How to keep kids entertained, fed, and happy for less this summer as holiday costs skyrocket

New research reveals the growing cost of summer holidays, with food and entertainment topping parents' money worries.

Father with two sons rowing in canoe along river

Getty/Tara Moore

Published: July 29, 2026 at 4:56 PM

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The six-week summer holidays have always stretched family budgets, but new research suggests this year could be one of the toughest yet for parents trying to keep children entertained, fed and happy without overspending.

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Figures reveal that many families are being forced to rethink everything from holidays abroad to simple days out, as the cost of living continues to bite. For many parents, it's not just the price of a family getaway that's causing concern. Everyday costs like food, activities and childcare are also piling on the pressure.

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Luckily, money-saving experts at Discounts for Teachers have shared their tips and tricks to keeping kids entertained, fed, and happy for less this summer holiday.

Most families are struggling to afford a summer holiday

Research from Park Christmas Savings, based on a survey of 3,077 UK parents carried out earlier this year, found that just 41% of parents say they can afford a summer holiday lasting five days or more, either in the UK or overseas.

Meanwhile, 42% said they could not afford a holiday at all, while a further 17% were unsure whether they would be able to go away, meaning almost six in 10 families are either ruling out a trip or uncertain if they'll manage one.

The findings also highlight the lengths some parents are going to in order to cut costs. Nearly four in 10 (39%) admitted taking their children out of school during term time to access cheaper holiday prices, despite the risk of fines.

Keeping children entertained is becoming a major expense

Even families staying at home face significant costs over the school break.

Park Christmas Savings found that 60% of parents say keeping children entertained is their biggest challenge during the summer holidays, while 30% struggle to balance work with childcare.

Food is also putting household finances under pressure. When asked which expenses have the biggest impact on their summer budget:

Separate research from last year by financial services company Hodge suggests those concerns are well-founded.

Based on average ticket prices for a family of four across 11 popular activities, parents could spend as much as £992 over the summer if they tick off just one of each.

Some of the biggest costs include:

That total doesn't include transport, parking, snacks or meals out, which can quickly increase the final bill.

How parents can save money this summer

Money-saving experts at Discounts for Teachers have shared several practical ways families can reduce costs during the school holidays without missing out on fun.

1. Plan ahead before booking

Booking activities in advance often means cheaper prices and gives families more time to compare deals. It also helps to avoid expensive last-minute decisions and impulse purchases.

2. Check for discounts before you pay

Many attractions offer discounted entry through savings platforms, particularly for people working in education and healthcare.

Current offers highlighted by Discounts for Teachers include discounted Alton Towers tickets, up to 40% off Cineworld and savings of up to 35% on attractions booked through Tiqets.

Gareth Jones, chairman at Discounts for Teachers, said: "The cost-of-living crisis continues to put huge pressure on key workers. By making saving effortless, whether it's cash back on groceries or reduced meals out, platforms like ours play a real role in building financial resilience and reducing stress. It's about long-term empowerment, not just one-off deals."

3. Choose cheaper ways to travel

If you're planning family days out, a Family & Friends Railcard can reduce adult fares by a third and children's tickets by up to 60%. Coach travel can also offer a lower-cost alternative for longer trips.

4. Look for free family activities

Parks, beaches, woodlands and local libraries remain some of the best-value ways to fill the long summer days. Packing a picnic instead of buying food while you're out can also make a noticeable difference.

Rainy days don't have to be expensive either, with craft kits, home movie afternoons or borrowing books from the local library all helping keep children occupied without stretching the budget.

The Summer Reading Challenge offers a weeks-long free activity to keep kids entertained and screen-free.

5. Take advantage of kids eat free offers

Many restaurant chains run "kids eat free" promotions during the school holidays, making family meals out much more affordable. Combining these deals with cashback offers on everyday spending can help families keep more money in their pockets over the six-week break.

MadeForMums has compiled a bumper list of restaurants and cafes where kids can eat for free or for £1 this summer.

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