Free and Cheap Things to Do During the Summer
Free and Cheap Things to Do During the Summer
As the temperatures creep up, most of us are anxious to get out and about and do things again this summer. But as our schedules have ramped back up, you have probably noticed your budget is increasing, too. I’ve put together a list of things you can do for a low price or free this summer. If this is your senior summer, it will help you stay on track with your college savings path, too!
-Ice cream taste-off: You can score containers of store-brand ice cream for just a few dollars at a local grocery store. Invite several friends over, and create score cards for the different flavors. Decide on your favorites, and throw in an old movie for the perfect summer night that won’t break the bank!
-Hiking: Most hikes and local/state parks are free or have a small fee for parking. Head out early in the morning to beat the heat, and bring plenty of water and snacks along. If you want, you can pack your own picnic for an affordable lunch. Be sure to always tell someone where you are heading and who you’re with, in case you ever became separated or needed help.
-Learn a new skill: If you have a family friend who has a specialized skill like baking, cake decorating, photography, or working with animals, etc, ask them if they’d be open to teaching you for an afternoon. Of course, be sure to say thank you with a handwritten note or a coffee card, so show you value their time. Learning a new skill like cooking, art, or something like that, is the perfect way to utilize your summer free time.
-Head to the farmer’s market: The local farmer’s markets are the perfect place to spend time without spending a ton of money. Set a budget, and pack your own lunch to make it more affordable, and meet friends to browse the booths. It’s a really nice way to unwind and spend time with the people you love.
-Food truck crawl: This one can get expensive, but it’s often cheaper than eating out. Choose several food trucks to “crawl” and arrange a travel plan to do so with friends! If you’re all on a budget, have one person select an item at each food truck, and bring along extra silverware so you can all sample the awesome dishes! It’s a fun way to try new food in your city, and support your local community.
