Ah, summertime! The sun is out, the weather is perfect – it’s time to do something fun and make some lasting memories.
But if you’re on a tight budget this summer, you might think there’s nothing left to do; after all, spending money seems to be the only way we ever have any real fun these days. Believe it or not though, there are plenty of ways that you can enjoy your time off without breaking your bank account.
Here’s 10 affordable and exciting things for you to check out this season, so let’s get started discovering new places and taking great adventures – without destroying our wallets!
10 Fun and Affordable Things to do this Summer
1. Picnic. Call up a couple of your closest friends and take a trip to your nearest park for some fun in the sun. Avoid the temptation of buying pre-packaged treats and make everything from scratch. It doesn’t have to be too complicated. There are some great easy to make picnic recipes over at BBC Good Food.
2. Visit museums. Free and educational, museums are a great way to spend the day. The British Museum, Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum are among our favourites.
3. Art Exhibitions. Prefer something more on the creative side? Find an art exhibition near you or check out the summer exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts. Running right through to the end of August, the exhibition showcases the works of both world-renowned and emerging artists. Try a paint and sip session with a studio like Pinot & Picasso. It’s a lot of fun, doesn’t break the bank, and you’ll get an artwork to hang in your home too. Win-win!
4. Road trips. Always fun and budget friendly, road trips are ideal for a laugh. Throw on your favourite summer tunes, stock up on snacks and you’re guaranteed a ton of laughs.
5. Bike rides. Take full advantage of the amazing weather and go on a bike ride around the city. Not only a great way to get some exercise but it’s also a brilliant chance see the city at your own pace. Stop and take pictures, grab some lunch and take in all the sights the city has to offer.
6. Have a BBQ. We do love a good barbecue. Great conversation and an afternoon filled with eating and drinking, what more can one ask for?
7. Swimming. When the sun is blazing hot and you can’t seem to cool down, a long swim always does the trick! You’ll feel absolutely amazing afterwards.
8. Take up a hobby. Photography is a useful hobby to pick up and get your creative juices flowing. With smart phones taking some amazing pictures, and the many filters and apps on hand, you’ll have just as much fun editing as you will taking the pictures.
9. Volunteer. There’s nothing as rewarding as volunteering. Find a cause close to your heart and your nearest charity and sign up to lend a hand over the summer. It’s also a great way to meet new people too.
10. Learn a new language. Have you been toying with the idea of going to Paris, Spain or Italy even? Why not use the summer to learn a language. It’ll come in very handy on your travels!
