Summer break is exciting for kids, but it can be one of the most expensive times of the year for parents. Even if you’re choosing free or low-cost activities, it’s easy to spend more than expected once you factor in gas, parking, snacks, or lunch. A little planning before you head out can help you enjoy the day without wondering where all the money went.
Affordable Chicago Activities That Deliver the Most Value
Choosing a free or low-cost activity is a good place to start. Chicago has many parks and nature preserves that are free, like the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary and Lincoln Park Conservatory. The Chicago Public Library offers free events for kids like story time, summer reading challenges, and crafting days. And many neighborhood festivals are technically free, even if donations are requested.
Before you decide where to go, think about everything that comes with the outing, not just the activity itself. Sometimes a free event closer to home costs less than driving across the city for another free attraction.
Plan the Whole Day, Not Just the Activity
Where you can really make a difference in how much of your summer budget you spend comes after you’ve picked a free or low-cost event. Planning ahead of time helps. That might mean researching free parking nearby, even if it’s a 10 minute walk away from your destination. Or it might mean making a homemade lunch and packing it in the cooler in your trunk so you don’t need to buy lunch at a food stand or restaurant.
If you’re interested in a ticketed event, check whether discounts are available and see if you qualify for them. Many Museums in Chicago have free admission days throughout the summer, too. Before you leave, check the event or venue’s website for parking information, admission rules, and any schedule changes. A quick look ahead can help you avoid surprises once you arrive.
Also plan your budget ahead of time, and decide how much you’ll spend before leaving home. If you’re paying in cash, it helps to bring only the spending money you plan on using. In the days leading up to your outing, try to focus on limiting your extracurricular spending and doing low-cost things at or near home, like going to a public pool or playing in the park. That way, you’ll feel more comfortable spending the money you’ve budgeted for the outing.
Planning a road trip, too? If you’re worried about leaving your car in the summer heat, check out our tips on how to keep cars from overheating.
Make Summer Errands Part of Your Plan, Too
Before deciding how much you want to spend on weekend activities, it’s helpful to take care of the financial tasks that are already on your calendar, like paying bills or doing a big grocery run. With these essentials already handled, it’s easier to enjoy your weekend without worrying about what still needs to get done.
At Cash2Go, you can cash your paycheck, pay bills, and send money to family during one visit. Once you’ve done everything you need to do, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what you can comfortably spend on weekend activities. Some weekends might call for a trip to the park or community pool, while other times you may be able to have a big family outing. Either way, you’ll be making that decision before the weekend begins instead of guessing once you’re already out.
Make the Most of Summer Without the Last-Minute Stress
Spending time with your family shouldn’t come with unexpected financial surprises. When you plan ahead, it’s easier to enjoy the little moments, whether you’re watching a free concert at a park or taking your family to the Museum of Science and Industry. Before the weekend begins, stop by your nearest Cash2Go location to cash a check, pay bills, or take care of the financial errands on your list so you can spend more time enjoying summer together.