July Budget: 6 Things You Don't Want to Forget

Updated on 6/19/24

A list of common expenses to include in your July budget categories

July is my favorite month! I love the summer heat and soaking in the sun. I may also be a little biased since it’s also my birthday month, as well as our anniversary month.

Below I will list some common budget categories for July.

How to Start Your July Budget

Before we get into specific categories you should consider for your July Budget, let’s briefly go over the type of budget you should use.

I suggest the zero-based budget. A zero-based budget simply means monthly income minus expenses equals zero. You’re accounting for every dollar you plan to spend that month based on the income you have coming in. Most of your budget will be the same from month to month but each month also bring some unique expenses that you may want to consider.

1. Independence Day

The 4th of July is the kickoff to summer in America and is often celebrated with family gatherings and BBQ’s. If you are planning on a holiday picnic with the family, be sure to kick up the food budget. Here are some tips on saving on groceries.

It may also bring some extra activities such as carnivals. Those extra coins can add up quickly for those carnival rides so don’t forget about your entertainment category for July.

2. Vacation

Summer is a popular time for vacations since the weather is nicer and school is out. When planning your summer vacation consider costs for hotels, entertainment, food, gas or flights. It helps to do a little research in the beginning to compare prices.

3. Pool Supplies

Pool owners know that they can become pretty costly to maintain so don’t forget to reflect pool chemicals, new water toys or any replacement parts this month. You will also want to consider the extra electricity being used for running the pool filter.

4. Summer Recreation

Summer recreation can come in many forms such as youth sports, concerts, state park fees, amusement parks, trips to the zoo, golfing, etc. I try to look for the best deals on these.

For example, New York State Parks have gate fees between $6 to $10 per vehicle. Some of them may waive entry after a certain time in the evening though, which is when we usually try to go.

If you love going to the zoo then a membership might be more economical in the long run. After a few visits it basically pays for itself and the membership is good for a year.

5. Christmas Savings

Christmas in July? No, I’m talking about the one in December.

The sun is out and the last thing you probably want to think about is Christmas (I know I don’t) but this is also a good time to start saving for Christmas if you haven’t done so already. Saving a little each month will help you in December so it’s not so overwhelming and the holiday (money) hangover, aka getting that credit card bill in January. Eeek!

6. Back to School Supplies

I feel silly for even thinking about back to school supplies in July since in New York we are just getting out of school at the end of June. But the truth is you will see all the back to school sales in stores during July. Plus, I know most of the country goes back to school in August. And if you wait too long you might not get everything you need.

Making Your July Budget Work For You

Having a July budget will give you peace of mind knowing you can enjoy your summer without worrying about money!

July Budget: 6 Things You Don’t Want to Forget