Easy Ways to Spend Less on Fun Stuff
Everyone loves to unwind with friends, checking out a cool flick, enjoying happy hours, exploring new eateries, or binging on our favorite TV shows like “Game of Thrones” or “Orange is the New Black”. But as fun as these activities can be, they often take a big bite out of our wallets. So, how can we enjoy our free time without breaking the bank?
If you are feeling the financial squeeze after holiday spending, it’s a good time to think about how to have fun on a shoestring budget in 2024. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while still making the most out of your leisure time.
1. Enjoy Free Activities:
Free doesn’t mean boring. Our hometowns often have plenty of free events we can benefit from. Keep an eye on local newspapers, blog posts, or community bulletins for free-entry museums, libraries, or art galleries. You may find art exhibits or interesting workshops to attend.
Also, don’t miss free events organized for public holidays or festivals that usually feature live music performances, comedy shows, or cooking demos.
Don’t forget weekend Farmers’ Markets, which are a great place to sample regional produce and handmade goods. Plus, they’re generally free to visit.
2. Cut Back on Subscriptions:
Reconsider how much you’re spending on subscriptions. Due to modern technology, you don’t always need to shell out big bucks for movie tickets or cable TV to enjoy your favorite films or series. Streaming services usually offer a wide variety of shows and movies at lower rates than traditional platforms.
Think about transferring your magazine subscriptions to their digital versions, which can significantly reduce the cost thanks to the absence of printing and mailing fees. Services like Zinio often provide these digital magazines at affordable prices. Libraries may have the latest issues of your favorite magazines too, and they’re certainly worth a visit!
3. Slash Dining Costs:
Spending on dining and drinking can easily add up. If catching up with friends over food and drinks is your thing, how about mixing things up a bit? A picnic lunch or potluck dinners at home – instead of restaurant outings, can be equally fun and will save you a ton.
If you still want to eat out, breakfast dates are often cheaper than dinners, while happy hours and meal promotions can also cut your restaurant bills.
So, as you can see, by being a bit creative and making a few tweaks here and there, you can enjoy all of the fun without all of the expense.