Even if money’s tight, there’s usually one resource you can count on in the palm of your hand: the ubiquitous smartphone - a compass, a coupon booklet, a travel guide, and of course, a tiny Internet machine (not to mention a telephone).

So if you’re searching for some fun, free activities for your family to round out the rest of the summer, look to your cellular device for a little assistance. The apps listed below can help you save at local businesses and restaurants, and find some exciting new Little Rock destinations, too. Who says modern technology is ruining everything?

The Coupon App

Just as its name suggests, The Coupon App helps you find and manage the thousands of money-saving coupons that are out there. Its database of deals is updated every day, and you can bring it to the store with you so that you can identify offers pertaining to the merchandise that's in front of you. Voice search lets you find coupons even if your hands are occupied, and you can scan your coupons at the cash register without having to print anything out.

Arkansas Razorbacks Gameday

Football tickets for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks can set you back a pretty penny, but you can listen to the game for free with the team's official app. As you take in the streaming audio, you can bring up stats related to the players on the field so that you can really understand what's going on. Interact with other fans via social media, and it will almost feel like you're actually at Razorback Stadium.

GasBuddy

The cost of gasoline can really add up particularly if you intend to make a few road trips this summer. GasBuddy will show you the cheapest gas stations around Little Rock, and you can get directions to them with a single click. The price list is broken down by various grades of gas along with diesel, so you'll find accurate info regarding the type of gas you actually use in your vehicle. 

Ebates

When you start your online shopping sessions from the website of Ebates, you'll get to save when you buy from thousands of retailers. There are no forms to fill out, promo codes to enter in or points to accumulate. Every purchase you make at partner companies qualifies you for cash back. Use a credit card with a rewards program while shopping to increase your savings even more.

Forks

Forks shows you dining deals in your vicinity, and it even aggregates offers from several sources, including Groupon, so that you don't have to waste your time looking in multiple places. It lists more than 50,000 restaurants, and additional culinary hotspots are added every day. This app can open up new horizons for you if you wish to sample new types of cuisine without paying full price. 

Taking a trip around Little Rock doesn’t have to set you back - consider downloading an app or two and watch the savings. Every little bit adds up, and it’s worth it to help you stay within your budget and spend summer fun with your family.

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Beth Kotz is a contributing writer to Credit.com. She specializes in covering financial advice for female entrepreneurs, college students and recent graduates.  She earned a BA in Communications and Media from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois, where she continues to live and work.