YHD - Low-budget Summer Fun

Low-budget Summer Fun

Is the rising cost of fuel putting a damper on your summer plans? Save on money on gas and discover what is waiting for you in your very own big backyard.

Growing up, camping was one of my absolute favorite family vacations. My husband and I go every summer and when we have kids we will no doubt continue the tradition. Camping is a fabulous way to get out of town without spending much, not to mention time it provides precious time to spend with family and friends sans the cell phones, computers, and televisions. It allows you to enjoy the great outdoors and participate in a myriad of outdoor activities. For just a few bucks a night, you can stay at a developed campground, meaning it has electricity and running water. Many campgrounds (namely in state and national parks) even have public (flushing!) toilets. Search online for campgrounds near you – my favorite is ReserveAmerica.com.

Living near the Wasatch Mountains (the western range of the greater Rocky Mountains) has given rise to my love of Utah hiking; the area is filled with hiking trails apt for hikers of all skills, from novice hikers to experienced backpackers. To find hiking trails near you, visit www.localhikes.com, which maps trails all over the country.

Live near the coast? Get a cheap motel for the weekend – many are only around $50 a night. Since you will be spending all your time outside on the beach, you will only be sleeping there for a few hours at night, so who cares if it isn’t the classiest place? If you prefer, bring your own bedding and enjoy a weekend of R&R on the beach!

Packed with new worlds waiting to be discovered, take a trip to your local public library and pick up a good book. What is more relaxing and enjoyable than laying out in the sunshine with a real page-turner?

Plan a B.Y.O.M. and B.Y.O.B. barbeque! Having good friends over for dinner is a blast, but can be awfully expensive, especially with the rising costs of food. So plan a barbeque with all your buddies and have everyone bring their own meat and alcohol, which are the two biggest food expenses when providing food for a large party.

Look up local attractions in your area, such as museums, art galleries, monuments, book signings, festivals, and free concerts.