Summer has a way of filling the calendar and blowing through your budget faster than expected. Between day trips, snacks, camps and activities, small expenses add up before you realize it. You don’t need a packed schedule or pricey plans to keep everyone entertained, though. With a few ideas, it’s possible to make the most of the season while keeping spending in check.
Fun at Home
Start with what you already have, then add extra touches that make everyday activities feel a little more special.
Plant a Garden
A backyard, patio or sunny windowsill can become a summer-long project for the whole family. From planting seeds to harvesting herbs, vegetables (opens in a new tab) or flowers, gardening gives kids something to check on each day and may even stretch your grocery budget (opens in a new tab).
Host a Family Movie Night
Turn your living room or backyard into a theater with blankets, popcorn and a favorite movie. Let the kids make homemade tickets, pick a theme or set up a snack bar using treats you already have on hand.
Camp Under the Stars
If the forecast looks good, pitch a tent in the backyard and enjoy a mini getaway without leaving home. Flashlights, stories, card games and s’mores can make it feel like a real camping trip—minus the travel costs.
Cool Off with Water
Fill up a small pool, turn on the sprinkler or create a DIY slip and slide. Water activities are a simple way to beat the heat.
Make Your Own Popsicles
Use fruit juice, lemonade or blended fruit to make a frozen treat. Pour your mix into molds or an ice cube tray, add sticks and let them freeze. It’s an easy activity and a sweet way to save on store-bought snacks.
Easy Outings Around Town
Need a change of scenery? You don’t have to go far. Free community calendars, local parks and seasonal events can help you plan affordable adventures close to home.
Visit a “Pick-Your-Own” Orchard
Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and peaches are ripe for summer fun. Choose a local orchard, set a spending limit before you go and bring your fruit home for snacks, smoothies or homemade desserts.
Take a Bike Ride
Explore your neighborhood or head to one of the many bike trails in Pennsylvania (opens in a new tab). Pack water and snacks before you leave to avoid extra stops (and spending), and invite friends or neighbors to make it feel like a group outing.
Volunteer
Summer is a great time to give back as a family. Look for nonprofits with year-round needs, such as food banks, animal shelters or community organizations. Volunteering can fill a free afternoon while teaching kids the value of showing up for others.
Visit the Library
Many libraries offer summer reading programs, story times, craft days and other activities for kids. Sign up for a library card if you don’t already have one, then check for free events.
Plan a Neighborhood Get-Together
Bring people together with a simple backyard barbecue, sidewalk chalk contest or pick-up basketball game. Keep it budget-friendly by making it a potluck and using supplies you already have.
Smart Ways to Save on Summer Fun
A little planning goes a long way when your calendar starts filling up. Set a weekly summer fun budget, check for free local events and pack essentials—like snacks, drinks and sunscreen—before heading out. Another tip is to look for ways to make your dollars go further, such as using some Members 1st credit cards (opens in a new tab) to earn cash back or points on purchases.
You don’t need an expensive vacation (opens in a new tab) or a packed schedule to make summer memorable. With a flexible budget, a few creative ideas and a willingness to keep things simple, your family can enjoy the season without stretching your wallet.
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