Summer can be one of the most fun times of the year for various reasons: school's out, vacations are starting and the stress of finals is behind you – unless you’re one of the over achievers who took summer classes, major props to you! If not, here are a few (inexpensive) ideas to fill your summer daze. Don’t spend the whole summer on the couch watching Netflix. Instead try some of these ideas with your friends and make some memories!
1. Get a summer job.
Although working may not be what you had planned for the summer, it beats doing nothing all summer. Ask your friends to apply with you. A summer job might not be the best thing, but at least you’ll get to spend time with your friends. The best part is you get paid! After your first paycheck, be sure to treat yo self.
2. Go on a road trip with some friends.
It doesn’t even have to be a long road trip. Take a ride to the town nearest you and go explore with your friends. It’s not about where you go, but the people you go with. If everyone chips in for gas, it will cost almost nothing.
3. Have a water balloon fight.
It’s a fun way to hang out with your friends, be outside and stay cool at the same time. Water balloons are also super cheap and come in big packs. Just be prepared. A water balloon means war.
4. Have a baking day with your family or friends.
Do you ever see recipes on Facebook or Pinterest that you’re dying to try but never have the time? Well, now is the perfect time! Invite a few people to join and choose teams if you want to make it competitive. If everyone brings over a few ingredients, you'll have plenty to choose from without breaking the bank.
5. Go to the local rec center or park in your town.
If you have a rec center, there are bound to be basketball courts, pool tables and ping pong tables. Park should have tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields and playgrounds (let’s be real, you’re never too old to get on the swings) as well. Bring along your friends for a day full of fun activities. The best part about the rec or a park is that it's free.
6. Host a breakfast party.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and what could be better than turning it into a party? Invite your pals and whip of your best pancakes to start the day off on a good note. Make it a potluck type of breakfast to save some money.
7. Start a new workout routine.
Whether you’re in shape or not, if you’ve ever wanted to try a new workout video or join a gym, now’s the time! You’ve got plenty of time to exercise each day and if you’re feeling sore, you don’t have to worry about making it all day long at school. Most gyms have summer specials or if you're trying new routines, those can be found for free online most of the time. There are no excuses!
8. Stay at home and have a spa day.
Going out to have a spa day can become pretty pricey so why not stay at home? Get some face masks, your favorite nail polish, and don’t forget the cucumbers! All of those things can be found for a dollar or two so it's a double win. Cheap and relaxing! Invite your friends or do it solo – either way you’re well on your way to a strss-free day.
9. Have a movie day with your pals.
Watch a movie that has a few sequels or just watch a bunch of random movies. Stay at home or go to the movie theater (I know my local theater has a $5 movie day, so check yours to see). Grab your favorite snacks and your favorite people for a fun day in or out!
10. Hit up a local music festival or concert.
Even if there isn’t one in your city or town, there is bound to be one close by. Nothing says summer like a night out with music and friends. Lawn tickets can be as cheap as $20 so bring a chair or blanket and save yourself some money. You'll still be able to hear the music just fine and you can sit with a big group of people. Win Win!
