The summer before we parted ways for college, my group of friends and I wrote down some fun ideas and put them in a jar. Each week, we would draw an adventure and do it. These were some of the ideas that I wrote down.
Most of our trips cost absolutely nothing because, let’s be honest, we were about to go to college and that sucked away all our funds. As summer quickly approaches, here are some inexpensive summer ideas for you and your friends to explore.
1. River Front Walks and Boutique Visits
If you are fortunate enough to live in a city or town with a river/lake/beachfront boardwalk, you can take a walk with your friends. The riverfront in my hometown has several small boutiques and my friends and I ventured through them all. You don’t need to buy anything – all you really need to do is take some goofy pictures in the mirror with big fur coats on.
Cost: Nothing... if you can avoid buying anything at the shops.
2. Local Sporting Events
My friends and I were never that interested in sports, but we absolutely loved going to games. Even if we didn’t know what the heck was going on, we still enjoyed every minute. Check out a hockey game, a baseball game, or maybe get some tickets for a major basketball or football game.
Cost: It really depends on the type of game you want to go to. Most of the local ones near me cost anywhere from $5 - $15.
3. Worldly Food Night
This one was my absolute favorite. My friends and I each chose a different country and made a dish or two specifically from that country. I chose Ireland so I made a twice-baked potato casserole and Irish Cream Brownies. This was so much fun and it really pushed each other to try things we’ve never had before!
Cost: I spent roughly $20 and made two dishes. It really depends on what you have and what you want to make.
4. Fancy Dinner
While at a Christian camp in Michigan, my friend and I went to a super fancy European café. The food was impeccable and we really got to bond – all the while feeling fancy and posh.
Cost: Since the café we went to was quite luxurious, I spent probably $25. You don't even have to make this dinner a fancy dinner, you can just go out with your best pal.
5. Road Trip!
You can’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned road trip! My friends and I were blessed to have a lake house to travel to, but you can really choose anywhere. With a large group, you can split up gas, food, and housing funds. This could be the biggest thing you do all summer and still spend hardly any money.
Cost: Gas = $10 - $15 each (but also depends on your destination); Food = $10 - $15 each (also depends on if you make your own food like we did, or go out); Housing = Free for us, but also depends on where you go and how many people you're with.
6. Bike Rides
If you and your friends own bikes, there is nothing better than taking a nice bike ride on a trail. No money needed, just a scenic bike trail and some great ladies.
Cost: FREE!
7. Photo Shoots
You don’t need a fancy expensive camera – you could just use your phone. My friends and I went out and took cute photos of each other and it was not only a fun experience, but also you get some nice Insta pics out of it.
Cost: FREE!
8. McDonalds in Onesies
You may get some funny looks, but seriously it was an adventure that none of us will forget.
Cost: $1.07 for a large drink
9. Early Morning Breakfasts
Sure, you might want your sleep, but c’mon, you can nap later! We went to Denny’s one morning and ate some awesome food and spent some real quality time together.
Cost: $8 - $10. I got a pancake meal and spent $9.
10. Whatever you do, do it through pictures!
People often make fun of people for taking so many selfies, but those are the memories. Several years from now I won’t remember what we were doing, but I will remember that we were happy and that we were bonding and spending time together. Whatever you choose to do, do it through pictures. Those smiles are what’s going to last.
Cost: Forever memories = pricelessSpecial thanks to my wonderful friends; Allie, Carson, Sarah, Raychel, Caroline, and Kristina. I don't know where I'd be without you guys. (Also, thanks for letting me use your faces for this article).
