Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year...but can also be one of the most expensive. Between family vacations, weekend getaways, and much-needed shopping sprees, it’s easy to watch your budget slip away. According to research by Motley Fool Money, “the average cost of a vacation in 2025 is projected to be $7,249, up nearly $1,400 from 2024”(1). And while everyone is feeling the pinch this year, this especially impacts households earning under $100,000. Deloitte's 2025 Summer Travel Survey reveals a shift in the demographic makeup of the traveling public, with higher earners accounting for a larger share of travelers as younger generations opt for cheaper local activities (2).
Have no fear, there are easy ways to combat rising prices. With employee discount platforms like BenefitHub, you could save hundreds on summer activities and purchases.
Travel Smarter
Book your flights early and take time to compare rates across multiple platforms. Make sure to check out your employee discount programs with exclusive deals not available to the public. Airfare tends to skyrocket during peak summer travel months, so planning ahead can save you a significant amount. Search for mid-week flights instead of weekend ones. For even deeper savings, consider booking a vacation package that bundles flights, hotels, and sometimes even car rentals or activities. “Vacation packages can save you $500 or more,” confirms Steve Oliverez, CEO of InsanelyCheapFlights.com (3). These all-in-one deals not only reduce stress but often deliver the best value overall, perfect for maximizing your budget while still getting the vacation you dreamed of.
Entertainment on a Budget
Summer brings the joy of free time, which means concerts, movies, theater, and theme parks. “Over the last ten years, Disney World ticket prices have grown at almost nine times the rate of inflation,” says Fortune (4). But employee perks, like those on BenefitHub, can make the experience more accessible.
- Theme Parks and Museums – Get discounts on tickets to amusement parks, aquariums, zoos, and more.
- Theater and Concerts – From Broadway to local venues, you can save around 20–50% on tickets!
- Movie Tickets – Enjoy a movie on a hot summer day for a fraction of the cost.
Summer Spending
Look out for special deals on meals like lunch specials, day of the week deals, or limited-time promos at restaurants you already love. BenefitHub offers a range of discounts including percentage savings and cash back offers!
Clothing sales are abundant during the summer, especially when it comes to off-season styles and early back-to-school promotions. “Similar to last year, 85% of back-to-class shoppers say they will take advantage of Prime Day and other retailer sales in July to buy classroom staples and other school necessities,” says the National Retail Federation (5). Maximize your savings by stacking those discounts with loyalty rewards programs, promo codes, or cashback tools.
Takeaways
Plan your trips with intention this summer! Travel just before or after peak holidays to avoid inflated costs. Summer is about making memories with friends and family, not stressing over money. But by using your employee perks and sourcing the best deals, you can do more with less. Whether you’re headed to the beach, dancing at a concert, or shopping for that perfect pair of sandals, you’re bound to get a good deal. Check with HR, search your company intranet, or visit BenefitHub.com to get started.
Sources:
- Motley Fool Money, "The Average Cost of a Vacation in 2025: Trends and Statistics"
- Deloitte, "Right-sized American summer: 2025 Deloitte summer travel survey"
- CNBC, "Use these insider travel tips to save hundreds on your next vacation"
- Fortune, "Disney World is unaffordable for average American families. Has Disney become a luxury experience?"
- National Retail Federation, "Majority of Back-to-Class Shoppers Have Already Begun Purchasing School Items"