The summer holidays are fast approaching. It tends to be an expensive time when children are off school for 6 weeks. The cost of living crisis this year is also going to make the summer holidays harder financially on families. Planning is going to be key when it comes to keeping kids occupied/entertained and fed this summer. Below are some ideas to help you to save money during the summer holidays.
Food
During the summer holidays children tend to snack more and there is the expectation of treats such as ice cream. Here are some handy money saving ideas:
- Buy a multipack of ice creams/lollies instead of buying from the ice cream van. Another idea is to make your own ice lollies at home and it doubles up as a fun activity too.
- Pack a picnic, snacks and a refillable water bottle when going out. This way you can avoid expensive cafés and restaurants.
- If you want to eat out look for deals that certain cafés/restaurants have on in advance. Some places have Kids eat free with a paying adult or other offers.
- Meal planning is definitely a must for the summer holidays and helps to prevent waste.
Transport
Petrol prices are sky high at the moment so one of the big things you can do is walk more. If you are staying local than instead of popping in the car walk instead. If like us you don't drive and are heading further a field than book train tickets in advance. We also have a family and friends railcard that gets us a 1/3 off travel fairs which is definitely worthwhile.
Days out
Sitting down and planning in advance places you would like to go is a great starting point. Here are some days out money saving ideas:
- Write a list of free days out or cheap things that you want to do this summer
- Look for discounts online there are many websites that have discount codes for days out.
- Booking in advance often means you get a better deal.
- Consider getting a National Trust or English Heritage membership. It's worth looking into if you know that you will use it often and not just for the summer.
- Look into annual passes to places you know that you will visit often. It often works out cheaper the more you go.
Staying at home
Staying at home doesn't have to be boring!
- Compile a list of fun activities you can do at home
- Look on Facebook marketplace to find free or cheap toys such as bikes, scooters etc
