Summer days out can quickly become expensive, especially when you add up travel, food, activities and little treats. But having fun in the sunshine doesn't have to mean spending a fortune.
With a little imagination and a few things, you may already have at home, you can turn your local park, beach, garden or walking route into your own summer adventure.
Pack a Picnic and Pick a Spot
One of the easiest ways to save money on a day out is to bring your own food and drinks. Pack sandwiches, snacks and plenty of water in a cool bag or cool box, then grab a picnic blanket and find a nice spot in your local park.
Add a flask, reusable water bottles and some outdoor games, and you've got everything you need for a relaxed afternoon.
Turn a Walk into an Adventure
A walk doesn't have to mean simply walking from A to B. Pick somewhere you've never explored before and make a day of it.
Bikes can be a great way to cover more ground, while scooters can make shorter local trips more exciting. Just make sure you're using them somewhere suitable and following the relevant safety rules.
Take a phone or camera along and set yourself a photo challenge. Who can spot the best view, funniest sign or most unusual plant?
Get Competitive with Outdoor Games
You don't need an expensive attraction to keep everyone entertained. Pack a football, frisbee, tennis set or other outdoor game and head to an open space.
You could organise a mini tournament, create your own challenges or simply see who can keep a ball in the air for the longest.
For younger children, simple toys such as buckets and spades, kites and outdoor games can turn a trip to the park or beach into hours of entertainment.
Make the Most of a Free Beach Day
A beach day can be surprisingly affordable when you avoid the extras. Pack your own lunch, towels, drinks and games before you leave.
A beach shelter can provide some shade, while camping chairs or a picnic blanket can make relaxing much more comfortable. Don't forget a bag for wet or sandy clothes when it's time to head home.
Create a Summer Day Out at Home
If the weather is good but you don't fancy travelling, bring the day out to your garden.
Set up outdoor games, get the paddling pool ready, have a picnic on the grass or organise a family sports day. Even a simple garden can become a summer playground with the right activities.
On particularly warm days, water games can help keep everyone entertained. If you're using a paddling pool, always supervise children around water and follow the manufacturer's safety guidance.
Go on a Nature Hunt
Turn your local park or woodland into a giant treasure hunt. Before you leave, make a list of things to spot, such as different leaves, birds, flowers, insects or interesting rocks.
A phone or camera can be used to capture your discoveries, while a notebook and pencils can turn it into a simple nature journal.
It's free, educational and gives everyone something to look out for along the way.
Check What's Happening Locally
Don't forget to look for free events in your local area. Parks, libraries, museums, community groups and local councils often have activities and events taking place during the summer.
You might find an outdoor performance, family activity, exhibition or community event that costs nothing to attend.
Make Your Summer Memories Count
The best summer days don't always need a big budget. A picnic in the park, a bike ride, a day at the beach or an afternoon playing games can create just as many memories as an expensive attraction.
So, before reaching for your wallet, take a look at what you already have at home. A picnic blanket, cool bag, outdoor game, bike, camera or even a paddling pool could be all you need to turn an ordinary summer day into something special.