Swim into Summer Savings

Laying out in the sun and relaxing on the sand all day sounds like it would make for an inexpensive trip. But if you’re not careful, that cheap trip can really break the bank. Between gas, beach passes, food, entertainment, suntan lotion, and other beach accessories, it’s easy for a family to spend $150+ before the day is done.

So if you’re on a budget this summer, swing on by to your local YMCA where they offer swimming classes for the entire family and you can dive into the water without going over your budget. It’s never too late or too early to learn how to swim! The Meadowlands Area YMCA is offering classes and a summer swim club at affordable prices for all ages! 

BUT, if you still have your heart set on placing your feet in the sand and listening to the ocean waves break then follow these few tips that will help you keep some money in your pocket while still enjoying a beautiful day on the beach!

Stock up on essentials before you leave

                Stores at the beach or boardwalk know that you’re a captive audience. They charge exorbitant prices for suntan lotion, beach toys, and other accessories because they know you need it immediately. Before you leave for the shore take a trip to the dollar store or Walmart for cheap beach toys and chairs, and pick up suntan lotion at your local pharmacy.

Bring your own food and drinks

                A $5 cooler bag from your local grocery store can pay for itself ten-fold over the course of a summer. Similar to the beach accessories listed above, beach restaurants also charge a premium. Before you hit the road, grab sandwiches along with some chips and dips from a deli and throw them in your cooler to avoid buying $4 pizza slices on the boardwalk. Fill a thermos with your favorite drink, or grab a quart of iced tea from the deli and you’ll be set for the entire day. If you’re dead set on buying your food there, venture a couple of blocks off the beach to find a local favorite spot. Only eating where locals eat is a good rule of thumb, no matter where you are travelling.  

Pay for Parking, Not for Beach Badges

                If you’re going with a group, you can save a big chunk of change by choosing a beach where you pay for parking instead of for beach badges. Paying per car instead of $5-10 per person is a great way to save everyone a little bit of money. Atlantic City, Wildwood, and Sandy Hook are all beautiful shore spots that offer free beach access.

Do your research.

                Look online for special deals or free activities in or around where you plan to go. Many shore spots offer free beach concerts throughout the summer. Blake Shelton and Lady Antebellum are both playing in Atlantic City for free this summer. Other places will offer special deals or discounted rates for their activities. Tuesdays and Fridays, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk sells wristbands that offer unlimited entry to their rides for a block of time. As long as you do some research before you travel, you can get a lot of bang for your buck.

If you did forget something…

                Stop at a grocery store near the beach. They are often fully-stocked with beach supplies, and you’ll save a pretty penny compared to the tourist trap shops just off the beach. The best part: shore dwellers need food too, so you should be able to find one within 10 minutes of your destination.