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Summer Holidays on a Budget: An Aussie Family Checklist
26 October 2026 · SlateAndTally
The summer school holidays are the longest break of the year, and they come right after Christmas. A bit of planning keeps them relaxed.
Plan the weeks
Map the six or so weeks: work days, vacation care days, trips, family visits. Seeing it laid out shows where the costs fall.
Budget categories
- Vacation care
- Day trips and outings
- Extra groceries at home
- Fuel
- Any holiday away
Free and cheap summer ideas
- Beaches, pools and parks
- Library holiday programs
- Council events
- Picnics and bike rides
Set a weekly fun budget
Give each week a fixed amount for outings, so one big day doesn't wreck the rest.
Plan trips with the Holiday Budget app, or read our school holidays budget guide.
General information only, not financial or tax advice.
FAQ
How much does vacation care cost?
It varies by service. Check the Child Care Subsidy with Services Australia.
How do I save for summer?
Add it to your Christmas savings plan.
What about travel?
Book early and set a total.
Try it in an app
Holiday Budget (A$19, one-off): Plan the trip, save for it each pay, and track spending on the road with currency conversion.
Sinking Funds (A$19, one-off): Save a little each pay for the big bills you know are coming: rego, insurance, Christmas, school fees, holidays.