3 ways to save money on youth sports

It’s easy to calculate why the cost of youth sports is on the rise – with fees, equipment, lessons and travel – it all adds up quickly. If you’re looking to save a few bucks while providing life lessons on the playing field, check out these 4 winning tips for youth sports savings this season:

Save on early bird registration discounts

Take advantage of Early Bird Specials when registering. Many park districts and leagues offer discounts of up to 10% for getting a head start on the season.

Also keep an eye out for membership discounts, such as Youth on Course. For an annual fee of $20, kids 6 to 18 can play local golf courses like Village Links of Glen Ellyn, White Pines, Orchard Valley and over two dozen more in the Chicagoland, for $5 or less a round.

How to save money buying sports equipment

• Rent: Many leagues, park districts and indoor venues, such as Players Indoor Sports Center, offer rental equipment. This is a great way to save money on sports that require helmets, such as hockey and lacrosse; where a good helmet alone, can cost over a $100.
• Resale stores: Check out stores like Play It Again Sports – where you can buy new or gently-used name brand equipment. And you can save even more by trading up or selling your existing equipment – up to a 30% discount.
• Online Shopping: Find awesome deals on new & used equipment by checking out sites like Amazon, eBay or Swap Me Sports. Along with finding great prices on traditional sports gear, such as bats, balls and gloves, you’ll also be able to shop for harder to find items like fencing foils and archery sets.

Sign up for hotel loyalty programs

Is a summer sports road trip in your future? Traveling with the team can add up quickly with hotels, meals and fuel costs – not to mention tournament fees. Begin your savings at home by signing up for hotel loyalty programs. Along with instant cash savings, you may qualify for added perks like free Wi-Fi, discounted parking and free nights down the road.

If you can swing it, splurge for a room with a refrigerator and microwave. You’ll more than make up the difference by bringing healthy snacks, sandwiches and instant breakfast items from home. And don’t forget to pack coffee and beverages for the adults.

Whether you’re traveling to Sioux Falls for a softball tournament, purchasing equipment online or filling up in Freeport, save even more money with DuPage’s Credit Union Inspire Cash Back Visa® Signature Card the premier cash back card for both everyday expenses and extraordinary adventures. Our Inspire Cash Back Signature Card was created to reward Members for doing more of what they love by offering 3% cash back on travel, entertainment, and dining with no foreign transaction fees.