Summer Fun On A Budget.
Planning for the future is important, but so is enjoying the present. Luckily, there are many fun summer activities that don’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips to have a blast on a budget as the thermometer heats up.
Dining. Whether you enjoy freshly caught fish at an Italian trattoria or boardwalk funnel cake, waterfront restaurants are inherently appealing. But sometimes all you really need is a great view. Save money on your next trip to the beach or lake by packing a picnic meal. Bringing your own food adds a simple charm to your day, and you’ll often find that purchasing tasty treats from the grocery store saves money and leaves you with great leftovers for your next summer adventure.
Travel. Road trips are synonymous with summer travel value for good reason. Airline or cruise travel often leaves you with additional costs beyond the ticket price, such as rental cars or Wi-Fi. In contrast, a road trip lets you better control your budget by bringing more snacks, minimizing surcharges, and picking cheaper lodging through Airbnb or a discount hotel chain. If possible, plan your summer trips well away from major holidays or conventions to avoid price spikes.
Entertainment. You don’t have to leave town to see something new. Check out your city’s social media pages or good old fashioned bulletin boards for upcoming events. Even if crowded fireworks celebrations aren’t your thing, you’ll often find art shows and antique festivals that bring interesting wares — and unique food — to a cultural district near you. In addition, many libraries and parks host free movie screenings that let you experience a familiar classic at a pleasant venue.
Nature. Many people choose the place they live just for easy access to a beach or an unspoiled forest. But city folk need not despair. Use Google Maps to search for city or national parks in your area. Some may be close enough to justify a day trip. Others may be just a turn away from the main road but conceal the bustle in ways that feel like you’ve entered another world.
Activities. Learning about your parks will also show you great places to go for tennis, basketball, baseball and other sports. Certain parks may specialize in specific activities, while others go all-in on a massive multi-sports complex. Flow down the river in a kayak at a state or national park or take your kids to a public pool with slides and fountains that feel like a mini water park! There are also your local YMCAs, athletic clubs, and rec centers for air-conditioned fun, which could include slower-paced games like billiards and shuffleboard for family and friends of all ages. Checking social media may help you find amateur leagues or informal groups that connect you to other enthusiasts.
Staycation. Don’t assume you know your area inside and out. Even small towns have museums and cultural centers you may be unaware of — or offer new exhibits that reveal unknown parts of its history. Unorthodox attractions like ghost tours or escape rooms can be a fun diversion for date nights. If you enjoy camping, pack up some gear for an overnight trip or set up a tent in the backyard.
Don’t head into Labor Day with a huge credit card bill over your head. Keeping your summer activities budget-friendly will help rein in expenses so you can keep the fun going all year long