Kids Ain't Cheap

But They Sure Are Worth It

Summer Fun on a Budget: 10 Ways to Beat the Heat for Cheap

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Image by Raphaël Biscaldi

When the temperatures rise, it’s easy to fall into the trap of expensive entertainment—theme parks, weekend getaways, and waterparks that eat up your budget faster than you can say “summer break.” But having a fun, memorable summer doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. In fact, some of the most refreshing, joy-filled experiences are the ones that don’t cost much at all.

Whether you’re a parent trying to keep kids entertained, a couple looking for creative date ideas, or just someone trying to make the most of a limited budget, there are plenty of ways to cool down and soak up the season without breaking the bank. All it takes is a little creativity, some planning, and a willingness to explore what’s already around you.

Let’s dive into ten surprisingly affordable ways to beat the heat—and boredom—this summer.

Visit a Splash Pad or Public Pool

You don’t need an expensive resort pass to cool off in the water. Most cities offer public splash pads or community pools with low-cost or even free admission. They’re especially great for families with kids who just need a safe, refreshing place to burn energy and stay active.

Host an At-Home Water Day

Skip the waterpark admission and turn your backyard into a water wonderland. A few dollars at the dollar store can get you water balloons, squirt guns, or even a slip-n-slide. Add in a sprinkler, some music, and popsicles, and you’ve got a day’s worth of entertainment that rivals any big-ticket outing.

Take Advantage of Local Free Events

Summer is festival season, and you’d be surprised how many free outdoor concerts, movie nights, and community fairs pop up during the warmer months. Local parks departments, libraries, and city websites usually post event calendars. Keep an eye out for events with live music, food trucks, or games for kids.

Plan a DIY Ice Cream or Popsicle Night

Instead of heading to the nearest dessert shop every time the craving strikes, turn it into a fun at-home event. Make ice cream or popsicles from scratch, or just dress up plain store-bought ones with toppings. It’s cheaper, more personal, and surprisingly satisfying to create your own summer treat bar.

Image by Anastasiya Romanova 

Head to the Nearest Nature Spot

Summer adventures don’t have to cost more than the price of gas. Look up a nearby beach, lake, hiking trail, or shady forest preserve. Pack snacks and drinks, bring a blanket, and enjoy a day of free outdoor fun. Nature provides some of the best forms of entertainment, completely unplugged and budget-friendly.

Take Advantage of “Kids Eat Free” Deals

Dining out can get pricey fast in the summer months when you’re always on the go. But many restaurants offer specific days or times when kids eat free with a paying adult. A little research into your area can turn dinner into a night out without blowing your food budget.

Get Creative With a Summer Bucket List

Instead of feeling pressure to say “yes” to every expensive activity, build a summer bucket list full of free or low-cost goals. Think sidewalk chalk art days, sunrise hikes, stargazing in the backyard, or visiting every park in town. Turning fun into a challenge makes even the simplest activities feel exciting and fresh.

Join or Host a Toy or Book Swap

Kids tend to get bored fast, especially during long summer breaks. A toy or book swap with other families can refresh your home collection at zero cost. Adults can join in too—think used board games, puzzles, or beach reads. It’s a great way to save money and build community while you’re at it.

Turn Errands Into an Adventure

Instead of fighting the inevitable trips to the grocery store or pharmacy, turn them into mini outings. Let kids help choose ingredients for a new summer recipe or look for a themed item—like red, white, and blue snacks for the 4th of July. With the right attitude, even the mundane can be turned into fun.

Create a Summer Movie or Game Night Tradition

One of the easiest ways to stay entertained and beat the heat indoors is to create a simple weekly tradition. Host a themed movie night complete with popcorn and cozy blankets, or try out new board games borrowed from the library. These low-cost habits not only create structure but give everyone something to look forward to.

Focus on Laughter, Not Money

Summer memories don’t require a luxury budget. In fact, the moments that stick with us most are often the ones filled with laughter, sunshine, and good company—not credit card debt. The key is being intentional with how you spend your time and money. When you shift the focus away from “bigger is better” and lean into creativity, connection, and resourcefulness, summer becomes something you get to enjoy, not something you have to afford.

What’s your favorite low-cost way to make summer unforgettable?

Read More:

Summer Fun Without the Sunburn: Indoor Activities Kids Love

15 Outdoor Adventures to Transform Your Kids’ Summer

5 Expenses Every Family Can Save On

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5 Expenses Every Family Can Save OnHaving to provide for a family is expensive. There are more mouths to feed, kids to clothe and activities to attend. Families are often looking for areas to save but sometimes are at a loss about where to start. There are many areas a family could look at cutting back on or eliminating all together in an effort to balance a family budget.

Clothes

Before I buy anything I always check the local thrift store first. Women’s and children’s clothes especially. Women are always gaining and losing weight, often buying, and then discarding, perfecting good and sometimes new clothes for others to capitalize on! Children just grow like weeds so rarely get more than a few months worth of an item anyway.

Utilities

I already spoke about cutting back on cable options (eliminating everything entirely also being an option). Other options for saving on utility costs are to look into energy savings. Everything from upgrading cheaper options like energy-efficient light bulbs, to more expensive options like upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. All will help with your monthly bottom line.

Transportation

Have a good look at your transportation costs. Do you really need a second car. Could you make one vehicle work? Is there a way to save on gas? Carpooling? Public transit? We sold my car before we moved into our current home. Though it would be hugely convenient sometimes to have that second car, especially with my commute and a child, we can’t justify the added expense. Even with a paid-off car we need to consider gas, insurance and maintenance costs.

Food

Food expenses can get out of control in any sized family. I can’t stress enough how important meal planning is. Not only will it save your sanity it will help your budget immensely. We used to easily spend $650 per month of groceries for our family of three (plus cat). Now, an expensive month is $450 and that usually includes topping up some supplies and on-off items.

I can’t think of any other way to maintain a decent diet and in-check budget without meal planning. It makes all aspects of your life easier! Also look into buying bulk for items you consume a lot of. We go through a lot of berries, bananas and broccoli for example so always buy them at a wholesaler instead. We also find stuff like toilet paper and laundry soap generally cheaper at wholesaler prices.

Don’t Buy Cheap Stuff

This sounds counterintuitive but if you waste your money on cheap crap, you will ultimately end up spending more money. Saving up for quality usually saves money in then end. Some things you can get away with a cheaper version but other things are worth saving for. You decide if the item in question is worth saving for or a cheaper version will do.

I for example would never buy my growing child expensive clothes when I can shop at thrift stores or places like Target knowing it won’t fit in like three months and will have plenty of play encrusted in it.  I would however invest in pieces for myself or husband that I know we’ll get a lot of wear out of.

How do you save on family expenses?