5 things to do this summer on a budget – you might need an ID card

Ray Bans at the ready, summer wardrobe on standby and the glorious whiff of sun cream in the air…

The sun is shining but sadly the student bank balance is not looking so bright. So where can you can go and what can you do to enjoy the summer with your friends on a budget? Here’s 5 ideas to ensure you have a wild summer without having to scratch around in the dregs of your spare change too often – but be prepared, you might need an ID card to prove your age for some of the activities below.

1. Camping in your back garden
   Create your own mini festival! Dust off the old tent, put some bunting up, make some low-cost street food (think pittas, hummus, falafels, burritos) and invite your friends over for the night. If you fancy a few drinks, grab yourself a deal at one of the supermarkets. My ID Card is a PASS ID card that’s accepted in supermarkets if you need to prove your age when buying alcohol.
2. Hit the seaside
   Jump into your bikini or swimmers and hit the road to the beach! The UK has an abundance of beautiful coastline to explore, so go and check out some of the sunbathing talent and dip your toes in the water. Save cash by packing a picnic and don’t forget your sun cream.
3. Picnic in the park
   Get your mates together and head to your local park or recreation ground. Pack some sarnies, snacks, a picnic blanket and maybe some cheeky cans to drink. Enjoy an afternoon of chilling, chatting and perhaps even a game of rounders, frisbee or the ‘Who Am I?’ name game (if you prefer to stay horizontal). If you’re picking up booze on the way, don’t forget your ID card to prove your age in the supermarket or off licence.
4. Sprinklers and hose pipes
   Water play is just as fun for big kids as it is for little ones! If it’s a roasting hot day, then what better way to cool down than running through your sprinkler in the garden or spraying your friends with a hose pipe. You could even pick up some cheap water pistols from your nearest pound shop to make it even more hilarious. If you don’t have a hose pipe then why not just use buckets and containers for a good old water fight?
5. Outdoor cinema
   Do you have a projector? If not, you could just use your tablet or laptop to watch a film in your garden on a summer evening. Get lots of cushions, blankets, snacks and drinks and cosy up under the stars to enjoy your favourite film. Of course if it rains you can always hit the cinema on a 2 for 1 night to save pennies! Don’t forget your ID card though – you might need to prove your age at the cinema if you’re hoping to see an 18+ film.

With all these great ideas, how can you not have a brilliant summer?! Even if your moneybox is looking a bit empty.

If you need to prove your age for anything you’re doing this summer such as going to festivals, in pubs, bars, clubs and shops then My ID Card is an official PASS card that you can present as proof age. It’s only £15 and is quick and easy to apply for here.