AIBU to think family days out have become unaffordable?

[ThisAmpleCritic]

Half term. Trying to find things to do to keep the kids occupied. Why is everything SO expensive?! We’ve exhausted the local free activities including various walks, playgrounds, splash parks, travelled to the nearest beach. We want to do something a bit more special and have looked at more “day out” type activities, including children’s theme park, zoo, steam train, castle, national trust etc but it’s just unaffordable. It frustrates me how as a family we’re considered good earners but we just don’t have enough left over to justify £100+ for one day out, not including travel and food and the inevitable ice cream and gift shop visit.

Is anyone else struggling with the cost of family days out or AIBU?

Someone mentioned parents working full time, feeling guilty and then deciding they need to treat their children and I think there’s a lot of truth in that. I don’t just think it’s guilt I think it’s making their lives easier. When I get home, all my children (tweens) want is time on the sofa me listening to them about their day. It’s easier to go to an activity, sit scrolling on my phone and occasionally pay out for a few expensive snacks/drinks than it is to take them out on their roller skates or scooters, baking or drawing together.

YANBU but agree with suggestions of memberships and depends where you live. There are loads of free things to do with kids in London which still count as a 'day out' in terms of not somewhere you go all the time if that's what you mean

Yes. I did back in the 70/80's. We had to save. But if you go on benefits, you can go for a couple of pounds now. 🤷‍♀️

You can still have an amazing day out and if you take a nice home made packed lunch and drinks and avoid the gift shop it will be half the price.