Cool down and chill out this summer - without spending loads of cash

Summer is here with a vengeance and it’s HOT!  The kids might be back at school but in the afternoons and on the weekend those little munchkins are looking for things to keep them occupied without burning up. The good news is that family fun doesn’t have to cost a fortune – here’s our top tips for family activities that will help you to cool down and chill out this summer without spending a fortune doing it.

1. Hit the beach
There’s nothing better than a refreshing dip in the late afternoon. So when the kids are back from school why not get them to help you pack up a beach picnic for dinner and then head down to your favourite spot for some afternoon family fun and exercise.

2. Dine in movies
Everyone loves the movies but it can be a very expensive outing with the kids in tow. But doing it at home can be half the cost and twice the fun when you go all out - make sure you include lots of ice cream and popcorn! 

Streaming companies like Stan and Netflix offer unlimited viewing of movies and it’s super-cheap (under $10 a month). Both Stan and Netflix give you your first month free so it costs nothing to check it out but if you want to stream to your TV you’ll need a Google Chromecast device which costs around $50, or Apple TV which costs around $250.

3. Get that air conditioning you’ve always wanted
Nothing cools you down over summer like air conditioning and if you check out your local auctions you might just find yourself a fantastic bargain. eBay and Gumtree often have good deals and of course make sure you check out the sales at your local appliance store.

Can’t afford air conditioning? With a mini loan from Safe Financial you could be chilling out by the end of the week! Get your air conditioning now and then repay it over time.

4. Bowl ‘em over
When it comes to activities for kids, it’s hard to go past bowling. It’s loads of fun, doesn’t cost a lot and you get to enjoy an afternoon in air-conditioned comfort. Set up a competition for the first strike so everyone has a stake in the game, or just sit back and relax with a cold beer while the kids have some fun – whichever way you choose to play it, it’s a cool idea to chillax for the afternoon.

5. Hit up some history
If you haven’t hit your local museum or art gallery for a while you might be in for a surprise. Not only are they a great way to keep the kids entertained, they engage and educate at the same time – so you’ll come out knowing a whole heap of things you didn’t know before you went in! It’s a great way to spend a relaxing day where you can chill out with some great family activities.