Fans Before Fancy

Sure, ACs feel like heaven, but fans still deserve more credit than they get. A ceiling fan at the right speed can make a room feel several degrees cooler. Place a small table fan by the window at night, and it’ll drag in that cooler outside air. Cross-ventilation—opening two opposite windows—works like nature’s own AC, and it’s free.

And if you do use an AC, don’t set it at “Antarctica mode.” Keeping it at 25–26°C is just right. Anything lower only burns electricity and makes you feel cold one minute and sweaty the next.

Drink Smart, Not Expensive

I used to grab a cold drink almost every other day in summer—until I realized how fast those ₹40–₹50 bottles add up. Now I stick to desi coolers, and honestly, they taste better too.

• Buttermilk (chaach) with a pinch of roasted jeera is unbeatable after lunch.
• Nimbu pani with a bit of black salt feels way more refreshing than soda.
• Even something as simple as cucumber- or mint-infused water feels fancy but costs next to nothing.

And if you’ve got kids around, try freezing juice or flavored milk in ice trays—instant homemade popsicles. No overpriced ice creams required.

Clothes That Breathe

You don’t need to shop for new “summer collections” every season. Stick to what works: cotton, linen, khadi. Light colors, loose fits—they keep sweat at bay and make life a lot easier.

A plain white cotton kurta or shirt can be styled in so many ways. Why spend thousands on fast fashion when your cupboard already has everything you need? Summers are about comfort, not trend-chasing.

Cool Homes, Old-School Style

Before coolers and ACs, people used tricks that worked just fine:

• Wet curtains or mats near windows used to create a natural cooling effect when the wind passed through.
• Clay pots (matkas) kept water chilled without electricity.
• Indoor plants like aloe vera and money plant freshen up the air and cool the vibe of the room.

Even today, these methods still work. Plus, they cost almost nothing compared to modern appliances.

Lighter Plates, Happier Stomachs

Nothing makes summer worse than a heavy, oily meal. Switch to lighter options:

• Watermelon, muskmelon, cucumbers—cheap, filling, and hydrating.
• Curd rice or raita with rice is a classic that cools the body instantly.
• Seasonal fruits are not just tasty but budget-friendly too—because when they’re in season, prices drop.

Eating local and seasonal is the golden rule for both health and savings.

Time Your Day

Why step out at 2 PM when the sun is at its worst? Shift outdoor chores to mornings or evenings. It’s cooler, less exhausting, and even your vehicle will consume less fuel if you’re not blasting the AC at full power. Evening walks in the park or neighborhood are free, relaxing, and a healthier way to spend time than sitting in a mall food court.

Spend Where It Matters

Sometimes, spending a little upfront actually saves money later. An energy-efficient fan or AC may cost more initially, but the difference it makes in electricity bills is huge. Similarly, a good insulated water bottle saves you from buying cold water bottles every time you’re out. Small investments, big relief.

Budget-Friendly Fun

Not every weekend has to be about expensive outings. Call a few friends over, play board games, watch a movie indoors, or just chill with iced chaach. Libraries and community centers are underrated places—they’re cool (literally), quiet, and free. Even something simple like painting clay pots or trying DIY crafts at home can be surprisingly fun on a lazy summer afternoon.