Cheap Things to Buy Before the Summer Holidays (That You’ll Actually Use)

I’ve started thinking about the summer holidays, and instead of planning loads of big days out, I’ve realised it’s the small, easy things at home that make the biggest difference.

So this isn’t a “perfect mum” list.

It’s just things that are cheap, easy, and actually get used in a normal, slightly chaotic house.

Garden chalk  

Turns the driveway or patio into something new every time, whether that’s drawings, hopscotch, random games, or just scribbles everywhere that you pretend you’ll wash off later.

Bubbles  

Simple, cheap, and somehow always more exciting than they should be, even after the hundredth time.

Paddling pool or water toys  

Even just buckets and cups can keep them busy for ages, especially when the weather is even slightly warm.

A cheap ball  

Football, catch, random kicking about… it always ends up being used more than you expect.

Colouring books and pens  

Good for those quieter moments when you need everyone to just sit down for a bit, especially on rainy days.

Activity books or sticker books  

Low effort, minimal mess (usually), and something they can do without needing constant help.

Snacks they can reach themselves  

Probably one of the most useful things, because it cuts down the “can I have…” questions every five minutes.

Basic baking bits  

Cake mix, icing, sprinkles… easy to grab when you need to fill time, even if it ends in chaos.

Bikes and scooters ready to go  

Tyres pumped, everything working, so you don’t suggest going out and then immediately regret it.

A picnic blanket  

Makes it easier to just get out, even if it’s only the garden or a quick trip to the park.

Water balloons or cheap outdoor games  

Good for breaking up the day when boredom starts creeping in.

A “random box” of bits  

Things like old toys, craft supplies, or anything you can pull out and make feel new again.

None of this is expensive.

None of it is particularly impressive.

But it’s the kind of stuff that actually gets used, over and over again, and makes the summer holidays feel a bit easier to manage.

And honestly, easier is exactly what I’m aiming for.