Staycations: get in on the frugal fun
- by Debra McDuffee on Jul 22nd 2008 10:00AM
- kids, money, recreation, seasonal
Everything is expensive nowadays, and let's face it -- a summer vacation just may not be in your budget this year. You don't have to sacrifice family fun just because you can't get away, though; instead, follow my tips for a frugal staycation filled with old favorites and new adventures!
Come on in -- the water's fine!
No staycation would be complete without a day at the beach or pool, and you've got lots of cheap options.
- Got a friend with a pool? Bum a visit, and bring burgers and hot dogs for everyone. You've done your share -- and gotten a free day of swimming.
- Find a state park (here's a list of all U.S. state parks) with a lake and beach. They are usually only about US $5 per car; they often have BBQ pits so you can cook your own meals, and you could even rent a canoe.
- If you live in the mountains, you can probably pull over to the side of the road and frolic in the rocky river for the day, like we do when we visit New Hampshire. That's free, folks!
- Living near the ocean is quite a perk, and can cost anywhere from free to about US $20 per car. If you are coastal, you've got to take advantage!






The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Onward Manufacturing Co., has issued a voluntary recall of about 4,800 Broil King gas grills. A fire and burn hazard is posed to consumers if the bottom of the cook box containing the burners melts or cracks as the direct result of a grease fire. No incidents or injuries have been reported.
Winter is drawing to a close and the weather is showing signs of warming. One thing that means is that more time can be spent outdoors in the backyard with friends and family. Fire up the barbecue pit!
I never would have guessed that you can build a barbecue smoker out of a garbage can and hot plate. You can smoke a whole 








