As a college aged student, with little money and possibly even little time, it is hard to fill your summer with activities other than work or school related responsibilities. Some of your friends might be going on fun trips, while you may feel like there is no way to do anything fun without spending an arm and a leg. It is a struggle to find things to occupy yourself in your free time that don’t feel like you’re planning for a kid you babysit, coming across ideas of arts and crafts, sidewalk chalk, or a trip to the park. Here are eight ideas of fun things to do this summer as a college student, which cost little, or no, money.
1. Hiking
Doing a quick Google search to see where there are cool hiking paths around you, is an easy and free way to spend time with friends. Spending a little time with nature, while maybe enjoying a picnic and a beautiful view, is a great morning or afternoon activity for those who enjoy a little adventure.
2. DIY Olympics
Bring out your friendly rivalries, and get in the spirit of this summer’s Olympics, with a do-it-yourself version. You may not have a javelin toss, or a wrestling match, but a few competitive games of tug-o-war, beer pong, corn hole, or flip cup can be a fun time spent with friends.
3. Day-trip to the beach
Anyone who lives on either coast most likely has a beach somewhere within a few hours away from their home. You and a few friends can pack a bag with some towels, sunscreen, and snacks, to hit the sand for a fun day-trip. It is easy, inexpensive, and can be done in a single day.
4. Student Night sporting events
Many professional and/or minor league teams have specified student nights, where students can get tickets for a cheap price by showing their ID. This is a great opportunity to attend some events that may otherwise be overly priced, even though you may not get the best seats.
5. Go flea market/yard sale hopping
For those that enjoy shopping on a budget, look online for all the upcoming flea markets or yard sales occurring in your area. This is an awesome opportunity to grab some unique or vintage finds at low cost.
6. Attend summer festivals and fairs
We all have dreams of attending the country’s greatest music festivals, but that experience comes at no small cost. Instead of draining your savings on big festivals, look around for some local fairs or concerts that will be coming to your town. This is a great way to save money as well as get some good eats and see live music.
7. Visit a national zoo, Smithsonian, or park
Most nationally funded places such as parks or zoos are often of no or little cost to visitors. National parks can provide a day full of fun and adventure, while a Smithsonian allows you to have the unique opportunity to delve into the history of our country, technology, musicians, wildlife, etc.
8. Have a bonfire
Nothing is quite as fun as having all your friends/family gathered around the fire while chowing down on smores and snacks. Something about good conversation, sitting under the stars, and having your hair smell like smoke always promises a good time.
Although these are only a few ideas, I hope that these will inspire you to make the most of your free time this summer, despite your monetary situation. Good times can be found in unlikely places, and remember that any opportunity to explore new things with friends or family is time well spent.
