There’s more for you to do this summer without blowing your budget

Is it just me or do people really spend more money during the summer months? Between trips to amusement parks, going out to eat and shopping for summer essentials, I spend a ton of money during the warm summer months. So this summer I’ve decided to make a list of activities that won’t require me to break open that emergency piggy bank of spare change.

1. Go to the Beach… and bring your own snacks. Maine has a ton of beaches, and going to the beach is free and can be an enormous amount of fun for friends, family and colleagues. Also, during the summer months the beach will be full of people of every age, creating an environment and atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Just make sure to pack your own lunches and snacks in a cooler. Being prepared with drinks, sandwiches and other items will save you money on concession stands and restaurants that are near the beach.

2. Have a movie night. Whether you use Netflix or a Redbox, renting movies is as easy as ever. Get a group of friends together and have everyone bring a movie, either from their own collection, or something rented and make an evening of it. Personally, my friends and I love B-list horror movies, so every few weeks we rent a movie, make some popcorn and prepare to mock some awful acting.

3. Workout in your neighborhood. My neighbor organized a weekly walk/run in my town, every Saturday morning a group of people will get together and walk/run through various trails and hiking paths in and around my town. Not only is this free, but it is a great way to get fresh air, exercise and connect with your neighbors.

4. Host a BBQ. This can easily be done on a budget. Offer to supply the location, grill and main dish, and have everyone bring a side dish or dessert. Not only will you get to hang out with friends, you never know when someone will bring a new recipe that you will love.

5. Break out the board games. When was the last time you played a board game? Dust off your favorite game, and call some friends; you’d be surprised how quickly Pictionary becomes competitive.

Jess H., Maine Credit Union League