Frugal Ways to Enjoy Your Summer During COVID-19
The panel included Rod Griffin: Senior Director, Consumer Education and Advocacy, Experian; Beverly Harzog: Credit Card Expert and Consumer Finance Analyst for U.S. News; Paulina Likos: Investing Reporter at U.S. News; Alicia R. Hudnett Reiss: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™; Alexandria White: Credit Cards Reporter at CNBC Select; Molly Ford-Coates: Founder, Ford Financial Management; Patrina Dixon: Certified Financial Educator; and Take Charge America.
Questions We Discussed:
Q1: If your community is reopening, what are some precautions to take in public settings to stay safe and still have fun this summer?
Q2: What are some low-cost outdoor activities you can still do this summer while practicing social distancing?
Q3: What can you do to help you and your family stay physically active and healthy this summer?
Q4: What are some strategies for cooling off on hot summer days without breaking the bank?
Q5: What are some tips to unplug from technology this summer?
Q6: What are some tips for staying safe and social distancing on a road trip this summer?
Q7: What are some fun things to do inside when it’s too hot outside?
Q8: What are some ways to make the most out of working from home this summer?
Q9: What are some money lessons to teach kids this summer?
Q10: Any last-minute frugal tips for a safe and fun summer this year?
Retweet these insights from our community:
A1. Stay out of large crowds, maintain at least 6 feet of distance, and wear a mask (try to avoid touching/adjusting it). Use hand sanitizer right after any direct contact with others if you can’t get someplace to wash your hands. #creditchat
— Take Charge America (@TCAsolutions) July 8, 2020
A2: Kayaking! Riding bikes. Surfing. Paddle boarding. Taking a walk on the beach or around a park (just be sure to wear a mask if it’s crowded). #creditchat
— Ashley Jacobs (@collegecents) July 8, 2020
A3: We set aside time every day to do exercise together. Whether that’s going on a bike ride, walk, cardio, yoga stretching, playing basketball or running. And we try to maintain a healthy diet too. Although summer treats are the best! 😁 #creditchat
— Kembala Evans (@Kembala) July 8, 2020
A4: Make a cold treat during those hot summer days 😎Sometimes, it can be dangerous to be outside if the heat is overbearing. This can be tough for young kids or older adults. Use your discretion! #CreditChat
— Paulina Likos (@Paulina_Likos) July 8, 2020
A5: Try to avoid checking social media apps frequently. You can easily fall down the rabbit hole! Every time you want to check your phone, try going for a short walk around your home. #CreditChat https://t.co/7cLPbaATMc
— Alexandria White (@awhite_credit) July 8, 2020
A6: Take day trips instead of overnight travel. Still get out, but minimize risk of exposure. #creditchat
— Rod Griffin (@Rod_Griffin) July 8, 2020
A7: When it’s too hot during the day, take a night stroll when the sun goes down and try star gazing. 💫💫💫
This can be a fun activity for both young kids and adults. #creditchat— Paulina Likos (@Paulina_Likos) July 8, 2020
A8. Take advantage of long summer days by starting and ending your day earlier (if it’s OK w/your boss) so you have more time in the evenings to be with the family or focus on self-care. #creditchat
— Take Charge America (@TCAsolutions) July 8, 2020
A9. For many, money might still be tight due to job loss or reduced hours as a result of the pandemic. If that’s the case, and you are re-doing the family budget as a result, include your children in the discussion. #CreditChat
— Jennifer White (@Jennifer_Wwhite) July 8, 2020
A10 Keep it simple, no need to push for a big summer vacation this year. Stay safe and healthy first and foremost! #CreditChat
— Jennifer (@SeattleEine) July 8, 2020