In Austin, summer typically begins mid-March (temperature wise). But it really kicks off at the end of May with Memorial Day weekend. This summer, I’m trying to rein in my spending as much as possible, but I still want to get out and do things. Sometimes, that’s pretty challenging. But I’ve been brainstorming ideas about how to save money while still enjoying the season.

1. Go for free. Sounds obvious, but I don’t do enough of this. There are plenty of free things to do in the Austin and central Texas area as there are in almost every city. The key is finding out what they are. A quick Internet search will get plenty of results, but also take a look at local newspapers and online magazines. In my hometown, which is a lot smaller than Austin, they publish a yearly list of things going on in the summer. Try free concerts in the parks, free plays, food fairs, etc.

2. Carpool places. Search around your city for day trips and then get your friends to join. There are plenty of places within a couple hours’ drive of Austin that are free minus the gas. I hope to take a couple day trips this summer to get out and explore.

3. Take advantage of what you already have. I have an awesome pool in my apartment complex that I definitely need to go to more this summer. It’s free and fun. I also have a park nearby where I can go to play sand volleyball.

4. Look for special events with free food and refreshments. If you live in a bigger city, there probably are plenty of events going on where the sponsors are giving away free stuff just to get you to buy it in the future.

These are just a few ways to have fun in the summer without spending a ton of money. What’re your favorite things to do in the summer?