Tips For A Budget Friendly Summer
Working with a budget
Having a limited budget does not have to be a hassle for having fun this summer. There are different options for different kind of budgets. I will give you some tips that have worked for me just great. The first important step is to set a budget that include admissions, food and transportation expenses. Is important to be realistic with this budget; it will provide the necessary information to plan your summer activities. The second step is planning your budget friendly summer activities, this does not mean you cannot be spontaneous every now and then; on the contrary, you'll be able to do more fun stuff without spending a fortune.
Free activities
When thinking about summer vacation or activities, many of us forget that there are many fun and free activities that you can practice without spending a cent. Search for parks around your area where you can play sports, go biking, for a run or walk. The beach and hiking trails are good options too, since all these provide an outdoor experience where you can interact with others or just have some relaxing time by yourself. Also look for historical cities in your area; this provide a good site seeing experience while you learn more about your history and have fun. Some cities have free museums, zoos and galleries that you can visit. Don't forget to bring your own water and snacks, this will safe you some money.
Taking a new hobby, like gardening, drawing, writing an autobiography or about any of your favorite topics are ways to spend your summer without boredom or spending much. Remember, you don't need to be an expert on any of these activities, it is just for fun. Well, who knows, you might discover a hidden talent or get better on any of them. Also, be a leader, and get together with members of your community or HOA to plan outdoor activities where the whole neighborhood can participate.
Butget friendly activities
Unfortunately not everything is free, however do not let this discourage you; remember you already set a budget for those activities. Not all activities that require money have to be expensive; you can have lots of fun paying almost nothing. For example, plan camping trips, pot luck parties, a picnic and game day at the park, a visit to a small local water parks, a matinee movie or a movie night at home (you can always rent from Redbox, Blockbuster Express or any other for just $1 per night). Having a family dinner in your patio, a home spa with friends and starting a book club are other inexpensive ways to have fun this summer and even all year long.
In your next trip to buy fruits and vegetables go to your local farmers market, you will not only find good and high quality products for less but you will also have fun learning about different kind of foods and meeting new people while enjoying the outdoors.
Doing research
Don't forget to search the web, newspaper or your local chamber of commerce for free festivals and events in your area. If mass public transportation is available, take advantage of it, is cheaper than driving and you'll save money and energy. Also look around for online deals and discounts on restaurants, bed and breakfast and many others. Websites like livingsocial.com, restaurant.com and specialicious.com give you amazing deals on restaurants and other services.
Remember that having a limited budget does not mean you cannot have fun this summer, just look around and let your imagination and creativity fly, the possibilities are endless.