11 Fun and Affordable Things to Do With Your Kids While Traveling – Summer Wanderlust Tips
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, some of the most memorable family experiences come with little to no cost at all. As a family travel enthusiast, I’ve learned that the best adventures often don’t come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re on a tight budget or simply looking for ways to make your travel dollars stretch further, here are 11 super affordable (if not free) activities to enjoy with your kids while traveling. Plus, I’ve sprinkled in some Summer Wanderlust tips to make each experience extra special!
1. Go for a Nature Hike
One of the most rewarding activities for families is a good old-fashioned hike. Whether you’re in the mountains, by the coast, or exploring the countryside, hiking is an excellent way to introduce your kids to the natural world. Look for local trails, many of which are free to access.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Before you head out, grab a nature guidebook or download a free app to help identify local plants and animals. Turn the hike into a fun educational activity for the whole family!
2. Explore a Local Park
Parks are often free and offer endless fun for kids. Many parks have playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for flying a kite, playing tag, or just running around.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Pack a picnic basket with some healthy snacks and drinks. You’ll be surprised how much a simple outdoor meal can make your park visit even more memorable.
3. Visit a Farmers’ Market
Farmers’ markets are a fantastic place to get a taste of local culture without spending a lot of money. Stroll through the market, sample fresh produce, and engage with the friendly vendors. Some markets even have live music or free entertainment for kids.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Challenge your kids to try a fruit or vegetable they’ve never had before. It’s a fun way to get them excited about healthy eating while discovering new flavors!
4. Beach Day (or Lake Day)
Whether it’s a beach, lake, or river, water activities are perfect for family fun. Building sandcastles, swimming, or even just wading in the shallows can provide hours of entertainment.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: If you’re at a beach, bring along a beach ball or a Frisbee for some family-friendly games. Pack a small, easy-to-carry waterproof bag with a change of clothes and sunscreen!
5. Take a Free Walking Tour
Many cities around the world offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their city’s history and culture. It’s a great way to explore a new place and learn together without spending a cent.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Before the tour, prep your kids by learning a little bit about the city’s history. Try making a game out of spotting famous landmarks or pieces of local history along the way!
6. Visit a Museum on a Free Day
Many museums offer free entry on certain days of the month, or they may have free admission for children under a certain age. Look up local museums that align with your family’s interests, science, art, history, or even quirky and unique local museums!
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Check out interactive or hands-on exhibits for kids to get them engaged. Museums often have activity sheets or scavenger hunts that can make the visit even more exciting!
7. Go on a Bicycle Adventure
If your destination is bike-friendly, renting bikes (or bringing your own) and cycling around the area is a fun and affordable way to explore. Many cities have designated bike lanes, making it safe and enjoyable for families to ride together.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Plan your bike route around local parks, historic landmarks, or scenic viewpoints. Pack a small backpack with snacks and drinks for a pit stop along the way!
8. Attend a Local Festival or Event
Throughout the year, many towns and cities host free local festivals, parades, and events that are perfect for families. Whether it’s a cultural celebration, music festival, or art show, these events provide a fantastic way to experience local traditions without spending money.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Check local event calendars before your trip or ask locals for recommendations. Some festivals also have free craft workshops or kid-friendly activities that will keep your little ones entertained.
9. Take a DIY Art Tour
No need to visit expensive galleries when there’s street art to explore! Many cities are home to vibrant murals and public art installations. Taking a self-guided art tour is a fun, creative way to discover the city while getting your kids excited about art and design.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Bring a small notebook and ask your kids to sketch their favorite murals or street art. It’s a fun and creative way to get them involved!
10. Stargazing
If you’re staying somewhere with little light pollution, stargazing is one of the most awe-inspiring activities you can do with your kids. Lay on a blanket, look up at the stars, and watch for constellations or shooting stars.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Download a free stargazing app to help your kids identify constellations, planets, and stars. It’s a wonderful way to spark their curiosity about the night sky and space exploration.
11. Go to a Local Library
Libraries aren’t just for borrowing books, many have free family-friendly programs, such as storytimes, puppet shows, or craft hours. Check out your destination’s library calendar for free events, or simply spend an afternoon reading together in a quiet, cool space.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Before your trip, grab a few books on the region or culture you’re visiting. Kids will love diving into the local literature and learning about their destination before they get there!
Traveling with your kids doesn’t have to be expensive to be fun. In fact, some of the most memorable moments come from simple, free experiences that allow your family to truly connect with the destination. So, the next time you’re traveling with your little ones, try these budget-friendly ideas, and watch the magic unfold. Safe travels, and don’t forget to make it a Summer Wanderlust adventure!
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