in a classroom setting or picking up grandma’s favorite recipes. Household basics like sewing, cleaning and keeping up with a home are also great things to pick up. Of course, if you really want to be a successful adult, you may want to work on understanding your finances and how to create budgets. Learning a language is another common gap year task. This is especially the case with countries like Germany offering free tuition. Household basics like sewing, cleaning and keeping up with a home are also great things to pick up. Of course, if you really want to be a successful adult, you may want to work on understanding your finances and how to create budgets.

9. Think About Your Major
A lot of students who go to college directly after high school tend to struggle over their major. This can not only cost you a lot of time, but with tuition always jumping you could be paying a pretty penny every time you swap majors. If you’re taking time off for a gap year, then now is the perfect time to mull over your major. Try to talk to experienced scholars in the field and research more into career prospects. If you have a few ideas, then test out the hypothesis. Try to land an internship in one of the fields or interview someone who works in one. You may also want to try putting the skills into action to see if you have what it takes. The important thing is, you should always think and rethink your options before settling on one.

10. Work
If there’s one thing you can do to better your life during a gap year, it’s to actually find a job and work. This will allow you to save up some money for college, so you won’t have to take out as many loans for when you begin. Keeping your money in savings will help it grow and flourish, which should offer you a nice start. You may even be able to join a company that helps pay their employees college tuition. Work also gives you valuable lessons that will look incredible when you put them down on your resume later on. Work experience can’t be rivaled, which is why it’s important to have some. Of course, working a minimum wage job will also show you how hard it is to get by on such a low paying job. This may give you new inspiration to get out there and go to college at last.

Gap years can be an amazing time for students, so don’t let your budgetary needs stand in your way. These quick ideas will give you plenty of options for your gap year experience, which should prevent you from getting bored while allowing you to better your future. So, let your gap year flourish as there’s lots of tensions that college and the work force will bring.

Keeping up with your kids during the summer time and after school can be really hard, especially if you have to go to work during hours that they would normally be home. Daycares can really be a drain on the family budget and most won’t take children over a certain age. Luckily, there’s lots of nationwide programs that can help you keep your kids happy and busy without forcing you to spend a lot of money. Many of the programs are free, but some will require small deposits for classes or a membership. Despite the cost, you should be able to fit it into your budget without stress. Now, you can move on with your daily business without having to stress over your child.

1. YMCA
The YMCA is probably one of the most iconic programs and can be found all across the nation. Children and teenagers can sign up with their local YMCA and get a lot of benefits. Some of these institutions will actually pick children up from school if need be, but you may have to pay for this service. While at the YMCA, your child will be offered a wide range of activities. Most will have a gym for those who are aiming to workout. There is also typically a swimming pool and courses to help students with their swimming, diving, water aerobics and synchronized swimming skills. Many YMCAs will also have basketball courts and other sports equipment to keep children active and happy. Apart from that, there is typically arts and crafts, a game room and homework help, so your child can stay on track during the summer months or every day after school.

2. Boys and Girls Club
The Boys and Girls Club is a lot like the YMCA in many senses. This club also offers sports, arts and crafts and other activities to keep children occupied in the summer and after school. Many programs will offer transportation for children too, especially when school is in session. Generally, the Boys and Girls Club does charge, but they try to keep their fees incredibly low so that children 6-18 can enjoy the program and better their lives. Many Boy and Girls Clubs do allow children to do certain chores in order to pay off their fees, which shows children responsibility and the value of their time. Of course, this program doesn’t require children to sign in and parents don’t even have to pick up their child as it is not a licensed daycare facility. So, make sure your child follows the rules when it comes to spending time at this facility. Chances are, if your child is signed up for a sports league, it will be run through the Boys and Girls Club, so make sure to check them out if you’re looking for a good place for your kids to hang out.

3. Scouts
One of the leading groups in the country is a variety of scouts. May it be boy scouts, girl scouts, cub scouts, eagle scouts or any other scouting group you come across, your child is sure to have a lot of fun. Scouting groups have been popular in the country for decades as they help children learn a variety of survival and handy skills that improve their lives. Scouting also offers plenty of socialization and the ability to make friends that last a life time. Most scouts meet once a week, but during the summer there are all sorts of fun activities for them to take part in. Some troops will even run fundraisers so their troop can go to scout inspired summer camps, as well as camping trips and other field trips. For a low price, your child should be able to have lots of fun and learn many new things.

4. Colleges
If you’re looking for a great learning environment, then you might want to head to your local community college or university. Many of these higher education institutions offer classes for children too. Some of the colleges have after school programs that help children with their homework and teach them lots of interesting things through science experiments and arts and crafts. Many of the schools will even take in children for a low price to help students who are moving into early education studies. Younger children aren’t the only ones that benefit though as many colleges offer programs to help older students get on the right path to college. Between tutoring and fun projects, your child will begin to think of the college as an exciting place that they love to spend time at.

5. Recreation Centers
Many communities offer a wide variety of recreation centers that may come in handy for your child. Usually, these centers aren’t as intricate as the YMCA, but they do offer a safe place for kids to hang out after school or during the summer months. Usually the recreation center is also responsible for many sports leagues in the community, which will help your child stay busy and active too. Some of these centers will charge for your child to stay with them, whereas others will not, so you may want to call around and ask before making any final decisions. A lot of these recreation centers aren’t designed for younger kids though, but can help junior high and high school students stay entertained when you don’t want them home alone.

6. Churches
More often than not, most churches will have a small daycare going on inside throughout the week. If you have younger children this may be a great option. Generally, churches charge much less than daycare facilities, especially if you are a member of the church. During church services, you can typically leave a baby or toddler in the daycare facility at no cost, which will allow you to enjoy the service. Young children aren’t the only ones who benefit from churches either. If you have older children, there tends to be youth services and youth groups which will bring some fun to the summer and after school. These programs tend to include camps, competitions, games and food, which is a great way to keep older kids happy. Some churches even run volunteer programs children can apply for after school, which will keep everyone busy. Another great aspect of the church in the summer is it offers vacation Bible school for free, which allows kids of all ages to have fun while learning.

7. Library
The library is one of the most valuable resources in any community. Not only can books keep kids busy during the summer and after school, but the library also goes to great lengths in order to bring programs to young readers throughout the year. Most libraries will have a summer reading program which allows kids to get a prize simply for reading a certain number of books or pages. This is great encouragement and will keep kids minds active when they’re not in class. Apart from reading programs, you should also be able to sign your children up for movie hour, story time and a wide selection of arts and crafts as well as games. For some children, these activities can go on all day long. Some, but not all, of libraries offer after school programs with the same concept, which is great for kids who may have to spend time alone after school.

8. Museums
Most people see museums as a place to learn, but many only see the exhibits displayed. There’s probably a lot more to your local museum then you realize. It doesn’t matter if it’s an art, history or science museum as each will offer an assortment of activities and classes to make anyone eager to learn happy. Many of these courses are designed for children, which is sure to make things easier in the summer months. Your child can sign up for all sorts of classes at a low price, which can help keep everyone occupied during your work hours. Some museums will even offer weekly classes for those who want to come in after school. These longer courses are a lot like college courses for kids, but offer fun experiments in a certain field or medium. Generally, the classes won’t cost you an arm and a leg either, which is always a bonus. Your museums website should have all the information you need to sign up your student.

9. Big Brother/Sister Program
If you’re a single parent, then you should be able to enroll your child in the Big Brother/Sister Program. Some families with both parents can even enroll, depending on your needs. This program is great for young children as it offers them a role model that will take them to do fun activities during the summer and on the weekends. Big brothers and sisters are screened to ensure they will provide a positive influence in your child’s life. Many are college students who want to do their part for the next generation. Usually when your child is paired with a big brother or sister, they will be able to get to know your child and plan activities based on their needs and desires. Many of these volunteers will also help children out with homework, while working to build confidence in school and other aspects of life.

10. Your Child’s School
One of the best resources around may be right under your nose. That is, your child’s school. A lot of schools have started to implement after school programs for younger children. These programs often include tutoring, activities and a safe place to hang out for a while. Some of these programs will cost you money, but many schools simply require a sign up for your child to take part. If your child is in an activity at school, then chances are they are already staying after school at no charge to you. Activities like band, athletics and drama often keep kids after so they can practice outside of the schools learning hours. Summer school is also a fantastic option for most children. A lot of kids will lose 2 months’ worth of learning when the final bell rings for summer. By putting your child in summer school, they will not only keep their knowledge, but will also get ahead of the curve. High school students who take summer school on their own accord may even be able to graduate sooner or work on college credits.

When it comes to your child’s life after school or during the summer, you shouldn’t have to stress out about their whereabouts. These ten options will give you alternatives that will keep your kids safe while allowing them to expand their minds and have some fun. Although some of these programs do charge, you’ll find you wind up saving money by using them in comparison to other basic childcare options.

Summer time is the perfect time to throw together a themed party. Nothing says hot weather and fun quite like a luau. Luckily, luau parties don’t have to cost a small fortune either. There’s lots of great ways you can host a luau without forcing you to pour your entire paycheck into the fun. In fact, the less you pay for the party the more fun you may have. So, this summer create the biggest party of all when you invite your inner circle over for an exciting luau. Surely, people will be talking about your amazing party for months to come just as you’ll be celebrating the huge savings you made.

1. DIY Flowers
One of the biggest aspects of a luau is the gorgeous flowers that surround the party area and the guests. You can spend a whole lot of money to buy real flowers to spruce up the place, but there’s other options that are a whole lot cheaper. Making flowers out of paper can be one easy step that will help make the whole family feel like a part of the party while also saving you quite a bit of money. There’s a whole lot of templates available to suit your needs and you can use a whole lot of colors to liven up the setup. Once you make you flowers you can add stems with pipe cleaners to make them perfect for women’s hair accessories. You can also add yarn to string them up around the place to add that special touch to the party. Best of all, you can turn the flowers into a lei, which is sure to be a hit!

2. Grass Skirts
Another important component to the whole luau theme is the grass skirt, which is sure to make your guests feel like the real deal. You can make grass skirts out of a whole lot of different items. One of the more common items is raffia ribbon which can be purchased in many different colors. Of course, if you can’t find any colors other than brown, the material is very easy to dye so you can create an assortment of colors. If you don’t have raffia rope then get creative, it’s your project! Another cute idea is to make mini grass skirts for your beverages. This will add a special touch that kids will love and is an easy craft for children to work on while you’re setting up for the party.

3. Use Fruit
Nothing makes a party great quite like transforming your food into décor. When planning your menu, try to add a lot of fruit to the mix, especially when it comes to things like pineapples and other seasonal fruits. Shopping seasonal will cut down on how much you spend, so you can splurge in other areas of the party. If you add the fruit to tables as décor items, then your party will look amazing too. You can slowly remove the fruits as you need them to eat, or you can let the guests pick out the fruits they want straight from the décor. Having a lot of fruit around will also allow you to make an assortment of mixed drinks, which are sure to keep everyone happy. You can add the fruit to kids drinks too, to make the children feel excited about their special beverages.

4. Food
When it comes to splurging on your party, you’ll probably find that a lot of the money is going to go straight to food. There’s a few ways you can remedy this problem though. For starters, make sure to buy foods that you can use in multiple dishes. This will allow you more versatility in cooking, while still keeping the budget low and affordable. One great choice is coconut water or coconut milk. These items can be used to create your own special drinks, while also adding to meals and desserts. Plus, the coconut flavor will add to the theme of the party, which is sure to leave everyone impressed. One popular dish to keep in mind is coconut rice, which can be used with different meats and vegetables or for picky eaters who want to keep their meal simple. You should consider buying foods that are in season too, like items you’d typically barbecue.

5. Drinks
Quenching your guests thirst can also be a bit of a problem for your budget, as this seems to be one of the most expensive purchases. When you plan, you should consider buying drinks in bulk. For instance, beer and soda can be purchased in large portions, which will save you a lot more money. If you plan on serving mixed drinks, then choose one form of alcohol and stick with. You can mix the alcohol with fruits you’re using for décor or that are part of your menu. For those who don’t want to drink, try to make a delicious punch or lemonade that will make the guests feel like they’re on a tropical island. You can even add pineapples to the punch to give it the amazing tropical feel that’s worthy of your luau.

6. Pull Out the Holiday Lights
Creating a fun and well-lit environment can really transform your luau. There’s a whole lot of things you can buy for a luau, but there’s really no need to spend a bundle on these items. One of the best assets you have in regards to lighting up your party is all of the holiday lights that are collecting dust in your storage area. These lights can easily be strung out to create the ambiance you need to encourage everyone to have a blast. If you want to take things up a notch, then make your own light covers. These can be made with simple paper using a basic tutorial online. Once you have the light cover up and ready to go, you can pack the lights into the cover and enjoy the way they look. Different colored lights will add to the fun too, so don’t disregard Halloween or Christmas lights if you have them on hand. With this simple trick, your party with look ten times cooler, which is sure to make an impression.

7. Grab a Playlist
There’s plenty of luau inspired soundtracks out there that you can buy to make your party seem authentic, but there’s really no need to spend money in this area. If you make a simple search online, you can find a whole lot of playlists that will suit the mood of a luau. Streaming services are one of the best ways to begin the fun though. With a simple search, you should run across a playlist or more that you can put on to set the mood. If your streaming service is commercial free then you can even worry less about the entertainment. Of course, if you don’t want to fumble through music throughout the party, you can easily combine a series of playlists that will keep the fun going for hours on end. Your favorite music can also be played during the luau without ruining the mood though, so don’t be afraid to mix in some of your dance music to help keep the party lively.

8. Crafts
Keep the entertainment going by setting up a craft area to help everyone stay busy while they enjoy the party. This can be especially important when it comes to kids as they may not want to mingle or enjoy the same activities as the adults. There’s some great crafts that will suit the theme though. For instance, if you gather a bunch of toilet rolls then you can have the kids turn each one into a little tikis to take home. Kids will love using their imaginations to create their own tiki. You can even string yarn through it to turn it into a necklace. Another option is to have the kids make their own flowers or grass skirts. This may take someone helping them out, but it will be a lot of fun and they’ll love showing off their skills to everyone at the party. Another option is simple bracelets. You can set out strings to braid and other accessories so the kids can make a keepsake they can wear all year long.

9. Games
When it comes to a party, you can’t really forget the games or else people may be bored out of their minds. Luckily, luaus make it easy to set up games for everyone. One of the most common is limbo, which should suit people of all ages. You don’t really need a lot for this game as you can use a rake, broom or other long stick as the limbo pole. Hula hoop competitions are another fun option that will have everyone cracking up and having the time of their lives. If there’s a lot of kids at the party, you may want to plan out a treasure hunt to help keep them busy. You can buy chocolate gold coins for next to nothing, which should satisfy the kids needs for treasure at the end of the hunt. Finally, a water balloon fight is an obvious choice for the summer heat, which is sure to cool everyone down.

10. Hula Lessons
A great way to surprise everyone is to hire a hula teacher for the day. You can get everyone dancing in no time, which should keep the guests happy for hours. The best thing is, if you shop on social media coupon sites then you can find a great Groupon to help with the costs of the lessons. Of course, not hiring a teacher is also an option. You can easily find lessons online and direct your guests to follow the instructional video. Kids and adults alike should have a blast working on their dance moves, which is bound to make the party a hit.

Creating a luau doesn’t have to be a budgetary nightmare. With a few simple tips, you’ll host the party of a lifetime without having to spend a whole lot of money. With these tips, you’ll be able to keep everyone fed and entertained, which is sure to make you feel like the hostess of the year.

Whether you loved Amazon Prime Day last year, hated it or simply didn’t experience it, it’s that time of the year to gear up for the sale once again. Last year’s sale provided a lot of love and hate responses, so you can probably assume that this year Amazon will step it up a notch based on that feedback. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to go into red alert. Amazon Prime Day shouldn’t send your bank account into the red or force you to push your budget a little too far. With a few simple tricks, you should be able to maintain your cool during Amazon Prime Day, so you won’t feel flustered when you see all of the lightning deals flash on the screen.

1. Consider a Free Trial
There’s only one thing you have to have in order to enjoy Amazon Prime Day. That is, you have to be a member of Amazon Prime. This service costs you about $100, unless you qualify for one of the discounted accounts. If you don’t have $100 to throw onto another subscription service right now, then don’t fret. You can always give Amazon Prime a try for absolutely free. In order to draw in new customers, Amazon Prime offers a monthly free-trial, which will allow you to explore all of the features it offers. As long as you sign up for your free pass before July 14th, you should be able to check all of the Prime Day deals without having to stress over the extra cost. Of course, getting a taste of Amazon Prime may have you holding onto your subscription, so you may want to ease up on the spending in case this does happen. Of course, if you aren’t impressed you can always cancel without worrying about losing a penny.

2. Use Your Shopping Cart
When it comes to Prime Day, the lightning deals are sure to get the adrenaline pumping, especially if you see something you’ve wanted for an incredibly long time. However, the rush of shopping like this often doesn’t give you enough time to weigh your options or shop around like most online shopping allows. In this case, simply add the item you want into your cart. You will have a total of 15 minutes to choose whether or not you’d like to buy this item. This will help prevent you from missing out on the item completely, especially if it’s popular and sells out in mere minutes. During the 15 minutes, take some time to check out reviews, look up other prices and generally think over whether or not you really want the item. As long as you check out of the shopping cart before the 15 minutes are up then the item is all yours and you can feel satisfied that you did some research before taking the leap.

3. Follow Social Media
In this day and age, you don’t really have to spend every waking hour checking out the sales. When it comes to things like Prime Day, social media is pretty much going to be your best friend. Luckily, Amazon has quite a few social media pages to follow so you won’t miss a beat if you’re really looking to score a big deal. Generally, Amazon will announce their bigger deals on the social media pages so that fans can have their apps or the website up and running when the item is revealed. You may want to pay attention to social media sites a few days prior to the sales too, this will come in handy because there will be announcements and hints as to some of the sales that will be happening. This will give you a better idea of if you really want to shop or not.

4. Look for Coupons
Believe it or not, but you can and absolutely should use coupons on Amazon Prime Day. If you can find a coupon that can make your already cheap purchase any cheaper then go for it! You may want to spend some time looking for coupons before the big day though as if you leave it too long you may end up empty handed. Manufacture’s websites as well as rebate sites may be two of the prime places to look when you find out the type of items that will be on sale. If you can find a rebate for your new television set, then you’ll be in great hands as you check out and save a whole lot of money. Amazon itself will have some coupons going on, especially when it comes to the whole subscribe and buy options they offer, so don’t skip out on this option if it’s something you regularly purchase.

5. Gift Cards
If there’s one thing you’re going to want to go after during this time of celebration, it is definitely the gift cards. During this time, Amazon offers you a $10 credit when you buy a certain dollar amount in gift cards. This is practically giving you money in the long run. However, this reward is mostly for tangible gift cards, so you won’t be able to spend money on gift cards and turn around and spend the gift cards on your purchases for the day. All the same, you can always give out your gift cards for birthday and holiday presents, which will probably save you a whole lot of money in the long run anyway. Plus, if you buy enough gift cards, you’ll have some pretty amazing credit to enjoy on sales later in the year, perhaps even for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

6. Don’t Overdo it
One problem many people face when they see a flash sale like this is they shop just because there’s cheap items to buy. This won’t do you any favors, especially if you buy into some of the sales that Amazon used last year. For instance, many people felt the need to buy a chef hat, just because it was pretty cheap. Even if there is a lot of items you love on the deals, you should still pace yourself and not buy too much. After all, your budget will still be in play for household goods and other bills. One tactic here is to not buy items within a couple of hours of one another. This will get you off the site so you don’t look at everything that is on sale, which should help you cut back on the spending even more. Once you begin to shop in spurts instead of checking out every deal, then you should be able to calm down over the prices and make choices that will actually benefit you. Of course, another problem here is many people will go off and buy an item just because they think they need to participate in the sale. There’s never a need to do this, especially with sales like this. If you don’t see something you like, then move the budget you allotted over for another sale.

7. Enter Contest
You can be a big winner on Amazon Prime Day without even spending a penny, which is pretty awesome. One way to do this is to stream music from Amazon Prime on Prime Day. This won’t cost you a cent and will allow you to explore the library the service offers. You may even get really into it and switch to Amazon Prime as your daily streaming network. Of course, if you don’t really have time to do this, all you have to do is stream a single song on the day and you’ll be entered into the sweepstake without having to sign up for anything. Another contest going on is a Photo Contest. Basically, all you have to do to enter is post a picture on Prime’s photo storage of an image that shows how Prime makes your life easier. Equip the photo with the proper hashtag and you could be well on your way to winning!

8. Make a List
One of the quickest ways to get in trouble on Prime Day is to sit around and browse the sales with no rhyme or reason. This allows impulse buying to kick in, which could mean spending a lot more money than you’d ever expect to. One remedy for this is to make a list. Simply write down the items you’d like to buy if they go on sale. This will allow you to look through the categories for specific items, which will make temptations easier to bypass. If you really want to keep it simple, then go through Amazon and add items you’d like to buy onto a wish list. You can surf the list throughout the day to see if any ended up getting a price reduction. This will prevent you from even looking at the lightening deals, which could be a good thing.

9. Set a Budget
Another major no-no when it comes to sales like Prime Day is pulling out your credit card without ever working on the budget. This can be pretty dangerous and may force you to spend way more than you would have ever imagined. So, before Prime Day rolls around, make sure you sit down and work on your household’s budget. This will give you a grand idea of where your finances stand when it comes to splurging on frivolous things. You should also take into consideration your credit card’s payments and interest when you choose to shop with plastic. If you’re sure you have the money to spend then have fun, but you’ll be glad you took a quick break to make sure the numbers all checked out before you started your shopping excursion. Of course, if you have unlimited spending power, you may want to put a cap on the amount you can spend, just to play it safe.

10. Amazon Products
Needless to say, with Amazon Prime hosting a sale, you can pretty much count on any and all Amazon products enjoying a decrease in price during this time. Luckily, there’s lots of amazing Amazon products to check out when you’re shopping and many can replace some of the other big name brands that cost nearly double the price. The Kindle will probably see a wide variety of discounts during the sale from the oldest to the newest of models, which may be something you might want to stock up on, especially if you have book worms on your holiday list. Another great Amazon item this year is the Amazon Fire Stick, which allows you to use all of your favorite streaming services without forcing you to use a computer or gaming console. That’s only just the beginning when it comes to Amazon products though, so make sure you look around to see if there’s a match for you.

Amazon Prime Day can really spice up a summer that leaves you longing for the holiday madness. Of course, the one-day sale can also leave you scrambling with your finances. With these simple tricks, you should be able to make the most out of the sale without going too far with your wallet. Just keep in mind that not all sales are worth the high credit card bill, especially when the items are merely so-so.

As a kid, you probably dreamed of having a second Christmas in the middle of the year. Of course, if you lived in Australia, you may have actually had the chance to celebrate Christmas in July. More recently, many people have decided to pick up this holiday as a way to cool down during the long summer months. Christmas in July doesn’t have to mean another long spending and pricey shopping spree though. In fact, with a few simple tricks you can enjoy Christmas in July on the tightest of budgets. So, don’t stress about the tinsel or the presents, because this Christmas in July is sure to warm your heart without the price tag.

1. Handmade Gifts Only
When it comes to Christmas in July, there’s really no reason to go overboard on the gift giving extravaganza. Rather, you should try to keep things as simple as possible. One easy way to do this is to tell everyone to make their own gifts, rather than spending money on them. This is a great way to keep the kids entertained during summer break and will show them how to put a lot of heart and thought into all of their gifts. You can keep the gifts holiday oriented, like a snow globe made out of a mason jar, or you can base them on the person’s personal interest. The sky is really the limit here, so don’t feel like you have to meet holiday standards. It could even be as simple as having the kids sit down and color a page for their grandparents, or making homemade cards. There’s lots of ideas to choose from online and if you base your idea around the craft supplies you already have then you should be good to go.

2. DIY Decor
Christmas in July doesn’t have to mean pulling out all of your holiday decor for one day in July. Instead, try utilizing the summer decor that you already have up. You can easily make a paper Christmas tree and add it to a beach scene for a cute little decorative item. Another option is to make paper ornaments to hang from a palm tree. You can even hold a contest to see which clever Christmas twist the kids can add to the items that are already in the home. You may be surprised as to what they come up with. Apart from that, you won’t need stockings or anything like that so you shouldn’t have to worry about this type of decor. You could always print out pictures of Santa getting a tan though, for a laugh that the kids will adore.

3. Holiday Show Marathon
One thing that truly makes the holidays special, especially for kids, is all of the holiday shows that air. Rather than spending a fortune on this holiday, it may be wise to take the day to watch all of your favorite holiday shows. If you own them then that will make your life a lot easier. However, if you don’t then there’s still a way to enjoy the fun without spending a fortune. Often, streaming networks will hold onto holiday shows throughout the year, so you could be able to watch some of your favorites for nothing but the subscription costs. Other than that, some TV stations even take part in the Christmas in July extravaganza, such as ABC family. You may also have some luck finding your favorite shows in the clearance bin at department stores. This activity should keep everyone nice and cool too, which is a must in the hot July sun.

4. Christmas Clearance
Another cheap way to enjoy this holiday that may actually save you money in the long run is to shop holiday clearance. A lot of stores aren’t on board with the Christmas in July concept yet, but you may want to look around just in case. Your best bet here it to shop online stores. Usually, these stores will reduce the discount on their holiday decor during the month of July. This will allow you to get some amazing items at a price that you will never believe to be true. If you’re shy on any Christmas items at all this may be the best time in the season to grab larger decorative items like yard blow ups and artificial Christmas trees. Many custom and non-custom holiday cards will be on sale too, so you might want to beat the rush and order now. This will also give you a chance to start filling out the cards so you won’t feel rushed during the busy shopping season.

5. Sales
Although it isn’t particularly related to Christmas in July, there are lots of sales available during the month of July to choose from. This may put you in the holiday spirit already, which will make your Christmas in July feel a little more like the real deal. Amazon Prime is hosting its annual Prime Day, which may make you feel like you’re shopping on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Even Walmart and Target are getting in on the game to compete, so make sure to take advantage of these sales too. With any luck, you may get a head start on your holiday shopping, which is sure make your life a bit easier when the busy shopping season arrives. Of course, make sure to pace yourself when shopping too as you won’t want to go over your budget or buy items that your kids no longer want by the holiday season.

6. Be Charitable
Just like the holiday season, it’s a great time to get out into the world and share your compassion with those in need. Luckily, it’s a lot easier to find volunteer work during the summer months. You can easily try out some of the work that you would have in the winter, like a soup kitchen and food pantries, as there will be less people in these jobs thanks to the other open opportunities. Summer brings lots of outdoor work to be done too. You can sign up to build homes with Habitat for Humanity, or you can pick up garbage, plant trees or simply mow your elderly neighbor’s lawn. Some locations will even let you volunteer as a lifeguard if you can pass all of the required tests. You may also want to try visiting nursing homes or hospitals to bring a smile to some of the patients faces. Last but not least, donating is always a great option that will help out charitable organizations and those who need a little help.

7. Community Events
Although Christmas in July isn’t widely celebrated yet, many communities are starting to jump on board and organizing events. If you can find a local even this could be a great way to celebrate the holiday with your family without forcing you to pay a whole lot. A lot of communities, or simply just churches, will host a potluck to bring everyone together for a special message, which might be a nice way to socialize and enjoy new forms of food. Some places will even set up little Santa villages, so the kids can check in with the big man mid-way through the year. This can really boost positive behaviors in kids and reminds them they should be good throughout the year, because Santa can always stop in to check out what they’re up to. If there’s no community events in your area, then you may want to consider starting your own. This can be cheaply done with the help of the community and will allow you to show some holiday spirit off.

8. Barbecue Instead
Since it’s Christmas in July, you may want to whip up a roast meal with all of the fixings, which can be a bit of a problem in the summer heat. For starters, the food you would typically get in the winter time isn’t going to be in season, which means the prices may be out of this world. Another downside to fixing up this meal is it will mean using your oven to do most of the work. This tends to heat up the house quite a bit, which means your air conditioning will be forced to run longer and will cost you even more money. Instead of going the traditional route, fire up your grill and get to work. You can fix up all of your favorite barbecue items to enjoy as the price should be much better for the items. You’ll also be able to get great deals on seasonal produce, which will make the entire meal taste even better.

9. Plan Holiday Travels
With the actual holiday season being a few months away now, you may want to take this time to work on holiday plans. You can talk about where you’d like go and what you’d like to do, which will give you a goal to work towards. If you can, you may want to start thinking about booking a few things too. Snagging airline tickets this early will allow you to get an exciting deal, which will save you lots of money in the long run. Not to mention, working on getting a hotel secured can also save you from having to stay somewhere that you’d rather not because of over-booking. It’s also a great idea to get your leave request in for work too, so you can feel confident your time off will be secured and you and your family will be able to have a good time without sweating the small stuff.

10. Start Saving
Another great thing to do to mark the holiday is to begin a bit of savings for the actual Christmas shopping. This will allow you to have a bit of money already set aside, so you can enjoy a little less burden when it comes to shopping for all of your holiday items. There’s lots of ways to put back money that won’t leave your tight budget feeling even tighter. For instance, you can start emptying you change into a jar. Before you know it, the change will add up, which is sure to give you a pretty good amount to work with. You might also want to start up a bad habit jar, like a swear jar. Every member of the family will have to put in money for doing something bad. You’ll be surprised how fast the jar will fill up and how quickly people will begin to alter their behavior. You may also mark this time as a time to move more of your paycheck into savings, so you’ll be ready when the holiday rush begins.

Christmas in July doesn’t have to be as pricey as your regularly scheduled Christmas fun, but it can be a great way to get family together in order to enjoy one another’s company. With a few simple tricks, you can turn this Christmas in July into a celebration the family is sure to want to repeat year after year. So, don’t let tight budgets stand in your way, because there’s still inexpensive ways to have fun during Christmas in July.

Between the price of keeping your house bearably cool and keeping the kids entertained during summer break, you may find that expenses in the month of July are way more than they should be. Luckily, you don’t have to worry about some aspects of the month as July brings lots of fun elements to your shopping experience that won’t cost an arm and a leg. With these ten shopping suggestions, you’ll be able to get the things you need and some things you never knew you needed without straying from your budget. So, don’t let the rising heat get to you, instead enjoy some retail therapy whenever you need a break from summer blues.

1. Christmas in July
Just when you thought you wouldn’t have to worry about the holidays for several months, July rolls around with Christmas in July shopping. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to buy presents for anyone, unless you just want to. Rather, Christmas in July brings offers on holiday décor, Christmas trees and all the fixings, as well as music and movies. Best of all, these items are displayed at a clearance price so you can prep for the holiday at an incredibly low price. This is great for anyone who may not have all the supplies they need or want for the holiday, or for people who may be starting out on their own before the holiday arrive. No matter what the reason behind shopping these sales, it may actually cool you down and allow you to brighten your spirits as your browse all of the cute holiday items. Now is also a great time to go ahead and grab holiday cards, or order personal cards so you won’t end up in a bind filling them all out in December. Of course, you may also want to consider checking out Amazon Prime Day too, which could leave you with the Black Friday buzz you miss all year.

2. Baseball Supplies
A lot of baseball leagues’ seasons are either coming to a close or right in the middle of the season, which means baseball supplies aren’t really a huge demand anymore. This might be a great time to stock up on a new mitt, bat and some baseballs to help your star practice during the offseason. If your child is in college or high school then now may be the time to grab supplies for their team at school, so you won’t end up struggling to find their size when all of the other parents are shopping too. Bags to store all of the gear in will be a great buy this month as well, so make sure you’re covered for the season next time it rolls around. Baseball clothing with also be on sale this month, may it be jerseys or t-shirts for your favorite team or uniforms and cleats to play in.

3. Home Decor
Now is a great time to grab a few new items to give your home an extra special look. May it be decorating for summer or simply adding a few vases or paintings to the home, the month of July is privy to some pretty awesome deals. Of course, you may want to take your shopping experience online for this one as there will be so many deals both locally and online. These sales are largely thanks to the wedding season, which is spiking during this time of the year. So, if you have someone you know that is tying the knot, it might be wise to grab them a little something on sale too. It will save you money while still presenting them with a great gift that they can admire for years to come.

4. Ice Cream
Luckily for all of us, July is National Ice Cream Month, which will allow everyone to buy their favorite treats to cool down at a lower price. This is sure to help out with your budget, especially when it comes to treating the kids. It doesn’t matter if you plan on buying ice cream from your favorite grocery store or if you want to go out with the kids and have a huge sundae together, there should be sales everywhere you look. Don’t worry, non-dairy ice cream should be looped in for those who are lactose intolerant. Some ice cream shops may even host freebies to help bring in business, so don’t be afraid to ask or look around to see if anyone is offering something delicious for your family. You might want to branch out more than just grocery stores and restaurants though. Many department stores will have discounts on supplies to make ice cream, which could help you save even more money as the heat rises and your family craves a bit of a sweet treat.

5. Patriotic Items
Summer is the time for patriotic holidays that fill people with joy. Between Memorial Day, Flag Day and the Fourth of July, there will be lots of options when it comes to finding patriotic items to purchase. Once the Fourth of July comes and goes, all of these items should make their way onto the clearance rack, which is the perfect time for you to stock up on supplies you know you’re going to need for next summer. Whether it’s buying cute indoor or exterior décor or finding a new flag to display, the month of July is the time to do it. This may also be a great time to buy items for the veterans in your life as there should be branch specific items on sale too. This will cut down on your holiday and birthday spending while still allowing you to buy a gift that is thoughtful.

6. Late Season Travel
If you haven’t secured vacation plans just yet, then you may want to hop online in July and grab some travel plans for August. Late season travel will be a great price in the month of July, so you won’t have to stress out about not getting in your much needed vacation time at a decent price. This travel will allow you to grab airline tickets at a price that hasn’t been seen all summer, which is definitely a bonus. Apart from that, you should be able to score a pretty nice hotel at a price that won’t give you nightmares. Since most people have gotten their travel out of the way, you’ll be ready to enjoy the sights without having to maneuver your way through all of the crowds. Of course, you may not want to wait too long on your travel plans though as deals like this can easily be swept up in a hurry if you’re planning on heading to a popular destination.

7. PC Games
With summer here, there’s a good chance your kids have hit a wall of boredom that is probably driving you crazy. Don’t stress too much, although you probably have quite a few activities planned there’s bound to be some down time. PC games are a great way to keep kids entertained, no matter their age. Luckily, the month of July will see lots of PC game sales, so you can get just about any type of game, including educational, at a decent price. Steam hosts their big annual event during the month of July, which is a great time to find some pretty amazing deals on games that are both big brand or simple puzzle variety. Many other gaming platforms will host sales to compete too, so don’t forget to browse around to see if you can find something up your alley.

8. Swimwear
Summer is only just beginning, but the sales on swimwear are already starting to hit their peak. Now may be the perfect time to stock up on items like bathing suits for the rest of the season or even next year. Swimwear always seems to have a short shelf life and new fashions are always coming out, so check out your local store as much as possible to see if you can find something that suits you. This is also a great time to grab suits for next year for the kids. Make sure to shop a size or two up so they’ll still fit. You may also want to avoid cute characters, just in case they aren’t quite as cool next year. Once you have your swimwear then check out beach towels, swim shoes and goggles to make sure you cover all grounds during your shopping adventures. With all of these sales, next summer shouldn’t be a problem in regards to shopping.

9. Air Conditioners
With the heat rising, you may be under the impression that air conditioners costs will be too. This isn’t the case in July though as many businesses see the escalating heat as a great way to make some sales. So, you might want to call around and see what kind of deal you can get on an air conditioning unit, as well as installation. Just because an air conditioner is on sale doesn’t mean you should take the leap and buy it though. In fact, it may be wise to do a bit of research before you take the plunge. Make sure you know just how much your air conditioner is going to cost you, so you won’t even up with buyer’s remorse when things are said and done. If you can find an Energy Star unit then you’ll be on the right track and you may even be able to claim it on your taxes. Remember, don’t let the heat cloud your judgement when shopping for air conditioning.

10. Grills and Accessories
There’s still plenty of the season to host a barbecue with your loved ones, so deals on grills may be right up your alley. Even though the season isn’t technically over, many stores are hoping to get rid of their grill stock before the autumn months set in and new grills arrive. This works to your advantage as having a grill can really help you save money during the summer months. If you want to save even more money check the clearance racks to see if there’s any grills there too. These should be marked down even more and will allow you to save even more money. Some stores will even sell slightly damaged grills for an incredible price too, so don’t be afraid to ask about this or floor models. You should be able to find lots of amazing deals on grilling accessories too. Cooking utensils may be a must, but you should also check out rotisseries, pizza ovens and other amazing tools to make your grill even more convenient.

The month of July is sure to leave you feeling amazing after you see all of the fantastic deals. With the summer heat peaking, you’ll enjoy taking some time out of your summer schedule to check out some great deals and to grab some items that will make you fall in love with the summer months again. Between Christmas in July and a brand new grill, you may even find your new happy place.