With layoffs, bank closures and inflation, financial tensions remain high for many Americans heading into the summer. In a fall 2022 survey conducted by The Harris Poll for the American Psychological Association, 83% of adults said inflation was a source of stress, and 56% said they and/or their family had to make different choices in the last month because they didn’t have enough money.

PIVOT TO A POSITIVE MINDSET

In the face of canceled summer plans, Rob Bertman, a family budgeting expert and certified financial planner in Missouri, suggests flipping your mindset from disappointment to opportunity. Use the moment to talk about money decisions with your partner or kids.

“I think it’s always good for kids to see that their parents are trying to learn and get better,” he says.

With children, Bertman says to avoid language like “we can’t afford it” or “it’s too expensive” because that can lead to a scarcity mindset. Instead, he suggests reframing the difficult choice as one that benefits the family in the long run.

The key to this attitude shift is not losing sight of your priorities. What you’re looking for, ultimately, is to make memories with people you love. While vacations seem primed for those frame-worthy moments, sometimes the things that matter most happen in your own backyard.

REDUCE THE COST OF ACTIVITIES

Summer is prime time for free events, but you’ll have to put in a little work to find cheap events in your area. Even still, having things to look forward to on your calendar can be a big emotional lift.

A membership to a zoo, park, aquarium or museum could pay off in multiple visits all summer long. In addition, it’s a great way to get out of the house and enjoy the weather — or escape the heat, depending on where you live.

AAA members can get discounted tickets to concerts, movies, sporting events and amusement parks. And don’t forget your local library. Some offer free “experience passes” to gardens, museums, zoos and parks.