Affordable Adventures: Budget Tips for a Nova Scotia Summer in 2024

Where does our money go during the summer? If you can think of a few things you like to spend extra money on during this warm season, then you’ve put yourself on the right trail! When we think about what we spend money on, and what we would like to spend money on, we’re well on our way to creating a summer budget! Here are our top three tips for creating a 2024 summer budget.

Start Saving Early:

We already talked about this in our previous blog here, but it’s worth it to mention again. We talked about ways to “find” extra money to save so you could have extra room in your budget from some summer activities. Tips included putting a portion of your paycheque away before paying the bills, reducing food and transportation costs, selling unused items, and trying a no-spend challenge. Give one of these saving challenges a try this summer!

Make a Calendar:

Maybe you’re going on a few adventures, like going out with friends, traveling to new destinations, attending weddings and other outings! When you keep a calendar of these important dates, you’ll know when you’re likely to spend more money. This will give you time to save up some extra funds or make a mini budget you’ll try to stick to during these special events.

Try Lower-Cost Activities (Our Favorite 5 Options!):

Summer can add up quickly. Maybe you’ve budgeted for a special trip, but are left looking for pocketbook-friendly activities to do for the rest of summer. Luckily here in Nova Scotia, we have lots of activities ready for us to adventure in that shouldn’t put a big dent in your wallets.

Hiking — At Money Path, we’re big fans of exploring the great outdoors, and hiking is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy nature. Grab your walking shoes and head to a local trail. Whether it’s the Inverness Boardwalk, Inverness Beach, or The Celtic Shore Coastal Trail, you’ll find that a hike is a refreshing and cost-effective way to spend your day. Enhance your adventure by listening to an audiobook from the library as you walk.

Beach Days — A day at the beach is another budget-friendly option. Pack your own drinks, snacks, and toys to save even more money. Scour your kitchen for some creative picnic ideas and use coupons to get beach supplies at a discount. From swimming and searching for unique beach rocks to building sandcastles and reading a good book, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy by the water. Remember, if you’re an adult: you’re allowed to build sandcastles, too.

Museums and Cultural Sites — Not everyone enjoys spending time outdoors, and that's perfectly okay! If you're more interested in history and culture, there are plenty of budget-friendly indoor activities to explore. Local museums and cultural sites often have hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Check out places like the Inverness Miners Museum, the Inverness Centre for the Arts, or the Doug Fraser Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden. These spots offer a wealth of knowledge and a great way to spend a day without breaking the bank.

Farmer’s Markets — Visiting a farmer’s market is a wonderful way to support local artisans and enjoy the community vibe. Wander through the stalls, meet up with friends, and if your budget permits, purchase some unique, locally made products. Keep an eye out for markets in your area.

Local Activities and Events — During the summer, Nova Scotia burst with life with numerous festivals, musical events, parades, workshops, and friendly gatherings. There’s always a live performance, or entertaining event to enjoy. Many of these events are either free or low-cost fundraisers supporting local community services. So, head out, have fun, connect with friends, and create unforgettable memories without straining your budget.

This summer, let your creativity and sense of adventure guide you. Whether you're hiking, lounging on the beach, exploring local history, or enjoying a farmer’s market, there are endless ways to have fun while being mindful of your budget. Embrace the season, make unforgettable memories, and take plenty of pictures to capture every moment. Here’s to a fantastic, budget-friendly summer in Nova Scotia!