Summer is all sunshine and spontaneity… until your wallet starts overheating. Between rising prices and financial fatigue, a lot of Americans are still tightening up instead of turning up.
To get the real picture, we surveyed thousands of MoneyLion users on their summer spending plans. The results say a lot about where we are (and aren’t) dropping our dollars this year. Join in on the conversations and learn with us by joining MoneyLion for free!
Most people are sticking to the script
When asked over 1,000 people if they planned to spend more or less this summer, and the majority said they’re holding steady. But nearly a third are hitting pause altogether.
- 59.7% are sticking to their usual budget
- 27.9% are freezing spending entirely
- Only 12.4% plan to spend more and treat themselves
So if it feels like everyone else is splurging, don’t sweat it — most folks are staying pretty frugal this year.
What’s worth the spend — and what’s getting cut
So what are people spending on when they do open their wallets?
- 40.2% say they’re covering bills and basics
- 28.2% are saving for travel and getaways
- 21.2% are investing in food and BBQs
Meanwhile, a lot of folks are trimming the fat:
- 30.8% are cutting back on shopping
- 27.6% are reducing general spending
The verdict? Essentials and experiences are in — lavish trips and impulse buys, not so much.
Summer stress is real (and so are staycations)
Let’s talk vacations. Or, for a lot of us, the lack thereof.
- 38.6% of over 1,000 MoneyLion respondents say they’re not taking a vacation this summer
- Another 30.1% are changing plans to a staycation due to high prices
And the emotional toll is real:
- 33.6% say summer makes them more anxious about money
- 51% feel “the same as usual” — not better, just baseline
The takeaway? A little sunshine doesn’t erase financial stress. And lavish travel isn’t a given in 2025 (and putting it on buy now, pay later doesn’t count as a carefree vacay).
Summer budget tips that actually work
Now that we’ve covered the vibes, here’s how to actually survive summer spending without the burnout.
1. Plan ahead, even just a little
Even if you’re “winging it,” try writing down the big-ticket events and costs. A small roadmap can keep you from going off the rails.
2. Staycations = budget MVP
Explore your city like a tourist. Free concerts, museum days, backyard movie nights… trust us, your bank account will thank you.
3. Cool down your food budget
Batch cook. Grill in bulk. Freeze leftovers. Summer food doesn’t have to mean daily DoorDash.
4. Use a separate summer fund
Whether it’s a savings pod or just a renamed checking account, keeping summer spending siloed can help you stay on track.
5. Don’t sleep on cash back
From groceries to gas, now’s the time to use those cashback credit cards or use MoneyLion’s cashback rewards to ease the sting.
Enjoy summer without the burn
You don’t need a five-star trip or a fancy grill setup to have a memorable summer. Whether you’re stretching every dollar, swapping big plans for local ones, or just trying to survive rising grocery prices, this season is all about smart, intentional choices and finding joy in the little things.
Want to make the most of your money while the sun’s out? Join MoneyLion and stay in control — this summer and beyond.
