summer activities

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Favorite Summer Activities?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 08:30:05 +0000

Many families like to plan trips and activities over the summer while the kids are out of school. Even if you don't have kids, the warm weather makes it really easy to want to be outside and, you know, do stuff!

What are your favorite summer activities? How do you keep your summer outings budget-friendly? Are there any local events that you like to go to during the summer?

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Tell us about your favorite summer activities and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Fun Summer Camps for Adults

Mikey Rox — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 08:00:11 +0000

Craving a swig of that sticky-sweet bug juice? Itching to relive childhood memories hiking, biking, and creating arts and crafts? Whether you're a summer camp veteran from back in the day or making up for lost time as an adult, check out these fun ways to act like a kid again at a grown-up summer camp. (See also: 6 Affordable Kid-Free Vacation Ideas)

1. Club Getaway

I was a camp counselor on and off for 10 years, and I've always been a bit envious of the kids who were able to spend their summers sleeping in cabins, making friends, and receiving care packages from family members. That's something I never got to do as a kid. So when I learned about Club Getaway, located in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Kent, Connecticut, I had to book a stay. I've been back nearly every year since 2009, because it's that much fun.

For adults-only weekends, Friday evening kicks off with a welcome party with drinks and appetizers and a DJ, followed by a full dinner with — brace yourselves — unlimited wine included in the package. In fact, every dinner at Club Getaway features unlimited wine. (I'm not saying I go just for that, but I might go just for that.) After dinner on arrival night, there's a party with plenty of dancing and a cash bar, or you can hang around camp doing your own thing.

After an amazing buffet breakfast the next morning — the food at Getaway is legit, folks — you can spend the whole day participating in traditional camp activities like volleyball, rock climbing, and canoeing. Or you can try a few activities that are new to you, including learning how to fly trapeze, water skiing, or visiting a nearby winery. There's a whole list of other activities available, too. In the afternoons, there are cookouts and games plus open lake time featuring water inflatables, followed by themed dinners, live music, and bonfires.

There are plenty of weekends from which to choose if you want a specific experience, like young professionals, sports and adventure, LGBT, Gen X, and holiday weekends, the latter of which are usually three days (sometimes four) instead of regular Friday to Sunday sessions.

Cost with taxes run about $500 per regular weekend and about $575-$600 for extended weekends, all of which are all-inclusive except for alcoholic beverages outside of the wine they include with each meal (though the camp does offer an all-inclusive alcohol package add-on). You can save by booking early — Club Getaway offers early bird discounts in January via email, and you can knock a few bucks off as a returning guest and by referring friends.

While I'm not a spokesperson for the camp, I personally don't think there's a better value out there for a weekend away while relaxing, having fun, and making new memories. Plus, if you were to add up meals, two or three nights in a hotel, and fun outdoor activities, you could easily spend more than $500, so you'll likely save some cash by enjoying all that Club Getaway has to offer.

2. Camp No Counselors

Because I've been to Club Getaway so many times, I've often thought about switching up my summer camp routine, and at the top of my list is Camp No Counselors, which has locations all over the U.S., including Boston, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and a couple in Canada. While CNC offers many of the same activities as Club Getaway, the biggest difference is the open bar that's included with your reservation, starting with mimosas and bloody Marys at breakfast. When you're not stuffing your face with chef-prepared food like baby back ribs, skirt steak, grilled chicken, and fish tacos, you can explore your adventure options, like sailing, wakeboarding, ropes courses, and paddle boarding, among dozens of other offerings.

But let's get back to the booze. Beer and wine is available at lunch, and from happy hour through the night, and there's a full-service open bar. With your drink in hand, you can dress up for a costume party, enjoy a live show, and dance into the wee hours with world-class DJs. Dates for camps vary from city to city, as they're not held every weekend in every outpost — with September offering the most opportunities to attend. Most weekends, which usually run from Thursdays to Sundays, start at $575 and $650. CNC also offers three- and six-month payment plans if you can't pay the full price at the time of booking.

3. Soul Camp

Health and wellness enthusiasts will love Soul Camp, which offers three-day sessions in New York and California, complete with communal or private cabins, wellness education, pool parties, and lake and river activities.

At Soul Camp, you can participate in intensive and in-depth yoga training and other healing experiences, including astrology, tarot, life and health coaching, and meditation. You'll also get the change to explore during excursions to Kings Canyon National Park and Pine Flat Lake in California and the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Meal times serve "healthified camp food," and traditional camp activities like dance parties and bonfires also are included.

Prices are a little steeper here — starting at $899 for the New York location before April 1 — but they sometimes offer a $200 limited-time discount, and monthly payment plans are available. There's also early-bird pricing that runs continuously throughout the spring and summer, which at its peak, saves up to $1,000 on a weekend.

4. Camp Bonfire

There's only one weekend scheduled for Camp Bonfire — this year it was held in mid-June at Lake Owego in the Poconos — but I wanted to include it because it's unlike any other adult camps out there.

The regular fee for this camp, which includes all the traditional and nontraditional activities (like Quidditch, terrarium making, and "lemon jousting"), plus six meals from Friday evening to Sunday lunch (including drinks and lots of snacks throughout the weekend), is $475. If you've got a little extra cash to spare, you can choose a Benefactor Registration at $550, which offsets the cost of camp for a would-be camper who can't afford the $475; and for those folks, there's a Campership Registration, which lowers the cost of the weekend to $400. If you're rolling in dough, you can opt for the Super Benefactor Registration at $950, which covers the full cost of camp for another, lower-income camper.

Neat concept, I think, and an easy way to commit an act of kindness. Something to consider for next year. Plus, a portion of every sale goes to Philly-based Camp Sojourner, which "helps girls become leaders who take charge of their own lives and act as agents of positive change in their communities."

5. Zombie Survival Camp

If you're worried about the impending zombie apocalypse (because it's definitely coming!), Zombie Survival Camp is right up your alley. Located in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, this day or weekend camp provides intimate, one-on-one expert instruction on how to navigate a zombie invasion, including tactical skills taught on a 60-acre facility that includes a rustic farmhouse, outbuildings, and a shooting range. Ages 15 and older can attend day camps (24 participants total), while full weekends are for folks age 21 and older (15 participants total). You'll learn Zombitsu, a hand-to-hand fighting style developed by ZSC trainers; first-aid techniques; knife throwing and crossbow skills; how to build a bug-out band, and more.

Weekends are all-inclusive with lodging, meals, and activities, plus booze, games, and bonfires in the evenings. Day camp is $179 per person while weekends are $450, both payable in two installments. (See also: 5 Affordable Vacations to Please Every Age Group)

6. Space Camp

Didn't grow up to be an astronaut? Don't sweat it. Adult Space Academy, at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, welcomes people age 18 and older to spend a few days as an astronaut as you train on their Multi-Axis Trainer, build and launch your own rocket, complete team-building exercises on a ropes course, design a protective heat shield, and perform an extended-duration simulated mission. Three-day sessions cost $549 and include meals served in the Space Camp Crew Galley, and lodging is in their Habitat facilities.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Fun Money Reads to Take to the Beach

Paul Michael — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 08:00:38 +0000

Whether you're planning to spend a week in a lounger by the pool, or are jetting off to the beach for sun, sea, and serious relaxation, taking a book is a smart way to pass the time while soaking up those rays. And so often in life, we never find the time to educate ourselves on something that really matters: our money. When we're in control of it, we have more time, more freedom, and more choices.

The following 10 books are not only educational, but they're fun reads that will get you excited about money management. Most of them are available to buy in multiple formats, including eBook and audiobook, and are available at your local library at no cost. (See also: 6 Personal Finance Books You Should Read)

1. You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth by Jen Sincero

"If my broke ass can get rich, you can too." That quote, from the #1 New York Times best-selling author Jen Sincero, should be enough to motivate anyone to grab a copy of You Are a Badass at Making Money and read it cover to cover.

Written playfully, with just the right amount of candid sass you need to pull you out of the money rut you're in, this is a book that is easy to read and impossible to put down. Sincero recalls her meager existence, with no money in the bank and a diet of cheap junk food, that made her realize she was not living the life she could. Within a few years, she had gone from money train wreck to financial guru, and she's not going to keep any of it a secret. Buy this book, read it at the beach, in the bathtub, on the sofa, or in bed; just read it, and be inspired to transform your own life into the one you feel you deserve.

2. Money for Nothing: One Man's Journey through the Dark Side of Lottery Millions by Edward Ugel

Wouldn't it be great if you won the lottery? All those millions. No more job. No more worries about bills to pay, rising health care and education costs, and how you'll ever afford to take a vacation. Well, be careful what you wish for. That's the premise of Edward Ugel's fascinating, terrifying, and incredibly funny book about the plight of lottery winners, and the system of legalized gambling that has become ingrained in modern American life. From the unscrupulous tactics used to get us all vying for the jackpots, to the way millions of dollars can actually become a burden, Money for Nothing is essential reading and what Portland's The Oregonian called "a jackpot of sleaze and hilarity."

3. Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together by Erin Lowry

This may be a book with "millennial" in the title, but it's a great read for anyone living paycheck-to-paycheck and desperate to find a little financial freedom. Sadly, with college loans becoming astronomical, and "McJobs" being the only ones available for some well-educated millennials, Lowry's advice hits the nail on the head for this demographic more than most. It's a case of taking a few steps back, looking at your finances with a fresh eye, and finally taking control.

This is not, however, a book that will tread mundanely through advice about credit card debt, loans, mortgages, and budgeting. It's replete with stories that will have you laughing out loud, and tips that are both simple and effective. Broke Millennial is a refreshing, inspirational read that will help you tackle all of your money problems without ever making you feel patronized or ashamed. There's even advice about how to deal with your partner's money issues.

4. Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter by Dr. Dan Ariely and Jeff Kreisler

If you're a lover of TED talks, then you're probably already familiar with the name Dan Ariely. This superb behavioral economist has given some of the most impactful presentations to date, including "Are we in control of our own decisions?" and "What makes us feel good about our work?"

Now, alongside writer and comedian Jeff Kreisler, he delves into the subject of money; and he does it with the same use of humor, engagement, and fascinating facts. Questions like "Why does paying for something feel like it's causing us physical pain?" and "Why do we pay $4 for a soda on vacation that we wouldn't even pay a $1 for at home?" are just a few he'll have you pondering while you turn the pages of Dollars and Sense. It's another easy read, and a real page-turner that leaves you so much more knowledgeable about money and human nature. And once you understand how those two things are connected, you'll have a better chance of overcoming the traps of spending.

5. Panic: The Story of Modern Financial Insanity by Michael Lewis

The stock market is a curious and unpredictable beast, and in Panic, Lewis dissects the biggest crashes in modern financial history. But don't worry, this isn't a tired old analytical look at the numbers. Michael Lewis is considered one of the "funniest serious writers in America," and you'll find evidence of that on almost every page. What caused the massive crash in 1987? What led to the internet bubble bursting, and the subprime mortgage disaster that cost so many people their jobs and their homes?

Yes, the book touches on many extremely serious subjects. But if you've ever seen the movie Moneyball, based on the book by Lewis, you'll know that he can make even the most seemingly-mundane statistics come alive. This is not just a book about money, but about human nature, greed, and corruption. Get ready for a roller-coaster ride through the biggest financial events of our lifetime.

6. Real Money Answers for Every Woman: How to Win the Money Game With or Without a Man by Patrice C. Washington

Don't let the title fool you, this is not a book just for the ladies. The advice in Real Money Answers for Every Woman works for everyone, and it's delivered in a "tell it like it is" Q&A-style that's incredibly easy to digest in both small bursts and long-haul reading sessions. As a reformed bad spender, Washington looks back on the excessive spending habits that almost ruined her by the tender age of 22. But she turned it all around by 25, learning all about finance, respecting money, and becoming debt-free … with her own real estate business to boot. You'll find invaluable advice on everything from paying off credit card debt and homeownership, to bagging affordable child care and negotiating a raise and promotion.

Get yourself a copy and start learning the habits that will get you feeling, and living the financially free lifestyle you've always dreamed of.

7. Get Smart!: How to Think and Act Like the Most Successful and Highest-Paid People in Every Field by Brian Tracy

Brian Tracy is an acclaimed business guru, speaker, and best-selling author. In Get Smart!, he brings his literal wealth of knowledge to you in a way that's easy to digest, and comes complete with handy exercises throughout. One of the startling facts presented by Tracy is that the average person uses just 2 percent of their mental ability. But if we all learn to think, act, and embrace the ways of successful people, we can unlock so much more of our potential and go on to lead financially-secure lives.

In short, if you think you can do it, or you think you can't … you're right. This is about harnessing positive thinking and using it to create success in whatever field you're currently in, or want to be in. Exercise your courage and get ready to become a much better version of yourself. (See also: 10 Books to Read for a Better Money Mindset)

8. F.U. Money: Make As Much Money As You Damn Well Want And Live Your Life As You Damn Well Please! by Dan Lok

Well, any book that talks about "F.U. Money" is already off to a fun start. This is the amount of money that would keep you comfortable enough to be able to quit your job, support your family, and eliminate your money stress. In fact, many conversations around the lunch table at work are about F.U. Money, and what you would really say to your annoying boss if you ever got it. This is your chance to make that dream become a reality.

Of course, F.U. Money takes the approach that dead-end jobs and soul-sucking careers are no way to live a life that is so short. If we're lucky, we get about 80 years on this planet, and do we really want to spend most of those stuck in a job we hate, day in, day out? This book gives you the tools you need to go out there and forge your own path. No relying on a corporation to pay your mortgage and your health insurance. No worrying about layoffs and backstabbing co-workers. If you want it, and you work hard, you can have the lifestyle you currently only dream of. Now, go and get it.

9. How Come That Idiot's Rich And I'm Not? by Robert Shemin

How often have you asked yourself that question? Seriously, you sometimes look at the person driving the latest BMW, rocking designer threads, and yet they can barely string two coherent sentences together. What have they got that you don't? Is it luck? An inheritance? Why are they swimming in money and freedom? How Come That Idiot's Rich And I'm Not? examines that in a fun and common-sense way, and you'll find it easy to flip through the pages and garner some excellent advice. Written in a way that isn't preachy, but is definitely persuasive, this is one of those books that gets you riled up enough to do something about that initial question.

10. The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a Fck: How to Stop Spending Time You Don't Have with People You Don't Like Doing Things You Don't Want to Do* by Sarah Knight

OK, so this isn't strictly a book laser-focused on money. But if you're looking for a very fun read that will have you literally rolling on the floor laughing, and will also help you live a better life, The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck is one for your next beach vacation. It's written with the kind of satirical swagger that makes you nod constantly, laugh out loud to an embarrassing extent, and also want to get to social media and share the advice with everyone you know.

You'll learn the "NotSorry" method of mental decluttering (who couldn't use that?) that will stop you from worrying so much about your physical appearance, the opinions of your co-workers, that insane family drama, and all the other nonsense that fills our brains to capacity. Flush it out, and you'll have the time and energy to focus on what really matters; and that includes getting your finances in order and creating a stream of income that comes from something you genuinely enjoy doing. If you can, find the audiobook narrated with passion by the author.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Cheap Ways to Entertain Your Kids This Summer

Sarah Winfrey — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 08:30:19 +0000

School will be out before we know it. As a parent, I understand that reality can be terrifying. After all, what are you going to do with the kids all summer? Will they spend another summer break playing video games and watching TV?

I don't know about you, but my kids do better when they are active and entertained, and I aim to keep them busy. Here are some ways I'll be keeping my kids moving a little more this summer, and how you can, too. (See also: How to Save Money on Child Care This Summer)

1. Throw a water party

Kids of all ages like to play with water. I'm planning a couple of days when my kiddos can each invite a few friends over and go water-crazy for an afternoon. We'll have water guns, water balloons, the sprinklers will be going, an old school Slip 'N Slide, and more. It will be a blast, won't cost too much, and they will run around all afternoon.

2. Show them how to grow veggies

Having a garden takes some work, and I plan to put my kids in charge of (at least part of) mine. Digging, weeding, and watering are all active tasks and, even better, they get the kids out of the house. I'll give them each a small plot in the garden and put them in charge of picking what to grow and the actual planting, watering, weeding, etc. (See also: 13 Simple Gardening Skills Anybody Can Master)

3. Have them create a funny video

Rather than have my kids watch videos, they'll be making their own. I'll encourage them to write the script, come up with costumes and props, and even shoot as much of it as they can themselves. It's cheap, it will keep them busy, and they'll have to exercise both their brains and their bodies to get it done.

4. Cook together

Most kids don't know how to cook, but I've found that they usually like to learn. As long as they don't feel like it's a chore and they aren't left entirely to their own devices, most kids are surprised to learn just how easy and satisfying it can be to throw a meal together. Plus, you'll finally have help with meal planning and preparation!

5. Teach them a new sport

Learning doesn't have to take place inside the confines of school, and kids can remember this over the summer. Take the time to learn some new activity with your kids. Try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking if you want to do something outside. Not only will you and your kids get out of the house and move, but you'll learn a new skill that will keep you active.

6. Wash the car

Going back to the idea that everyone loves to play in the water, put your kids to work washing cars, bikes, scooters, etc. The job has to be done anyway, so you might as well use it as an excuse to get your kids moving. They may resist at first, but after the hose comes on, most kids are more than happy to do these particular chores.

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This article is from Sarah Winfrey of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

These 8 Everyday Buys Will Be Cheaper This Summer

Ashley Eneriz — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 10:30:03 +0000

Once summer is in full swing, it can feel like you're paying a lot of money for air conditioning, and other necessities. However, there are several things that are actually cheaper during the summer months. In the summer of 2015, many factors caused huge price increases in food and fuel. However, this summer, these problems seem to be lessened, and our budgets will benefit for it. (See also: 9 Dumb Ways You're Going to Waste Money This Summer)

1. Beef and Dairy

Last year's big drought did a number on beef and dairy prices. While the drought is not officially over in some places, like California, the price of beef and dairy has decreased drastically for 2016. In fact, there's actually an oversupply of dairy and cheese right now, so stock up when prices are cheap. Most grated cheeses, feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese freeze well.

While you will see a significant decrease in savings in the meat section at your local grocery store, you will also see a bigger savings at fast food restaurants. The cheaper beef prices allow some fast food chains to offer aggressive deals, such as Taco Bell's $1 Beefy Crunch Burrito and the Cheesy Double Beef Burrito.

2. Eggs

Last May, a bird flu outbreak caused egg prices to soar in the Midwest. Thankfully that crisis has passed, and egg prices are now at a record low. However, chicken prices are trending higher due to heat waves. So choose egg salad over chicken salad this summer to enjoy the savings.

3. Gas

Usually gas prices seem higher during the summer, since many people use the hotter months to travel and vacation. This year, however, gas prices will remain low. Gasbuddy reported that the average gas prices were $2.23 per gallon in May, which is almost $0.50 cheaper than it was in May 2015.

To save even more at the gas tank, try planning your road trip during the cooler part of the day to save on gas.

4. Air Travel

When gas prices are down, flight prices are also down. In February, the Department of Transportation announced that the average cost of airfare was the cheapest it has been since 2010. Now with lower fuel costs, cheaper airfare will be able to stay until the end of summer. Airfare can eat up so much of your vacation budget, so don't miss out on the opportunity to travel with the low prices this summer.

Try booking your airfare on a Tuesday morning and follow the airline's social media accounts to take advantage of the best flight prices. (See also: 10 Flight Booking Hacks to Save You Hundreds)

5. Foreign Travel

Get your passports ready. Not only is air travel cheaper, but traveling abroad might make your dollar stretch further. A recent GOBankingRates survey found that the U.S. dollar was strongest in Argentina, Australia, and Europe. If you do travel, make sure to use a credit card that does not have foreign transaction fees.

6. Whole Foods

Whether you have been to a Whole Foods store or not, you already know that their prices are generally outrageous. Many people associate this chain with overpriced and overrated items. Luckily, Whole Foods is now opening a cheaper version of itself with a store called 365. The store is targeted towards millennial shoppers, with Teabot machines and lower prices. The first 365 store opened in Los Angeles at the end of May. Two more 365 stores will open this year in Oregon and Washington.

7. Cars

Generally, cars are cheaper during the summer because it is the end of the peak selling season. Look for special promotions and score a vehicle while interest rates are still low. Many car buyers wait until Labor Day to start looking at cars, but some dealerships will offer hard-to-beat incentives to move their old inventory.

8. Winter Wear and Gear

You don't want to think about snuggling up in a jacket when it's hot and humid out, but early summer is a great time to get the lowest prices for winter gear before the store gets rid of their inventory altogether.

What deals are you taking advantage of this summer?

This article is from Ashley Eneriz of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Dumb Ways You're Going to Waste Money This Summer

Dr Penny Pincher — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 10:00:09 +0000

There are a lot of great things about summer: long days, warm weather, and vacation season for families to do things together. But summer presents some unique opportunities to waste money. How many of these summer money hazards will leave you wondering where all your cash went? (See also: 7 Surprising Ways Summer Will Cost You)

1. Junk Food

It seems like summer is junk food season. Soda, chips, hot dogs, and ice cream are everywhere! If you go out for ice cream a few nights a week, this can quickly add up — as well as adding extra pounds. I remember when I was younger, I would get a 32 oz soda refill or other sugary drink at least once every day during the summer. Now I try to limit junk food for special treats instead of making it my regular summer diet plan. You'll be healthier and keep more of your money in your pocket by limiting your spending on junk this summer.

2. Air Conditioning

Sometimes on a pleasant evening or cool morning, I can hear the air conditioners running at many houses on my street. Once you get your windows closed and your A/C turned on, it is easy to leave it that way all summer. I try to leave the A/C off and windows open as much as I can. Using fans to move the fresh air around, I can often stay comfortable without running the air conditioning. It is expensive to keep your house like an icebox all summer, and keeping your windows closed isolates you from fresh air and the pleasant sound of birds chirping in the morning.

3. Driving Around

For some reason, people seem to spend a lot of time in their cars during summer. An air-conditioned car can be a comfortable place to be, but it costs a lot of money to drive around or even to run the A/C while parked. Sometimes going for a drive for something to do or to cool off ends up leading to a junk food purchase, adding to the expense of going for a drive. Instead of going for a drive to cool off, I like to relax in a lawn chair in a shady spot or sit outside after the sun goes down and the air cools down.

4. Movie Theaters

Another escape from summer heat and boredom is going to a cold movie theater for a few hours. This is even more expensive than going for a drive. The movie ticket price is often just the beginning of the cost of going to the movie theater. Many people buy popcorn and snacks, and it is easy to end up eating at a restaurant while you are out for a long activity like going to a movie.

Movie theaters are often attached to shopping malls, making it easy to walk around the air-conditioned mall before or after the movie and spend even more money. I don't mind going to see a summer blockbuster if there is a good one, but going to a movie once or twice a week is going to make your money evaporate.

5. Vacation

It seems like so much time and money are spent to travel far away from home for a vacation. Is what you are looking to find on vacation really that far away from home? Sure, it's nice to see different places and experience new things, but the most important part of a vacation is to spend time with people you care about. Is hustling around airports and moving from one tourist trap to another at an expensive vacation spot the best way to spend quality time together? Instead of spending big bucks to travel somewhere, I would rather spend time with my family at home doing projects and working on things together.

6. Summer Living Gear

Stores are happy to offer you ways that you can buy a great summer experience. How about some new patio furniture, lawn chairs, a sun shade, or even a new grill or lawn mower? Don't forget some brightly colored new summer clothes to wear while you are using your new summer stuff. You don't want to miss out on summer fun, so you'd better buy the required summer gear to make sure you have a great summer...

Think back to a great summer event or summer memory that you have. Now, can you even remember what kind of chair you sat in or what clothes you were wearing? Chances are that it doesn't matter. You can't buy a great summer experience by spending a lot of money at the store.

7. Pampered Lawn

I get a lot of flyers in the mail offering to make my lawn look great. With a little fertilizer and weed control, I'm sure my lawn could look more like green carpet. Not only do I get lawn improvement offers in the mail, but I even got one in person. My neighbor offered to let me use his giant lawn tractor and sprayer if I would buy chemicals to apply. It would be easy to spend hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars in pursuit of a more perfect lawn.

I think my lawn looks fine as long as I keep it mowed neatly. I don't like the idea of spraying chemicals on it, and I don't really mind if my lawn is a bit more natural than the lawns you see on TV. My dogs do a great job of fertilizing my lawn for free. (See also: How to Get the Greenest Lawn on the Block — Naturally)

8. Big Summer Toys

It is easy to get swept up by the appeal of a fun summer toy that the entire family could enjoy. Wouldn't it be great to have an RV, camper, boat, jet ski, swimming pool, or new bikes? You could get the toys right now to enjoy this summer and make the payments later. Some of these toys might fit on a credit card you already have, but if not you can sign up for a new loan and make easy payments. Don't forget to pick up a truck with towing gear for some of these big toys.

One problem with big summer toys is that you can only use them during the summer, but you will be paying for them all year long for many years. Plus, you may need to find somewhere to store your big toys when the summer season is over. What seemed like a great idea on a nice July day might seem like a dumb move only a few months later.

9. Expensive Summer Activities

Taking on expensive summer projects is a weakness for me. I would rather do something productive than relax, but it usually costs a lot of money to do projects. Projects such as landscaping or building a storage shed or playhouse are expensive and do not usually provide a good return on investment. A good way to work on an interesting project for free is to help someone else do a project at their house.

Some people like to relax during the summer, but this can still be expensive. Golf comes to mind as an expensive summer activity with all of the gear and membership fees that are required to play. Other expensive activities include some summer camps, sports camps, amusement parks, and horse riding lessons. If you check around, you might be able to find some affordable activities that are conveniently located close to home to keep your family entertained instead of spending a lot on more expensive activities.

What are some dumb ways that you waste money in the summer? Share with us!

This article is from Dr Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Favorite Frugal Summer Activities?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:00:05 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Matt, Pam R., and Pam W. for winning this week's contest!

Summer is almost here! The hottest season of the year can bring record temps — and many opportunities to have fun in the sun. Better yet, many activities are free or really cheap to do! You can go swimming, host a backyard barbecue, watch a movie in the park, or invite your friends to a beach party. The possibilities are endless!

What are your favorite frugal summer activities? What do you look forward to most this summer? Have you planned any special events for your family, friends, or just to do on your own?

Tell us about your favorite frugal summer activities and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win!

Mandatory Entry:

Post your answer in the comments below. One commenter will be randomly selected to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

For Extra Entries:

You can tweet about our giveaway for an extra entry. Also, our Facebook fans can get an extra entry too! Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of the other two Amazon Gift Cards:

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If you're inspired to write a whole blog post OR you have a photo on flickr to share, please link to it in the comments or tweet it.

Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, May 16th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after May 16th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
You can enter all three drawings — once by leaving a comment, once by liking our Facebook update, and once by tweeting.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook.
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Good Luck!

Tell us about your favorite frugal summer activities and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Summer Fun Freebies at Legoland and More

Amy Lu — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 19:00:10 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on freebies for summer fun, holidays for every day in June, and laundry tips and tricks you should know.

How to See the Summer's Blockbuster Movies Without Breaking the Bank

Dealnews — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 10:36:10 +0000

The summer's blockbuster movies are here (finally!) so you can give your Netflix queue a rest. Are you gearing up to see The Dark Knight Rises, Brave, and/or Prometheus?

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the cinema alone or with friends (so long as their A/C is working). But "the full movie theater experience" — complete with popcorn, soda, Snow Caps, and the like — can be pricey. Thankfully movie theater deals and discounts abound, and we've got some tips on how to enjoy the big screen films for a little cash. (See also: How to Watch Movies in the Theater for Free)

Firstly, let us state the obvious: see a matinee. According to Real Simple, catching the day's first screening can save you around $3 per ticket. For larger cineplexes, matinees usually start around noon, but most local, independently run theaters only open their doors around 5 p.m. on weekdays — the perfect time for a movie, then dinner.

If you can't make an early screening, or if you prefer to take in the sunshine this summer, and still want to get the most out of your movie experience, consider buying your movie tickets in bulk. With movie ticket admissions starting at just $7.49, BulkTix.com saves you at least $4 per ticket, and you'll receive free shipping on eight or more tickets via Google Checkout and coupon code "TURKEYTX".

But when eight tickets are too many (that's almost 16 hours of video if you view all the movies solo!), keep an eye out for Fandango deals: we've seen tickets valued at $12 for as little as $5 a piece. AMC Theaters is also no stranger to deals; in the last six weeks they've offered 4 AMC Silver Experience Movie Tickets for $24, Disney Pixar movie tickets for $6, and a free small popcorn promotion via Facebook. If you're loyal to a particular theater, consider setting up an email alert for that chain to be notified immediately the next time we inevitably find a deal.

If you don't want to dish out for your movie tickets in advance, Real Simple suggests that you see if your credit card company offers any perks. Right now Visa Signature cardholders can get free Fandango movie ticket when purchasing one at regular price on Fridays. Or join AMC Stubs for one year ($12) and you'll receive: $10 in rewards points for every $100 you spend at AMC Theaters, free upgrades on concession snacks, waived online ticket purchase fees, and more.

Speaking of discounted concession stand goodies, we often see both AMC Theaters and Regal Cinemas coupons for free or discounted small drinks, popcorn, available by just liking the CineMark Facebook page.

If you've got your own A/C and are without incentive to venture out into the summer air, keep your eyes out for deals like a $20 Starbucks card bundled with two complimentary movie tickets. This particular offer has sadly expired now, but movie tickets are a popular item to be bundled with gift cards, as well as DVDs and Blu-ray movies. In fact, right now, pre-order the new Men in Black III on Blu-ray and receive a free movie ticket to see Men in Black III in theaters. If you're hesitant to pre-order the 2-disc combo and 3-disc 3D combo of MIB3, the first two films are also bundled with the $10 movie ticket credit.

As a budget-conscious cinephile, you should keep all these tips in mind when planning future trips to the movies. But you should also be signed up for an email alert so you know immediately when we list such deals, which not only include the above promotions, but also free tickets to movie screenings.

This is a guest post by Dealnews.

Seeing summer movies is a great way to be entertained and beat the heat. But going to the theater can be crazy pricey — unless you save with these deals.

This article is from Dealnews of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Ways to Make the Most Out of Warm-Weather Weekdays

Mikey Rox — Fri, 20 May 2011 10:24:16 +0000

As someone who works from home all year round, I look forward to the spring and summer months.

During the wintertime, I hibernate — and that doesn’t bode well for my sanity.

But as soon as the sun starts shining and the temp starts rising, I’m out and about as much as possible. Even (and especially) after a hard day’s work.

To get you out of the house more, here are some of the things I like (and would like) to do on weekdays that allow me to soak up the rays and feel better the next day.

1. Join a Team Sport

Every city I’ve lived in has had adult rec leagues that offer team activities like kickball, dodgeball, soccer, mini golf, ultimate Frisbee, and more. I’m currently playing two sports on the NYSSC leagues. It’s a great way to keep moving and make new friends. My kickball team is currently in first place. Albeit, no thanks to me. Pssh, I'm not hurting myself for fleeting glory.

2. Cooks Meals in Advance

When it’s warm outside, I don’t want to spend my nights in front of a hot stove. To free up my time, I grill lots of chicken breasts on a Sunday morning, cut them up, and store the bite-sized pieces in a container in the fridge or freezer. When I’m ready to eat, I can pull out the container and make quick Caesar salads, quesadillas, or chicken-salad sandwiches. As I’m saving time, I’m also saving money. Heating up your home every night — especially when it’s hot out — makes your air conditioner work harder to keep it cool, which costs more money. Cooking one day a week saves you five days of unnecessary AC overdrive.

3. Grill Your Dinner

If you don’t want to spend your Sundays making a week’s worth of meals, that’s all right. I don’t always have time for that, either — and there’s nothing like food, fresh and hot. Whenever I have a chance to grill, I light it up. Burgers, shrimp, steak, baked potatoes, corn-on-the-cob… what doesn’t taste good from the grill? Quick, easy, and delicious — if you have the gas kind, that is. Charcoal grills are a waste of time and money. You can tell Weber I said that, too.

4. Exercise Outside

When May rolls around, I put my gym membership on hold. There’s no need to spend time sweating inside when I can save my monthly membership fee and sweat outside instead. Or, if you’re a true entrepreneur, you can forgo putting the membership on hold and lease it to someone who wants short-term access to your gym. I’ve done it before and it worked out beautifully.

5. Open the Blinds and Windows

Maybe you don’t have time to get outside. Fair enough. Bring the sights and sounds inside by opening the blinds and windows. Turn on some Calypso and shake your thang. (See also: 8 Tasks You Shouldn't Skip During Spring Cleaning)

6. Take Your Dogs to the Park

My dogs love going to the run. I don’t mind going either, because the one that we frequent has a bar. In my opinion, there’s no better way to chill out than having fun with my babies while sipping on a few beers.

7. Treat Yourself to Refreshments on a Patio

Sometimes, of course, I need a moment to unwind by myself. When I’m not taking my babies out, I like to visit a bistro around the corner that has outdoor seating and incredible happy hour specials like $4 glasses of house wine before 8 p.m.

8. Plan a Picnic

Turn off the TV, pack a basket, and find a shady spot at the park. The park is much less crowded during the week, so you’ll finally be able to relax. My go-to picnic dishes include chilled steamed shrimp, a fruit and cheese platter, and crusty bread with olive oil. A cool piece of lemon meringue pie helps satisfy that sweet tooth, too.

9. Catch a Free Event

Great activities are not limited to the weekends. Look at your local events calendar, and you’ll find plenty to do Monday through Friday. My all-time favorite is an outdoor movie series, which usually kicks off sometime in June, with each movie beginning at dusk once a week until mid-to-late August. Bring along a fold-up chair and a bag of snacks and you’ve got yourself a good, cheap night out that won’t leave you with a headache the next day.

10. Make Some Extra Cash

Search Craigslist for people in need of dog walkers, errand runners, or yard help. You’ll get your daily recommended allowance of vitamin D while making a few bucks in the process.

11. Run Errands Close to Home

There’s a misconception about New York City that everything is convenient. It’s not. The nearest post office is seven blocks away from me, and my bank is another five blocks away from that. That may not seem like an arduous trek, but just wait until the wind, rain, snow, and slush arrive. When it’s nice out, though, I like to walk to run my errands. I list what I need to do ahead of time then map it so I’m accomplishing my tasks efficiently. I feel even better when I break a sweat — because that’s means less time exercising. Which I hate (but have) to do.

12. Volunteer to Clean Up Your Neighborhood

Every neighborhood needs maintenance. Maybe not your own little slice of heaven, but I bet there’s something you could volunteer to beautify. Break out a broom and sweep the sidewalk. Pull the weeds out of a neighbor's potted plants. Help pick up trash near the church. All of these activities will keep your blood pumping and win you points with the old lady next door.

13. Wash Your Car

Why pay $20 to have your car washed? Unless, of course, there’s a whole bunch of home-from-college hotties doin’ the washin’. Yes, please. Barring that exception, grab your bucket, soap, and sponge and attack your Crud Mobile the old-fashioned way — with your bare hands and some elbow grease. But check the weather first. Nothing burns more than busting your hump scrubbing those hubcabs just have ‘em rained on three hours later.

14. Take Up Stargazing

I see no stars in the city — and that makes this idea all the more appealing. If you live somewhere where the halogen lights don’t keep you up at night, buy (or borrow) a telescope and search for signs of intelligent life. Lord knows I haven’t spotted any in a while.

15. Invest in a Hammock

Tie it to two trees and hop in. In your backyard. In the park. On your roof (if it comes with its own stand). Just remember that safety comes first, OK? I will not be held responsible for your silliness.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Surefire Ways to Save on Summer Camp Costs

Julie Rains — Fri, 13 May 2011 10:24:15 +0000

As a child, I always wanted to go to a fancy “Y” camp. Every year, representatives from Camp Thunderbird visited my elementary school to distribute glossy brochures showing children sailing on the lake, shooting arrows to an archery target, and more. Year after year, I asked my parents if I could go to this camp. They always said “no” because the cost was too high. (See also: Summer Freebies and Bargains for Kids)

I never quite understood their reasoning or the rationale behind the public schools allowing these spokespeople to promote a camp to children whose parents couldn’t afford the tuition. Wasn’t my enjoyment worth the money? Was the camp really too expensive?

The truth was that many camps offered meaningful experiences for much less. And they still do.

This year’s price for the dream camp of my childhood is $850 for five days or $1,700 for two weeks of overnight camp for non-Y-members; day camp for five days (Monday-Friday) is $350. This YMCA-run camp represents middle-of-the-road pricing — weeklong, overnight Boy Scout camp for my youngest son is $250; a two-week adventure camp on the coast runs $3,185, and a five-week wilderness session in the mountains is $5,650.

As a parent, you’ll need to decide what type of camp is best for your child and affordable for your family. Whatever you decide, you can save on summer camp in the following ways.

Use Commonly Available Discounts

Pricier camps tend to offer many types of discounts. Mid-range camps tout a couple of ways to save. Lower-priced camps rarely offer discounts. Ask camp officials about discount opportunities.

Early Registration

Multiple Registrations

Referral

Refer a friend to the camp and earn a bonus applied to camp tuition.

Hosting a Camp Party

You can host a home party, invite friends, and allow camp representatives to present guests with information on the camp in order to get a discounted price (think hostess gift for a Tupperware or Pampered Chef party).

Repeat Campers

Prices are lower for returning campers.

Multiple Sessions

Campers who sign up for more than one session in a summer may receive a discount.

Attend an Inexpensive Camp

You can send your child to a weeklong residential camp for less than $300 or day camp for less than $100. Types of camps with a low price tag generally fall into these categories:

Scout Camp

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts offer affordable options, but typically your children will need to be affiliated with a troop or council to attend.

Church Camp

Children may attend camps run by churches or religious organizations; teenagers may attend missions-oriented camps that combine work projects with fun and fellowship.

Sports Camps

Teams associated with community or school athletic programs may send their players to camp for skills instruction and team building.

Special Needs Camps

Children with special needs or medical conditions can participate in camps that have specially qualified professionals.

Enrichment Programs

School systems or non-profit groups may sponsor day camps for qualifying children (those with special talents and/or those who live in high-crime areas).

Special Interest Camps

Parks and recreation departments offer day camps that focus on specific activities such as golf, tennis, or basketball.

Apply for Financial Assistance

Most camps that cost over $1,000 have a formal financial-aid process that allows parents to apply for assistance. To verify financial need, camp organizers may ask for income tax filings and pay stubs.

Non-profit groups may also offer assistance, but the process may be less formal. For example, scout leaders tell parents that the cost of attending should not prevent any child from participation and ask parents to let them know confidentially if money is needed. Also, these groups may sponsor fundraisers throughout the year to help campers (and their parents) earn money to pay camp expenses.

Have you found ways to save money on summer camp?

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This article is from Julie Rains of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Train Now for a Summertime Family Cycling Trip

Julie Rains — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 13:00:21 +0000

Winter is a great time to get ready for a summer cycling vacation with your family. (See also: Summer Freebies and Bargains for Kids)

A couple of winters ago, I convinced my husband that taking the kids, then 15 and 12, on an organized cycling trip was a great idea. Actually, I persuaded him to sign up for the trip and withhold judgment on our family’s capabilities (individually and collectively) to ride over 150 miles in 4 days. My job was to prepare the family for this adventure. I discovered that there are really four components to getting ready for a cycling trip (or similar outdoor vacations involving moderate physical activity):

Fitness
Nutrition
Gear
Mental Readiness

Create a Trip Evaluation

Before you get ready, you'll need to know what you are getting ready for, so start with a trip evaluation. Note your trip's:

Distance
Average speed
Conditions

Getting the distance of a trip should be straightforward. I’ll mention, though, that the mileages for our trip were updated periodically as trails and road safety were evaluated and re-evaluated. There were also some optional miles for side trips.

For a casual trip, you may not receive information stating the average speed of the cyclists, but you can calculate this number using the schedule of activities. For example, if the start time is 9 a.m. and lunch is served at 12 noon at a site 30 miles from the starting point, then cyclists should average 10 mph to arrive on time.

Assessing conditions is the most difficult task. Look at:

Surface: Will you be riding on a trail where cars are prohibited? What type of surface is the bike path?
Support: Will you need to transport your own gear, such as tents and clothing? Are meals, snacks, and water provided by organizers? What type of overnight facilities are available — hotel, bed and breakfast, campsite? Will cell phone service be available if you have problems?
Climate: What is the average temperature? Will you need winter gear or rain apparel?

Having participated in cycling events with friends, I had the knowledge to get the family ready. However, finding time to train was a challenge with winter weather, short days, schoolwork, and real work persisting as interferences to a fitness regimen. Plus we had some false starts.

Our first training ride has become part of family lore in the “disaster” category: My youngest son collapsed (figuratively, though he did feign a near-physical collapse) after cycling about five miles on a multi-use trail. My husband, then 49-years-old and an occasional exerciser, wasn’t feeling energized either. I ditched my dreams of idyllic family outings in which we harmoniously enjoyed each other’s company as we pedaled happily, steadily, and swiftly. Then I developed and activated Plan B.

Fitness

To get ready for a cycling trip, ideally you and your family should take rides together on weekends, early mornings before work, or evenings after work (or during the day if everyone has a flexible schedule). Steadily you’ll progress toward your fitness goals and trip readiness. Specifically, you should try to attain the average speed for the longest-mileage day.

As I mentioned, my total-family approach didn’t work smoothly for us, so my Plan B was to get each person ready separately, even though we’d progress at different rates. My husband and I started by taking long bike rides on a greenway near our house on Saturday mornings and occasional evenings. Whenever possible, I took my 12-year-old during the week. Eventually, my husband and younger son rode together to take on more challenging distances. (I’ll note that this son was working toward a Cycling Merit Badge and was motivated to complete a series of rides including the capstone 50-mile ride.)

My oldest son didn’t take many rides with the family as he was working out with his high school football team. His physical strength, mental toughness, and youth — along with the right gear — allowed him to complete daily distances easily.

Here’s my approach:

Create and follow a plan that builds your mileage to the longest daily distance. Work out a few times each week, talking a long ride on the weekend and a couple of shorter rides during the week. Progressively increase the longest ride of the week, adding 15-30% in miles if possible until you reach your goal. If you are not able to ride during the week, do something: walk, take an indoor cycle class, swim, run outside, or lift weights.
Add speed. You don’t need to cycle 30 miles at an all-out pace to improve your fitness level. Quicken the pace slightly or put forth short bursts of intense effort and then slow down instead of stopping so that you’ll get used to continuous effort (and avoid sudden drops in heart rate).
Rest. Take breaks during the bike rides every 10-15 miles or so. Recover between workout sessions. If you are relatively new to regular exercise, you may need to take more than a day of recovery between rides. If you feel tired, slow down or cut your distances, or take an extra rest day.

As a note of encouragement, even if you walk a mile or so daily now, you have a better base level of fitness than you might imagine; getting to the next level is more attainable than you might realize. As a note of caution, don’t overdo workouts. Build up slowly, and don't try to set speed records.

Nutrition

Novices consistently underestimate the impact of nutrition and hydration in tackling a long or multi-day ride. Those seemingly average in fitness can ride for hours when taking in the proper fuel and plenty of fluids.

Generally, eating balanced meals and healthy snacks while avoiding fast food and processed food works well. My regimen is a fruit smoothie for breakfast with bananas, blueberries, yogurt, and orange juice; trail mix or energy gels for snacks; a sandwich and chips or pretzels for lunch; and a good dinner with protein, vegetables, and carbs, plus plenty of water and some electrolyte-laden sports drinks along the way. Others like eggs and toast for breakfast and peanut butter sandwiches for snacks, for example.

Here’s my approach:

Develop menus that suit your preferences (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks). Test foods, meals, and drinks to determine which benefit your performance and what causes problems.
Pay attention to your diet and fluid intake during the weeks of training as well as immediately before the trip, during the rides, and afterwards. Never start an event hungry or thirsty as you'll likely suffer throughout the ride.
Never try a new approach before or during a long ride. This idea is like #1, but important enough that it should stand on its own.

Gear

Bringing the right gear that is easily transported to the trip is a major consideration. Training sessions will give you indicators of what type of gear is essential. For more specific information, review trip packing lists, ask organizers for recommended items, and interact with ride veterans on trip forums (if available) to discover useful items that may not be mentioned otherwise.

Here’s my approach:

Find a bicycle and helmet that fit you and the cycling surface (that is, use a hybrid or mountain bike if you are traveling on a rails-to-trails trail or a road bike if you are riding on the road).
Bring a water bottle and other essentials in a bicycle bag, which should include a basic repair kit (bicycle tube, tool, and pump), snacks, and possibly a first-aid kit. Avoid carrying a daypack on your back as this arrangement becomes uncomfortable quickly.
Acquire additional gear as needed. These items may include a bicycle computer, moisture-wicking clothing (shirts, shorts, and socks), raingear, bicycle lock, and camping gear.

Renting bikes and other equipment makes sense if you are traveling a long distance for the trip, and you are confident that you can rent the right type of bicycle that is in excellent working condition and fits properly. Our family’s disastrous experience was due partly to a problem bicycle, selected hurriedly from a rental shop next to the bike trail. The chain fell off repeatedly and seemed permanently stuck in one gear, which didn’t allow for ease of pedaling. The owner helped us and adjusted our bill, but the experience taught me to be diligent in checking out rental shops and bike rentals.

Mental Readiness

Getting mentally ready is just as important as physical fitness. You don’t have to pursue mental toughness specifically. As you train and encounter challenges, make mistakes, and survive these experiences, you’ll develop mental toughness naturally.

Things that have happened to me, for example, include times when I started to become dehydrated because a rest stop closed early, ate a hamburger just an hour before a long and fast ride, pushed myself too hard in the early phase of a ride and struggled for the subsequent 20 miles, and cycled for hours in the rain. I've also heard "war stories" that included sudden muscle cramping and extreme fatigue during an epic ride a few days after donating blood.

These things are scary but they are helpful because they...

...teach you what not to do next time.
....help you to encourage others to avoid these problems or recognize what’s wrong when someone repeats your past mistake (instead of panicking).
...demonstrate your resilience.

Another way to build your readiness is by completing the longest daily distance and doing back-to-back rides. The intimidation of a 40-mile ride and riding multiple days in a row disappears if you have managed to conquer those challenges already. You'll also learn techniques for handling such exertion.

Don’t panic if you cannot take that long ride if you are otherwise healthy and fit, and the trip difficulty level is low. On a typical day, you'll have completed a workout plus all your daily chores (such as going to work, fixing dinner, and doing laundry), which can zap your energy. During the trip, all you have to do is ride.

To find a trip that's right for your family, talk to folks at your local bicycle, outdoor shop, and bicycle club; or investigate trips offered by Adventure Cycling, hosted by state agencies (such as the Katy Trail Ride in Missouri) and organized by adventure travel companies. To find trails suitable for family training, check out maps from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy or your local parks and recreation department.

If you have techniques for getting families or yourself ready for a cycling vacation, share them in the comments.

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This article is from Julie Rains of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Pursuing Interests: Free to $1K+

Julie Rains — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 16:00:00 +0000

Pursuing interests and learning new things, such as taking a class in environmental science, can be costly or not, depending on what your interest is, what happens to be available in your community or online, and how flexible your schedule is. If you or your family members happen to choose pricier interests, you can try to mix it up with some freebies of your choice.

Ideally, I'd like everyone in my family to have the same interests so that we can spend more time together and focus time and money on a few things (my choices would be swimming, hiking, canoeing, and cycling). My kids haven't conformed to my image and have pursued activities that I would never consider (community theater comes to mind).

So, I’ve been torn between spending Saturday mornings on my road bike and some other free time I might have in the gym. I don’t want to mislead anyone who might think I’m a fitness freak (not that there’s anything wrong with that) but carving out workout moments in addition to taking care of children, working, cooking meals, washing clothes, keeping up a social life of sorts, and more is daunting.

When Wall Street Journal’s Love & Money columnist Jeff Opdyke wrote about trying to find time (and money) to pursue new interests last Sunday, July 15, 2007, his article “So Many Interests, So Little Time” resonated with me.

Mr. Opdyke tells of the time and money his family spends on fun and enriching activities for the kids: soccer, baseball, dance, gymnastics, and piano are mentioned. His concern, like mine, is that the adults in the household may not pursue interests for themselves, such as language, art, or golf lessons. Some of you may consider this selfish; others, foolish. Whether you think that parents’ wants should be set aside or adults’ wishes honored, the dilemma of spending (how much?) and allocation (on whom?) exists.

What surprised me about this discussion the most, though, was that Mr. Opdyke budgets close to $300 per month for his kids’ activities (none for the parents, by the way). It made me consider how much I spend to let my kids pursue their interests.

My youngest has asked, on more than one occasion, if he could take Tae Kwon Do lessons. A school near us promotes itself heavily including offering special sessions at his public school and hosting kids’ birthday parties, one of which my son attended. I’ve resisted his pleas, and while I wouldn’t mind him benefiting from the exercise and discipline, I just can’t justify $50 per month for, well, indefinitely. Kids take lessons 3-4 times per week for a few to several years.

This summer, however, has been the most expensive ever (just under $1,500), mainly because my oldest child (a middle school student) is taking an online class in environmental science offered by a private university. The class and the cost was one that I considered very carefully but I decided that it was worthwhile for him to participate (it was really my idea and I had to convince him to sign up) because I wanted him 1) to get used to online class format with its discussion board and electronically submitted assignments, 2) to learn something about environmental science, and 3) to realize that there are some super-bright kids out there, who may one day (hopefully) be his university classmates or workplace colleagues.

The oldest also spent a week at a church camp/youth retreat in the mountains. My youngest child is participating in a public school-sponsored enrichment program and taking classes in science, scenery design, and sports.

Our spending during the school year looks quite different. Activities in the past year or so are listed here and free unless listed otherwise:

Community Theater

Cotillions (etiquette and dance, $75)

Odyssey of the Mind

Open Arms Community (outreach to children from troubled families)

Vacation Bible School (one son was a participant; the other, a youth worker)

Y League Basketball ($45)

Art Lessons ($90)

Swim Lessons ($45)

Church Youth Group (talk sessions, games, suppers)

At least one child has learned how to:

sing and dance in a group;

endure long theater practices;

interpret instructions as a guideline not a limiting force;

ask a girl for a dance;

be yourself and enjoy people actually liking you just for that;

give money to a cause that helps to alleviate hunger through sustaining agriculture;

swim backstroke;

relate to other people even when they're being annoying.

So, there’s our list of activities, not totally frugal but under $3,600 per year. As for me, I pursuing my interests, hoping to learn and grow by being involved in a book club, helping kids to lead brainstorming sessions as an Odyssey of the Mind coach, figuring out cycling and endurance fitness, and maybe picking up a new language soon (Spanish, sign language?), with costs ranging from free to much more for equipment and training facilities. If you (as an adult or a child) have participated in a particularly life-enriching activity, especially one that costs little, please share your experience.

Photo of Environmental Science textbooks by me

This article is from Julie Rains of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Summer Reading Made Easy

Julie Rains — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 17:08:38 +0000

If you're a mom, dad, grandma, granddad, aunt, uncle, big sister, big brother, friend, or tutor, you will most likely find yourself spending time with a child this summer.

Kids ought to be spending some time outside, catching frogs, building a fort, furnishing a fort, playing baseball, or doing something that is pure fun, costs nothing, and requires little adult supervision. But they may be inside on an extremely hot day, thunderstormy day, or just time-to-rest day. When my kids are in, it takes some nudging but I like them to read just a little something.

I wish they would wander over to the library, peruse the offerings, and pick up a few great books. But that's not been happening, so I want to hand them a book I'm nearly 100% sure they'll like. A couple of summers ago, that was really easy when my youngest was into The Magic Tree House series. My oldest read nearly anything then but now that he's in middle school, he's gotten finicky.

As you most likely know, you can get a library card with access to its catalog that, depending on your particular system, should allow you to search the entire catalog, place a hold or reservation on a title, and request that the book be delivered to the library closest to you. I suggest the digital options because I find that during the summer, bookshelves are often picked clean of the most popular books; if I get on the waiting list, I can schedule my library visits for times when I know I will find what I want.

Other frugal options are to visit your used book store, and either trade in your used books or buy them at a discount; check out the offerings at Goodwill or yard sales; or borrow from and/or share with friends. Half.com is also an inexpensive option as are online booksellers of new, almost new, and used books if the previously listed sources don't have what you are looking for.

As an Internet surfer, I have discovered that uncovering book recommendations is easy; but sorting through long lists is tedious. Those lists with 10-20 recommendations suit me best. I've compiled some sources of book lists (with choices that my kids or I have read) and included some books I've enjoyed recently. Here are my ideas:

Emerging to beginning readers: check out this interactive storytelling, phonics site http://www.starfall.com/ (my dad, the elementary school tutor recommends it); read books by Dr. Seuss, which are fun and have wisebready messages, such as protecting the environment from exploitation of natural resources (The Lorax) and avoiding advertising-induced status symbols (The Sneetches).

1st through 3rd graders: let your kids see life through new friends' eyes, such as Jack and Annie of Magic Tree House books, Ramona, and Orville and Wilbur Wright:Young Fliers in the Childhood of Famous Americans series.

4th through 12th graders: choose from the book list developed by America's Battle of the Books (You don't have to compete to enjoy the books. Last summer, I used this list to find books for my middle-schooler; he enjoyed Peter and the Starcatchers and then devoured Stormbreaker and all of Anthony Horowitz's books.)

For grownups and near grownups: check out this banned book list, Wall Street Journal's bestselling business books, and Pulitzer prize winners (I have enjoyed reading the novels, which reflect the social and economic circumstances of the times. My library system has a listing of these titles as well as bestsellers on its main search page).

If you've got a great list or books to recommend, especially for kids' summer reading, let me know.

This article is from Julie Rains of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

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