August often brings a shift in routines—and budgets. Whether you’re prepping for a new school year or starting to think ahead to the holidays, now is the perfect time to plan for seasonal expenses that can sneak up fast.

For Families with Kids: Back-to-School Budgeting

Back-to-school season can be a budget buster if you’re not prepared. Between school supplies, backpacks, clothing, activity fees, and tech upgrades, it’s easy to overspend without a plan. Start by listing what your child actually needs—last year’s backpack might still work, and hand-me-downs can help stretch your clothing budget.

Once you have a list, set a realistic spending limit and shop with intention. Look for school supply sales, tax-free weekends (August 8th-10th here in Texas), and secondhand clothing stores. This is also a good time to review your monthly budget and adjust for any recurring school-related costs like lunches, transportation, or extracurriculars.

For Everyone: Start Thinking About the Holidays

Even if you’re not shopping for school supplies, August is a smart time to look ahead to the holiday season. The earlier you start, the easier it is to spread out your spending—and avoid the financial stress that December can bring.

Make a rough outline of your expected holiday expenses: gifts, travel, events, decorations, and hosting costs. Divide that number by the remaining months of the year and start setting aside a small amount each month in a dedicated savings or sinking fund. You might also consider starting gift shopping early when sales pop up.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

When you plan ahead, you stay in control of your finances instead of reacting to surprises. Whether you’re buying crayons or booking plane tickets, a little forethought in August can help you avoid debt, reduce money stress, and enjoy the season ahead with more freedom and peace of mind.

Your budget isn’t just about bills—it’s a tool to support the life you want to live, one season at a time.