20 fun things to do if you're on a budget

Libraries are a never-ending source of intrigue, and they're always free. You can spend the afternoon looking through books, or you can utilize your library's other amenities. Most modern libraries have far more available to patrons than books, making them one of the best low-cost places to spend time.

Everybody knows that seeing a movie in a theater is a considerable expense, but renting a movie at home is a much more budget-friendly way to see new movies. To really cut down on costs, wait at least a few months until after the film’s rental release, or opt for a film that’s been out for years. 

There are thousands of games in existence, and while some of them need to be purchased, plenty of them are free. With a little online digging or surveying of friends and family, you can find a game you've never played that's either inexpensive or free to try. You can always make up your own game.

There are loads of inexpensive hobbies in the world. Crossword puzzles, crocheting, gardening, drawing, and much more can be done for relatively cheap prices. It may take some digging to find a new hobby you’re interested in, and it doesn’t cost too much, but it’ll be well worth the effort to find. 

Thrifting is growing in popularity as it's a sustainable way to shop, meaning thrifting is more accessible than ever before. If you want to shop but don't want to spend too much money, go thrifting. There's the bonus that you’ll likely walk away with an item few other people have. 

Taking a walk can be one of the most routine parts of your life, but it can easily become a more exciting aspect by simply venturing into an unfamiliar area. Make sure it's a safe place to walk, and then frame it as a new adventure. 

Instead of trying a new restaurant with friends, invite them over for a potluck. This allows you to get together with your loved ones without having to shell out a fortune for a small amount of food. Assign everyone a type of dish (appetizer, side dish, dessert, etc.) and see what favorite recipes they bring. 

If you can't resist trying a new restaurant, skip the uber-expensive places and opt for something a little cheaper, like a new fast-food restaurant. You'll still get the excitement of trying a new food without the hefty bill. It's a win-win. 

Lots of museums across the world are free, and if they aren't, they're often inexpensive for a daily pass. If you live in a bigger city, there are bound to be dozens of museums you haven't explored. If you live somewhere smaller, revisit a museum you haven’t been to in a while. 

Okay, taking a bike ride requires that you own a bike, but there are plenty of inexpensive bikes available for purchase, and in some places, bikes can be rented. It's a relatively cheap way to get some exercise, and bike rides can be made as long or as short as you want. 

If you want to get away for the weekend but don't want to spend too much, take a staycation. Be a tourist in your own city by staying at a local hotel, trying a restaurant you haven't been to yet, and finally visiting those shops you've heard so much about. 

Picnics are about as fun and as inexpensive as activities come. Not much is required for a picnic — just an outdoor location and something easily eaten outside. So little as a park and an ice cream cone constitutes a picnic, and it can be had solo or with another person. 

Take a hike if you're looking for something as cheap but more strenuous than a walk. If a hike in the traditional sense isn't accessible to you, opt for a longer walk or one in a hilly area. There are lots of ways to turn a regular walk into a hike, and many of them are budget-friendly. 

Book clubs are great options for budget-friendly social interaction. You can check out a book from your local library instead of buying it, or your group can opt for a non-traditional format, like a book report club where members take turns sharing about a book only they read. 

Local entertainment is often the cheapest way to experience culture. Seek out an open mic night or a local entertainer performing for low-cost tickets. You’ll often be surprised by the level of talent, and your wallet will thank you. 

If you want a more informal style of entertainment, karaoke is your best bet. Drinks can get expensive, but the amount you order is totally up to you. The night can be as expensive or as inexpensive as you want. 

If you're into photography or scavenger hunts, ask your friends to join you in a photograph scavenger hunt. Look online for a list of scavenger hunts, choose one that best suits your group, and set out with your camera to photograph the evidence. 

Campfires can be costly if you don't have wood available, but if you do have wood to burn, they're a great budget-friendly activity. Invite some friends and ask them to contribute snacks and drinks for a fun, inexpensive evening. 

Jigsaw puzzles are a wonderful, time-consuming activity. They can be purchased for cheap or reused. You might also be able to loan a puzzle from your local library, find one at a thrift shop, or swap with a friend. 

There are loads of free online classes on nearly every topic imaginable. And even if they're not free, they're often inexpensive. Pick a topic you're interested in and spend an hour or two learning more about it.