Frugal summer activities that can be done outside the beach

Frugal Summer Activities That Can Be Done Outside the Beach The warm summer breeze invites us to spend more time outdoors. While this is the best time to go to the beach, summer need not be limited to beach bumming. There are other activities that don’t require wearing bikinis, bathing under the sun, and paying to go to a beach resort.

If you’re looking forward to spending the summer outside of the beach, then we’ve got you covered. Enjoy the sight of blue skies, plus the lush green scenery with your family and friends with these frugal activities you can try this summer vacation.

Picnic

You can perch on the green grass while having a fun chitchat with your family at a picnic.

If your parents are too preoccupied with work and can’t fly away from the city, invite them to have a picnic at a nearby park instead. However simple it sounds, picnicking can be extraordinary if planned very well. Find a nice picnic area near your home: a garden, a park, a public beach, a mini-forest can be a good choice. Then select a theme for your small get-together to make it more exciting.

Picnicking would never be complete without the iconic picnic basket. Decorate your basket and cutlery based on your chosen theme. If you choose a vintage theme, for example, pick all things rustic-inspired and pack them in your basket: from cutlery, to plates, and picnic blankets.

Depending on your theme, decide if you want to prepare a lavish meal or make a set of picapica (finger foods).

Lastly, create a program of activities aside from talking with family and friends. Someone can bring a guitar and others can sing, while other pals can do poetry reading. Make sure to prepare something that everybody can join in.

Hiking

Get closer to nature with hiking and nature tripping.

Hiking is becoming a trend in the Philippines, and you surely don’t want to miss out on this fun activity. You can get closer to nature without spending extravagantly because there are a lot of hiking areas at nearby provinces, not to mention the rewarding side trips to stunning waterfalls and rivers on your way to the peak. For beginners, you only need to be physically prepared based for the peak you mount, and courageous enough to start your first hiking experience.

Read: Superb Spots for Camping, Glamping, or Having a Picnic in Manila

Prepare a set of proper clothing and essential gear such as jogging pants, dri-FIT shirts or rash guard, head gear like a cap or a scarf, and thick-soled hiking shoes. The golden rule in hiking is to pack light because you are going against gravity. Make sure to bring a durable but light backpack and prepare the following: a mini flashlight, tent and sleeping bag (for those who are going on an overnight trek), towel, insulated gloves, extra clothes and socks, rainproof gear, and a thick jacket.

Hiking can be physically exhausting, so don’t forget to bring food and water. Basic trail food such as candies, nuts, biscuits, and canned goods can be helpful through the tiring day. Bring enough water and remember to hydrate regularly.

While the mountains can reward you with stunning panoramic views and memories, always remember to respect nature and leave no trace.

Kite Flying

Kite flying is a fun activity for kids and adults.

Kite flying is a fun activity which can make you believe in the saying, “The sky is the limit.”

Adults and children alike can enjoy the bliss of flying kites during dry, windy days in many parts of the Philippines. It’s time to drag your kids outside and let them forget the internet for a while!

Kites originated in China and were used for wind testing, measuring distance, as well as for communication and military rescue operations during the Medieval Period. Today, it is now a source of fun for families and kite enthusiasts. From the traditional diamond shape, kites can now be whatever you want to see in the air—may it be a big butterfly, your country’s flag, or your favorite Marvel superhero. And nope, you don’t have to spend much on the materials because you can use recycled materials for your kite.

One of the groups which aim to revive and promote the culture of kite flying in the country is the Kite Association of the Philippines (KAP). This non-profit group organizes kite flying events and competitions where they show their passion for kite flying as well as kite making.

Fishing

You can still enjoy an activity near a body of water with fishing.

Aside from bathing in pristine beaches, there are a lot of things to do in Philippine seas, and that includes fishing. It sounds relaxing because throwing a hook and catching fish don’t require much energy compared to swimming, scuba diving, or snorkelling.

You don’t have to go to a decent beach resort to be able to fish and bond with your family. Being an archipelago, the Philippines has a long list of fishing spots. It can be a nearby bay or a lake.

You only need to have a fishing rod and some bait. You can use biscuits, small bits of dog food, candies or raisins as a lure.

Read: Top 10 Best Beaches in the Philippines 2017

Visiting Museums

Visitors can admire artwork at museums which offer free entrance.

Recently, the National Museum of the Philippines has announced that they are permanently giving free entrance to all their visitors. This is a very good opportunity for locals to finally learn and appreciate our own culture and recognize how great Filipino artists are.

You can bring little kids not only to art museums but to all kinds of museums, whether science museums, book museums, or history museums. You’ll be surprised how the displays can stimulate their curiosity. Museums spark the imagination, enrich our knowledge, and give a different kind of experience for all the visitors.

Read: New Detours for the Kids and Kids at Heart The things you can do during summer are not limited to this list. But if you’re running out of ideas (and money), you can resort to these activities that barely cost a thing.

After all, the time and adventures you spend with the special people in your life are the ones that truly count.