Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend. It’s the start of summer, a time to honor veterans, and a day for huge sales and deals. If you’re determined to get the most out of your Memorial Day, you might be planning a big shopping trip at your local mall or outlet stores. It can be exciting but also overwhelming.
If you’re feeling stressed out trying to balance Memorial Day weekend sales with barbeques and beach trips, we’ve got some tips for you. Use your free Monday to relax and recharge!
Tip #1: Skip the Shopping…
Sometimes, the best way to avoid the stress that can come with holiday shopping is to simply avoid it altogether. It might be hard to skip those Memorial Day sales, but see if you can set and enforce a “no-commerce” policy.
Instead of shopping, focus on some family togetherness and quality time with friends! There are a ton of great activities that you can do to celebrate the Memorial Day weekend without rushing from store to store or spending a dime.
Crowded shopping malls are something you can easily avoid on Memorial Day for a more relaxing, budget-friendly holiday.
Plan a trip to the park or a backyard potluck with your best pals. This way, you’ll save some serious money while still having an incredible holiday weekend.
Tip #2: …Or At Least Set a Budget
But if it’s been a while since you’ve shopped ’til you dropped and crowded malls don’t phase you, Memorial Day can offer up some great deals. However, it’s important to make sure you don’t over-spend. Create a Memorial Day budget and stick to it.
Holiday sales can blind your smart shopper judgment because you’re in a hurry to buy before you miss out. When you set a budget for yourself, you’ll be able to make sure that your purchases stay within reason and you’ll be able to avoid buying something just because it’s got a big red sticker.
(Bonus Tip: A prepaid credit card is a great way to make sure you stay on budget. Watch our video to find out why!)
Tip #3: Take a Memorial Day “Staycation”
Memorial Day is also a big travel weekend. Many individuals take advantage of their Monday off to hit the road or take to the skies for a mini-vacation. But travel can be stressful and expensive.
Instead of a trip, plan fun activities around your city. Go to your local museum or cultural center, plan a picnic in the park or find a new neighborhood to explore. This is also a great way to spend quality time with your family and teach the kids to appreciate the wonders that are close to home.
Tip #4: Find Free Activities
A pleasant BBQ or picnic is a great way to enjoy your family and friends, without breaking the bank in the process.
Remember, you don’t have to spend a ton of cash to have a memorable Memorial Day. A leisurely hike, an afternoon of board games with your friends — there are great ways to spend the day that don’t cost a dime.
Brainstorm with your spouse or family members, and you’ll be sure to come up with a fun activity for the entire family that’s free or very low-cost.
How Are You Spending Memorial Day?
It can be tough to avoid spending money during the summer holidays, especially when a day like Memorial Day rolls around. By avoiding the crowded malls and busy airport terminals, though, you might be able to enjoy some family togetherness and save some serious cash at the very same time.
Do you have any great Memorial Day activity suggestions? Let us know in the comments!
See Also
5 Tips for Safe Shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2013
Smart Shopper: The Secret to Getting the Best Online Bargains
Smart Shopper: The Best and Worst Buys at the Dollar Store
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