Hey guys! It’s time. I know it seems like we just did this, but we’re closing out January and peeking in on February so it’s budgeting time. February is a fun month, a lovely month, don’t you think? It’s short, we celebrate love, and we pay attention to the groundhog.

If you’re looking for a budgeting checklist for this 28 day month, then check out my list below! What do you always budget for during February?

Winter Activities

We’ve (Michiganders and other out-of-staters) have been hammered these last few weeks with winter’s rain. And with all that snow comes travel restrictions, white out conditions, and (this week, dangerously) cold temps. But it also is the best time of the year for the cold weather outdoor enthusiast. If you like skiing, sledding, snowboarding, tobogganing, ice skating, playing ice hockey, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and so the list goes, then you’re in luck with this season’s available snow.

Keep in mind the cost associated with lift tickets, season long passes, entry and equipment fees. Year round activities can get pricey and winter hobbies are no different, but that doesn’t mean you have to cut them out completely. Just plan ahead, prepare and account for the extra cost, and have fun!

Snow Tires

Snow is beautiful, but it mixed with ice can be a hazardous driving concoction. If you live in a snowy climate, you know about taking every precaution if you must venture out, and part of that preparedness might be investing in snow tires. This is actually something my husband and I have been considering.

Definitely shop around for prices, and include the cost in your budget if you choose to go that route.

Increased Heat (Electric) Bill

Bitterly cold temps mean layers of sweatshirts, thick fuzzy socks, and blankets, but it probably also means the heat will kick on. Planning for an increased utility charge won’t blindside you when the bill comes in after this polar vortex we’re caught up in has blown by.

Tax Preparation

We’ve also found ourselves in the trenches of tax season. Plan and prepare if your situation doesn’t require a refund but instead an outgoing check. Not only that, but also consider the cost of hiring a tax professional when filing.

Valentine’s Day

What a lovely time to celebrate the loves in our lives. Planning ahead in this budget category might look like this: a dinner, homemade sentiment, school-aged valentine cards, entertainment (movie, activity, shopping), candy, flowers, cards, gifts, ingredients for home cooked/baked food. Spend as much or as little as you want, just be sure to account for it in your budget.

Traveling

Did you know that Tuesday (January 29, 2019) is National Plan Your Vacation Day? I didn’t know that until I got an email saying as much, and then looked into it, and sure enough it’s a real thing. Here’s an article I found talking about it.

If you’re planning on fleeing the cold (if that applies) during the month of February or the subsequent months, then sock some cash away in preparation. You’ll be happy you did when the times comes!

Super Bowl

Football fan’s finest finale. If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, you know that food is the main event, so keep this in mind while planning out your grocery budget. And if you’re attending, budget for what you are planning to bring along with you.

I hope your favorite team wins, and that the commercials are hilarious!

What do you like to budget for in the month of February? Let me know in the comments! I hope you have a safe and warm winter season!

Cheers!