Budget Friendly Outing Tips

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 Insta-worthy experience, all without breaking the bank! Here’s how.

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.

• Go stargazing on a clear night.

2. Take Advantage of Community Resources

Many 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 so many ways to get moving without spending money.

Budget-Friendly Activities for Staying Active:

• Join a free yoga or fitness class at the park.

• Organize a game of frisbee, soccer or volleyball.

• Go for a bike ride on a local trail.

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 social media posts and website. 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.

• Take advantage of memberships, such as annual passes to zoos or museums.

• Check with employers or professional organizations for corporate discounts.

• 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 is a fabulous way to enjoy food you love.

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.

• Bring a thermos of coffee or tea for longer outings.

• Avoid purchasing snacks at amusement parks or zoos, bring your own instead.

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.

• Small-town fairs or parades are charming and inexpensive.

• Go on a self-guided walking tour of your city’s historic districts.

• Visit free or donation-based 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.

9. Use rewards programs

Leverage points and rewards programs to cover part of your outing expenses. Credit card rewards, loyalty programs or app-based incentives can all add up to meaningful savings.

Examples of Rewards to Use:

• Redeem credit card points for dining or entertainment vouchers.

• Use loyalty rewards for discounted or free tickets.

• Utilize cashback apps for restaurant and attraction expenses.

You can have a fun day out and save money, too! Use these tips to get started. If you have any questions please stop by any of our convenient branch locations or call 248-322-9800 extension 5.

 

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