Summer Bucket List for Military Families
Summer is officially here, and for military families, that means the busy season is in full swing. For our community, this time of year often means PCS moves, summer camps, family adventures, deployments, or the joy of a long-awaited homecoming.
No matter what your summer looks like, it can still be a season full of joy, connection, and memories. Whether you’re road-tripping cross-country or just marking off the days on the calendar until your service member returns home, this military family summer bucket list will help you keep time moving and make it meaningful.
At-Home Adventures
For families spending the summer soaking up the sun and staying local—especially if you’re living on or near an installation—there are endless ways to have fun, get creative, and make memories.
- Make a Summer Time Capsule: Have each family member contribute something meaningful, such as a drawing, note, toy, or memento, and store it away to revisit next summer.
- Get Out and Explore: Visit nearby museums, splash pads, parks, and bowling alleys. Many offer free or discounted days for military families.
- Craft Time: Fun doesn’t have to be costly, from sidewalk chalk to DIY tie-dye shirts.
- Military Discounts: Military families have access to a multitude of discounts with their military ID card. Your family has earned them, so make sure to use them fully.
PCS Fun Made Possible
Whether you’re doing a CONUS or OCONUS move, summer PCS comes with plenty of challenges and opportunities for adventure.
- Start a Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of things to spot during your travels: state flags, humorous exit sign names, and animals grazing.
- Create a “PCS Bucket List” for New Location: Research fun parks, restaurants, and unique attractions at your gaining installation to build excitement.
- Celebrate a PCS milestone: Whether packing up the last box or completing your first week at the new duty station, mark the moment with ice cream, a movie night, or a family walk around your new neighborhood.
Military Family Traditions & NMFA
Summer is a great time to build or continue traditions unique to your military journey. One tradition that families can count on, no matter where they are?
- Operation Purple® Summer Challenge: It can be done anywhere—at home or during a PCS road trip. It’s free, flexible, and packed with activities that help families recharge and reconnect. This summer, let this be the tradition your family returns to year after year.
- Document the Journey: Wherever the summer takes you, take a moment to document it. Snap a photo, journal a quick note, or let your kids draw their favorite part of the day.
Wherever duty calls this summer, let your bucket list be a reminder that connection, adventure, and joy can be found at every stop.
Share your summer story with us below!
By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager