The gloomy weather in the UK has always been the main topic of conversation for us Brits. But now it seems like the rising cost of living is taking over. Look at us, it has become our main conversation starter, and understandably so. It’s rare to meet someone who isn’t affected or at the least concerned about soaring inflation. Add that to the costs incurred during Christmas, and no wonder everyone has tried to have a dry January. But, at the same time, trying to cut down costs doesn’t have to mean we keep ourselves deprived of the small joys of life, right?

The small things, like a trip to the seaside, are what make us feel alive and create memories we cherish for a long time. The skyrocketing costs of living, however, have hindered travel plans for many. To show that fun trips can still be taken on a limited budget, Co Wheels has challenged two residents in Canterbury to take a day trip on a budget of £50.

Kirsty’s charming trip to Margate

One local resident, Kirsty Lavender, had the difficult challenge of taking her two children to the seaside, with travel, a couple of planned activities and lunch all having to come in at under £50.

“I chose Margate as there’s a lot of different things to do and it’s really great fun if you’ve got kids,” said Kirsty.

“First of all, we picked up a Co Wheels pay-as-you-go car from Castle Row Car Park which costs just £5.95 per hour.”

“Then we headed East to Margate. We spent our morning underground, visiting the mysterious Shell Grotto, and then we headed to The Margate Caves. The children loved exploring both of them.”

“Time for lunch, the kids love Pizza, so we chose Ralphs. Then it was time to burn off some energy with a run around on the beach. Finally, we let the kids spend some pennies in the arcades.”

Cost of the trip

Shell Grotto and Margate Caves Admission - £13

Dinner at Ralphs - £30

Co Wheels pay-as-you-go car - £5.95 (per hour)

Arcades - £1

Total - £49.95

Becca visits beautiful Broadstairs

Becca and her husband chose a day in Broadstairs for sea, sand and ice cream.

“For lunch, we headed to the Pier and visited Jetty for some beautiful fish and chips.”

 “My husband and I then went hunting out some quirky gifts in independent shops like Kit, where we spent £10 on some lovely home decor.”

 “At the end of the day, we still had a couple of pounds left to spend at the arcades which my husband LOVED!”

 “We had such a lovely day in Broadstairs, it was like taking a mini holiday for the day.”

Cost of the trip

Two ice creams at Morelli’s - £11.45

Fish, chips and drinks at Jetty - £16.60

Gifts at Kit - £10

Co Wheels pay-as-you-go cars - £5.95 (per hour)

Parking - £1

Arcades - £2

 Total - £47

With so many beautiful rural and seaside locations in our county, it’s no surprise that Kirsty and Becca both enjoyed a fun day trip for under £50. As we start to move closer to the Spring, there’s plenty of time to plan your day trip for under £50.