Frugal Summer 2025 Bucket List

Summer is finally here, and if you’ve been around for any length of time, you know that I love a good summer bucket list. I also like to enjoy myself and relax without spending a ton of money. This foundation stems back to my single mom days several years ago when I made it a point to always find something fun and affordable for my son and I to do.

My budget was so tight, but I never wanted to tell him that we couldn’t enjoy ourselves because I ‘couldn’t afford it’. So I always found things to do from free festivals and local events to ‘kids eat free’ days at restaurants and kept it pretty frugal.

Over time and as my budgeting skills and income has increased, I’ve continued to prioritize living frugally but not making myself feel deprived or like I’m sacrificing my values.

This year, I wanted to put together a realistic, feel-good frugal summer bucket list that’s filled with fun, refreshing experiences that won’t disrupt my budget (I still have a ton of financial goals this year!). Some of these ideas have been on my list for a while. Others are new things I’m excited (and maybe slightly nervous) to try.

So here’s my official 2025 Frugal Summer Bucket List.

Ride My Bike Regularly

I feel like I add this to my summer bucket list every year… and every year I fall short. My neighborhood is super hilly, and honestly, the hills win every time. This year, I’m being more realistic with myself. Instead of forcing rides around my area, I decided to invest in a bike rack so I can transport my bike to flatter trails nearby.

My goal is to ride once a week, but I’m hoping that once I get going, I’ll ride even more. It’s free, great exercise, and a peaceful way to clear my head. So I’m making it happen this year.

Take Swim Classes

Here’s a personal one. I never learned to swim properly as a kid, and it’s something I’ve always wanted to change. I finally signed myself (and my son) up for a 6-week beginner swim class at the YMCA.

This is part skill-building and part pushing myself out of my comfort zone. It’s a budget-friendly way to learn something new together, and I’m really excited about it.

Take My Kayak Out a Few Times

I’ve been into kayaking off and on for years. It’s so calming and therapeutic. So last year, I finally bought my own kayak. But I never got around to using it.

This summer, I’ve already been scoping out nearby lakes and water spots in Tennessee. My goal is to take it out at least 2 to 3 times. It’s free once you have the equipment, and it’s one of those activities that I truly love and just feels like summer.

Visit 2–3 Waterfalls in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to some truly stunning waterfalls, and many of them are completely free to visit. I want to make the most of the natural beauty around me and visit at least 2 or 3 waterfalls this summer.

Bonus: These waterfall hikes make for great family day trips, cost little to nothing, and give me a good reason to pack a picnic and hit the road.

Related: Best Frugal Hobbies For Adults

Finish My New Fiction Book

I started reading a fiction book last year and then… life. But I really want to get back into reading for fun — just for me.

My small goal is to read for 15–20 minutes each night before bed. That’s it. If I stay consistent, I should be able to finish the book (and maybe even start a new one) before the end of the summer.

Related: Books I’m Reading to Improve My Money Mindset

Attend a Concert

Last summer, I went to Smokefest in Nashville and had such a blast. I’d love to go again this year and maybe find another local concert or outdoor music event too.

Concerts don’t always have to be expensive especially if you snag early bird tickets or check out free community music nights. This one will take a little planning, but it’s totally doable on a budget.

Solo Mini-Trip

This one’s already booked! My son goes to overnight camp for a week each summer, so I decided to plan a small solo retreat using travel rewards points.

I’m heading to a resort for 3–4 nights and keeping things super simple: rest, prayer, journaling, and a little solo adventure. I’m still planning out the details, but just knowing I have this time carved out for me feels like such a gift.

Related: 10 Ways to Afford a $1,000 Vacation

How to Plan a Frugal Last-Minute Vacation

Host an Event at Our New House

We just bought a home in Tennessee, and I’m so grateful. While we’re still settling in, I really want to host something small: maybe a housewarming party, a game night, or even a casual summer bonfire with friends.

Hosting doesn’t have to be expensive. My husband loves to grill and I love to bake/handle the snacks and entertainment department so it’s always a good time.

Weekly Date Nights

This is something I plan to build a habit with over the summer so we can continue moving forward. Our date nights are sporadic at best, but I’d love to do something more regularly to connect and build memories.

It doesn’t have to be big and sometimes we don’t even need to leave the house, but I feel that intention and dedication are what matters best. 

Help My Son Get His Driver’s Permit

It’s that time. My son is getting old enough to learn how to drive…and I’m not okay. I’m trying to stay calm, but on the inside I’m a mix of nervous, proud, and wondering how we got here so fast.

As scary as it feels, I know this is a big, important step, and I want to be present for it. I’m planning to help him study, point out things while we’re on the road, and answer all the questions (even the ones I have to Google first).

I know these moments will fly by, so I’m going to do my best to enjoy the ride. No pun intended!

Spend More Time Outside in General/Keep My Garden Alive

I’m really craving more outdoor time this summer — whether it’s a slow morning coffee on the porch, an evening walk, or just reading in the backyard while the sun goes down. Being outside helps me reset and feel grounded, and I want to lean into that more this season.

Another goal? Keeping my garden alive. 😅 Last year was a bit of a struggle. I started with good intentions, but between the heat and busy days, things got neglected pretty quickly. This summer, I want to be more consistent — watering regularly, checking in on my plants, and actually enjoying the space I’m creating.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. I just want to grow something and give myself the space to enjoy small wins.

Final Thoughts

This summer, I’m giving myself permission to slow down, be present, and explore my own interests a little more. It doesn’t take a big budget to create lasting memories. You just intention and a little planning.

If you’re looking to create your own frugal summer bucket list, I highly recommend it! Start with a few things that bring you joy, challenge you, or give you peace. Then find ways to do them without overspending.

Let’s make this summer one to remember, without looming debt and overspending.