With the temperature creeping up and the sun finally coming out to play, it’s the perfect time to get out and about. University is a delicate balance between studying hard, and enjoying yourself – and everything just feels so much better when the weather is nice, doesn’t it? But we also recognise that as students, a lot of you are on a tight budget; with that in mind, here are some FREE ways to enjoy the sunshine as you head towards the end of the academic year…
Go for a walk
This one is super easy – simply go for a walk! Whether it’s around campus or somewhere further afield, walking really boosts your endorphins and puts you in a good mood. Have a look online for interesting walking routes near you, and pop on your favourite playlist or podcast. It’s as simple as that, but it gives you the chance to really enjoy the sunshine.
Have a picnic
Maybe this one technically isn’t free but if you use food and drinks you’ve already got in your student kitchen, you can make it as cheap as possible! Grab your flatmates and some tasty food, then go and find somewhere nice to sit and eat while putting the world to rights together. There’s just something different about eating food outdoors: it’s one of the best free ways to enjoy the sunshine!
Watch the sunset
Sunsets are so much more beautiful in the summer months when there is less cloud coverage, and it’s just nice when it’s warm enough to stay out and watch it. Pick a nice spot somewhere in town or on campus, and settle down – alone or with your friends – to watch the colours of the sky blend and change as the sun goes down. It’s such a peaceful activity, and it’s completely FREE.
Go wild swimming
Head to a local water spot, like a lake, and dive in – but make sure to do it completely safely. Don’t go alone: if you have a look on Facebook you might find a wild swimming group for your area. This means there will be set times when groups of people take part, so you know you’ll be in the company of others in case anything were to go wrong. Make sure to take a towel and something warm to put on when you get out of the water, as well as a snack!
Read or study outdoors
Reading – where it’s for pleasure or for your studies – is a brilliant pastime, and one which you can enjoy outside in the sunshine. Find a nice sunny spot and sit down for a couple of hours with your book, and get stuck in. Make sure you stay hydrated and take a break from time to time, too.
When you’re out and about in the sunshine, be sure to wear your SPF and take some water with you so you don’t overheat. But other than that, get ready to enjoy the longer days and lighter nights with these free ways to enjoy the sunshine!
