The summer holidays are upon us and it’s time to start planning days out and fun activities. Many parents approach the long summer break with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. It’s not always easy to keep kids entertained, especially if you’re on a budget. To make this the best summer yet without breaking the bank, we’ve put together some incredible ideas for fun-packed family outings.
Camping
If you fancy getting away and you don’t want to contend with busy airports or pay a premium to jet off during the peak season, have you thought about going camping? Camping is a brilliant way to get out into the great outdoors, make memories and try new activities. The beauty of going camping today is that there are options to suit everyone. You can go with tradition and pitch a tent under the stars, or you can enjoy creature comforts with a glamping holiday and stay in a chalet, a caravan, a shepherd’s hut, a yurt or a teepee. You could also look into alternatives like booking a treehouse or a lakeside cabin. Filter results based on your budget and party size and think about what you want to do while you’re away. It’s a great idea to read reviews, search for inspiration on social media and get recommendations from friends and colleagues.
Days out in nature
Summer is the perfect time of year to plan days out with the kids in nature. From forests, lakes and hills to reservoirs, natural water parks and woodlands, there’s scope to try all kinds of activities. Go for a bike ride, learn to abseil or rock climb, go kayaking or rafting, or simply take a walk in beautiful surroundings and enjoy a picnic with a view. Depending on where you live and how far you want to travel, you can organise day trips, make a weekend of it or stay for a few days.
Beach breaks
Going to the beach is a brilliant way to enjoy quality time together. Whether you’re lucky enough to have a coastal gem on your doorstep, or you have to drive for a couple of hours to reach the shore, planning a day at the seaside or a beach break is an excellent way to make the most of long days and blue skies. Search online for beaches and resorts and narrow down your options based on how far you want to go and what type of break you’re looking for. Some spots are ideal for those looking for hustle and bustle and all the thrills and spills of a traditional seaside holiday with arcades, piers, rides and attractions. Others are more suited to those seeking secluded beaches and the chance to escape it all.
Museums and galleries
Visiting museums and galleries is not only a fantastic, fun way to encourage your kids to learn and enjoy new experiences but it also provides a budget-friendly option for parents. Most museums offer free entry or discounted rates for adults, and many run exhibitions and activities like interactive trails and workshops designed for children during the holidays. Search online to see what’s going on in your local area.
Festivals
Summer is festival season. While the biggest festivals are sometimes more adult-friendly and expensive, there is an ever-expanding range of events to cater to families looking for an affordable day out or weekend away. Keep an eye out in local newspapers and social media groups for details about festivals in your area, or use the Internet to learn more about events that are taking place in other parts of the country. You may decide that you want to make a weekend of it and go camping, hire a motorhome or book a budget hotel or B&B. Some festivals may offer free entry for kids or ticket bundles, which offer a reduced price if you attend two days or book camping with your ticket, for example.
Games and picnics at the park
Playing games and having picnics at the park is a surefire way to have loads of fun without spending a fortune. Get friends and family members together, take a bat and ball, a rounders or cricket set, a football, cards or a frisbee, and lay out a load of blankets, rugs and towels. Pack a bag or a hamper full of edible treats, open some drinks and enjoy the weather. Kids and adults can enjoy hours of fun catching up with friends and playing games without worrying about driving for miles or thinking about how much they’re spending.
The holidays are fast approaching. It’s time for parents to start planning and thinking about how to enjoy a wonderful summer. If you’re keen to make this the best summer yet without blowing the budget, you can organise some amazing days out, activities and outings. Go camping, take a trip to the beach and get out into the great outdoors and enjoy being in nature. Visit local museums and galleries, take advantage of free activities, look for family-friendly festivals and get friends and family members together for fun-filled days at the park.
