Summer can be packed full of fun things that distract you from your financial goals. In the midst of all that fun, it can be easy to lose sight of you budget.

The temptation to spend a little extra here, or there, is common—but that temptation can lead to overspending.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your summer, while being kind to your budget.

Try a Staycation

This summer, trade in you costly vacation for an exciting adventure close to home. Rediscover the wonders of Central Oregon and unleash that inner tourist while visiting this vibrant area where we work, live, and play.

Central Oregon is the PNW’s play ground and if you’ve never taken advantage of our local attractions, now may be the time. Have you visited the High Desert Museum or Lava Lands Visitor Center—how about floating the Deschutes River? Test your endurance hiking the South Sisters, or Misery Ridge at Smith Rock. Are you a music lover? Check out the dozens of free concert series in the area (see our calendar for details). We live in an amazing area and its all within reach!

Kids Play

Entertaining the kiddos during the summer break can be expensive. But fun activities that won’t break the budget do actually exist. If you’re looking to keep the kids occupied, head to the nearest discount store or garage sale and buy some low-cost toys and games. Check with the local recreation center and libraries, they can be a great resource for no-cost activities for kids of all ages. Or you could get together with other parents to plan special outings such as sports meetups or playdates at someone’s house. Kids can still have a great time socializing with their friends and learning new things without you breaking the bank to give them a fun summer. 

Cool your air conditioning costs

Air conditioning is one of the biggest expenses over the summer months. Did you know you can save 10 percent a year on your cooling bills by setting your thermostat just seven to 10 degrees higher for eight hours a day? You can also save by doing simple things like closing the blinds, using a fan, getting a programmable thermostat or cleaning your air vents. You should also look around doors and windows for gaps or cracks you could caulk in order to avoid letting cold air out and warm air into your home. 

Leave the car in the garage

Take advantage of those longer days and sunny rays and switch to walking or riding your bike (check out the links above for amazing trail options). Making this change will save at the gas pump, and free up money for other things you want to do this summer.

Cash in your credit card rewards

Thanks to reward points, using a credit card to pay for summer fun can definitely be a bonus. For example, with Mid Oregon Everyday Rewards VISA you receive a point for every $1 and double points for gas and groceries: $1,000 gas/groceries = 2,000 points; $500 miscellaneous purchases = 500 points. Total of 2,500 points = $25 in prepaid gift cards or cash! Cha-ching.

By following these simple tips, hopefully you can make sure you don’t overspend during this season while still enjoying all the fun that summer has to offer. Remember, summer is about quality time together with family and friends—not just the receipts and souvenirs you collect along the way.

If you do travel outside of Central Oregon, take advantage of all the travel services Mid Oregon offers through digital banking like, notifications, alerts and letting us know that you are traveling for extra security on you debit and credit cards.