Smart summer money moves can pay off all year

Summer savings can really benefit your finances and budget later on this year - especially when the holiday season approaches. This summer, take control of your finances while enjoying the warm weather and vacations.

The DealPros - an expert team of savvy shoppers and savers at Savings.com - have several tips to help you keep your money in order while enjoying the summer fun.

* Stock up on summer markdown deals.
Buy kids' swimming pools, patio furniture, outdoor toys and grills at the end of the summer when prices are their lowest. You'll get a great deal and be ready to go for next summer, says Shellie Deringer from Saving with Shellie.

* Take a summer vacation from grocery shopping.
Many of us have cabinets full of items that have been in there for months. Take advantage of the products that you have on hand and take a summer vacation from grocery shopping. Not only will it save you money, but you'll be able to clean out your cabinets in the process and possibly come up with a new creative recipe, says Jennie Sanford from Bargain Blessings. In addition, consider planting a garden to complement your meals with fresh vegetables.

* Identify a savings goal and stick to it.
Join the Savings.com DealPros in taking a Savings Pledge at www.facebook.com/Savings where you can share how much you plan to save each week and what you're saving for. Keeping your ultimate saving goal in mind can help you stay committed to not blowing your budget this summer.

* Invest in several reusable bottles.
Use these reusable bottles for water and other beverages for your family. Pack these on short road trips or for your daily outings, says Briana Carter from Bargain Briana. Not only will you be saving money by not purchasing expensive soft drinks or bottled water, you'll also be helping the environment with your reusable bottles.

* Look for free or cheap indoor activities.
To beat the heat mid-day, consider signing up for free bowling for kids (available from several national chains) or attend free movies (usually playing between 10 a.m. and noon) to soak up some air conditioning and get the kids out of the house, says Kelly Whalen from The Centsible Life.

* Take a "staycation."
Consider your backyard your own adventure. Grab local travel guides and subscribe to daily deal sites to find free or discounted adventures in your local area, says Ashley Nuzzo of Frugal Coupon Living.

Having fun this summer doesn't mean having to spend a ton of money. It means saving on the things you need, so you can buy the things you want. By taking the Savings Pledge and using advice from the DealPros, you can save money and be one step ahead for the holiday season.