If you’re like many families, Fall Break is an opportunity to catch your breath after a busy season of back to school and sports seasons. Many of us don’t have the time or budget to take a full blown vacation, but we may find ourselves wanting to break routine and/or create some memories. These affordable Fall Break ideas will help you do both when you’re limited on money and minutes.
Stock the Fridge
It may sound a little counter-intuitive, but if your family plans on being home for the entire week, it’s a great idea to begin by meal planning and then heading to the store. Whether it’s quick and easy meal kits or special favorite foods, plan on a decent grocery haul to get you through the week. It may be a bit pricier than your regular trip, but still more affordable than hitting the drive through every day of the week. Make good use of free pick up services if you’re short on time or prefer not to get out.
Make a Recipe with Grandma
Depending on their location and health right now, your kids may not be able to physically travel to Grandma’s right now. But that doesn’t mean they can’t have fun in the kitchen together. Collect ingredients and bake cookies together via Zoom or FaceTime with Grandma. Depending on your kids’ ages, they may be able to do this on their own. We’ve gotten creative with quality time over the last two years, but I still forget how wonderful this sort of activity is for everyone and easy too. You could also opt to do a special craft, color, or even put together the same puzzle at the same time.
Host a Holiday Movie Marathon
Almost every streaming platform released fun holiday classics at the beginning of October. Now is the time to put on your comfy pants, pop some popcorn, make some hot cocoa, and snuggle in for a movie or three. Whether you choose a Halloween theme or even jump ahead to Christmas, you can create your own film festival. You could even toss together an affordable projection set up and watch a few flicks outside with friends.
Go on a College Visit
If you have older kids, you may want to consider hitting a campus this week. Whether you choose to head to your old stomping grounds or tour a nearby university you’ve never been to, it’s a great idea to get a feel for college. For high school kids, it’s never too early to begin investigating their next steps. Contact the admissions office for an official tour, browse the bookstore, grab a sweet treat, and enjoy the space many campuses have. Bonus points if you visit a student you know and feed them dinner!
Take a Hike a Day
Fall weather is prime hiking weather. You may choose to hit the trail close to home or head to a park you’ve never visited. Planning out a daily hike is a great way to get exercise and do something out of the norm without dropping a ton of cash. Pack your own water and snacks. Google interesting spots within an hour’s drive. Play on the playground. Create your own photo scavenger hunt. Listen to a great playlist or audiobook on the road.
Rent an overnight Getaway
While you may not be able to afford a week’s beach vacation, maybe your budget allows a night or two at a quick getaway. This may be as simple as a local hotel or you could look into renting a house or cabin or a platform like VRBO or Airbnb. Use a cash back site like Rakuten to access Hotwire for cash back and potential discounts. Work the filters on any platform you use, so you see only your dates available and price range. Read reviews thoroughly as well to ensure it’s the best possible stay.
Go to a Local Museum
Outdoor historical sites, special exhibits, and even local small museums. You can learn a little something, spend less than a pricey vacation, and support the efforts of local institutions. Be sure to check out Visit Indy and the destination’s website to look for discount days and coupons. You may also need to purchase tickets in advance as audiences may still be limited.
I’d love to hear your budget fall break ideas, too. Are you traveling? Staying home? How are you saving money this year?
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