Summer Is the Perfect Time for a Financial Tune-Up

Summertime might not seem like the obvious moment to talk about money, but in my experience, it’s one of the best times to step back, take stock, and realign your financial habits with the life you want to live. I recently had the opportunity to share this perspective on Fox 5 in Washington, D.C., where I joined to discuss why summer is the perfect season for a financial reset.

Why now? Because this is the time of year when our spending habits can shift. Travel plans pop up. Credit card balances sneak higher. Schedules loosen. And that creeping feeling of “wait, can I afford this?” shows up when you least want it to.

That’s why I encourage clients to treat summer like a mid-year check-in. It’s not about restricting joy — it’s about making sure your resources are supporting the experiences and goals that matter most to you.

Budget first, then book the trip

Before you book that last-minute getaway or splurge on concert tickets, take a moment to check in on your short-term finances. Revisit your monthly budget, check your credit card balances, and review your credit score to make sure your summer fun doesn’t derail your financial goals.

It’s easy to underestimate how much you’ve spent until you’re staring down a bigger bill than you expected. Better yet, maybe you crushed your budget goals and can even spend a little more through the remainder of the year. A little preparation now goes a long way in helping you enjoy the summer, without financial regret in the fall.

Experiences matter more than expenses

After more than a decade in this field, I’ve learned something from my clients: when it comes to travel, it’s rarely about where you go or how fancy it is. It’s about the quality of the experience — who you’re with, what you’re doing, and the memories you create. These opportunities allow you to deepen relationships, not just with others but also yourself.

Some summers call for a passport stamp. Others are better served by a staycation or a road trip to the coast. Either way, planning for it — emotionally and financially — makes the experience even better.

Think about your “Three Buckets”

I like to think of financial wellness as a balance across three main buckets:

• Short-term: This refers to your day-to-day expenses and your emergency fund. Ensure you have a handle on your fixed expenses (housing, utilities, groceries) and allow yourself some room for fun, but not so much that it derails your goals.
• Mid-term: This might include saving for a new car, a future home upgrade, or next summer’s big vacation. This is often the overlooked category, and I always recommend setting up a separate “fun money” or “experience fund” you can contribute to throughout the year.
• Long-term: These are your retirement accounts, legacy planning, and big-picture priorities. Ensure your contributions remain on track, and if you’ve experienced a significant life change, consider revisiting your plan with a financial advisor.

Each bucket needs attention—and no, you don’t have to treat them all the same. Your stage of life, your income, your values — all of these help determine where your energy and dollars should go.

Prepare, don’t just react

The biggest financial pitfall I see during the summer? Lack of preparation.

Too many people wait until the expense is right in front of them, then put it on the credit card and hope to “catch up later.” That might work once or twice, but over time, it erodes your confidence and overall financial wellness.

If you’re going to spend, spend intentionally. Know how you’ll pay it off. Or even better, save for it in advance—even if it’s just $50 a month into a dedicated account.

Live your richer life — this summer and beyond

At Brighton Jones, we believe in aligning your resources with what matters most. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable trip or simply seeking a little more peace of mind in your day-to-day life, it starts with intention. Money can be a tool to enrich your life — if you give it a purpose. So go ahead and create the experience you’ve been craving, but first ensure your financial house is in order.

Here’s to living your richer life.

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as individualized advice or a recommendation for any specific product, strategy, or course of action. Brighton Jones, its affiliates, and employees do not provide personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice through this communication. This material is not intended to, and does not, create a fiduciary relationship under ERISA or any other applicable law. For individualized advice tailored to your specific circumstances, please consult with your adviser.