Enjoying a day out doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can explore your local area, bond with loved ones and have a truly memorable experience - without breaking the bank. Here are our tips to enjoy outings without breaking the budget.
1. Discover the great outdoors
Nature offers endless opportunities for entertainment, and it’s completely free. From hiking trails to public parks, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings without spending a dime.
Ideas for free outdoor adventures:
- Take a scenic hike or nature walk.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at a nearby park.
- Spend a day at the beach, lake or river.
- Visit a botanical garden or arboretum. Keep your eyes peeled for free admission days, which some do once or twice a month!
- Go stargazing on a clear night.
2. Take advantage of community resources
Many towns and cities host free or low-cost events and activities throughout the year. Keep an eye on local event calendars, community boards and social media pages to stay informed about what’s happening near you.
Affordable community-based ideas:
- Attend free concerts, outdoor movie nights or festivals in your area.
- Visit a local library for events like storytime, workshops or film screenings.
- Explore historical landmarks or public art installations.
- Check out free admission days at local museums or zoos.
3. Get active
Exercise and play can be a great way to spend time together while staying healthy. Whether you’re with friends, family or enjoying some alone time, there are many ways to get moving without spending a dime.
Budget-friendly activities for staying active:
- Look into free yoga or fitness classes that may be offered locally.
- Organize a game of Frisbee, soccer or volleyball.
- Go for a bike ride on a local trail.
- Try geocaching—a free modern-day treasure hunt using GPS.
4. Explore DIY entertainment
Sometimes, the best outings are the ones you create yourself. Turning your home or backyard into a fun venue can be just as fun as going out - and much more cost-effective.
Creative DIY outing ideas:
- Host a backyard campout complete with a firepit and s’mores.
- Set up a DIY movie night under the stars with a projector and blankets.
- Organize a scavenger hunt for kids (or adults) with themed clues.
- Arrange a board game or trivia night with friends.
5. Hunt for deals and discounts
When you’re planning to spend money on an outing, don’t set out before you visit sites like Groupon for discounts and/or promotions. You can also check out the venue’s website and social media posts. Many attractions and businesses offer ways to save if you know where to look.
Ways to save on outings:
- Use apps like Groupon to find discounted activities.
- Look for coupons on websites or local newspapers.
- Take advantage of memberships, such as annual passes to zoos or museums.
- Visit attractions during off-peak hours or days to save on admission fees.
6. Bring your own food and drinks
Dining out can quickly become one of the most expensive parts of an outing. Packing your own meals, snacks and beverages can be a fantastic way to save.
Tips for saving on food:
- Pack sandwiches, fruits and drinks for a picnic.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to keep yourself hydrated without paying big bucks to buy drinks while on outings.
- Instead of eating a restaurant, eat at home and then just go out for dessert or sodas instead!
- Avoid purchasing food at amusement parks or zoos. Many allow outside food as long as it's not packaged in glass, so bring your own lunch and/or snacks to save big!
7. Explore local gems
Sometimes, the best adventures are hiding in plain sight. Exploring what’s nearby can lead to delightful discoveries.
Hidden gems to explore:
- Farmer’s markets often offer free samples and a festive atmosphere.
- Local fairs or parades are charming and inexpensive.
- Go on a self-guided walking tour of your city’s historic landmarks.
- Visit free or low-cost attractions like community theaters, local band performances and art galleries.
8. Share costs with friends
Splitting costs can make outings more affordable for everyone involved. Gather a group of friends or family and plan an adventure together.
Cost-sharing ideas:
- Carpool to save on gas and parking fees.
- Share picnic supplies, like blankets and coolers.
- Rent equipment (like kayaks or bikes) as a group to lower individual costs.
You can have a fun day out and save money, too! Use these tips to get started.