Just glance at your social media feed on the weekend while you’re trying to save money and you’re sure to see numerous posts from friends doing some (or all!) of the following: enjoying fancy meals out, attending loud and crazy concerts, going to the movies, or hanging at the bars until closing time.
Meanwhile, you’re stuck at home eating cereal and watching another episode on Netflix because you’re trying to do the responsible thing.
Here’s the twist, though: skipping the traditional weekend expectations doesn’t have to be boring or negative. In fact, it can be quite freeing to thwart the tradition of “going out” AND still get the same amount of enjoyment out of your weekend without spending a penny.
When Michael and I are feeling antsy due to the monotony of life at home before a trip, we tend to look outward for other sources of free entertainment. Vastly adding to the value of our weekends without spending a dime is essential, especially when we’re saving up for one of our larger and more expensive trips.
Whether you’re traveling soon or not, why not give your wallet a break and try one or more of these ideas this weekend?
HOW TO SAVE FOR A TRIP WITHOUT FEELING BROKE: WEEKEND EDITION
1. Create a pantry meal
You know those rainy-day foods languishing in the back of your pantry? Or the one lonely sweet potato, carrot, or pepper left over after Tuesday’s dinner? Put them to good use this weekend!
Whether you live alone, with family, a partner, or roommates, you can throw on an apron, play some music, and create a memorable meal composed of things you already have on hand. Look online for inspiration (we love cooking dishes from other cultures and destinations!) or use a recipe maker tool if you get stuck. When in doubt, quiche is always a safe bet!
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2. Check the calendar
Scour your local newspaper’s calendar section and Facebook’s Explore Events feature (no longer available) to find a free event in your area. If you’re like me, you probably rarely use Facebook these days, but it’s an excellent way to see what events are going on around you.
Take a chance and attend a free festival, coffee shop opening, or art walk – you might be surprised to find a new interest or meet new people!
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3. Head to your local library
Sign up for a card if you don’t already have one, and head to your library to learn about what resources they offer. You may be surprised to find that you can do way more than check out books!
My local branches offer free e-book checkouts, music downloads, crafting lessons, e-magazines, and even exercise classes. While you’re there, search the shelves for how-to guides on a skill you’ve always wanted to acquire or check out a film about your destination (here’s a good place to start!).
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4. Check your local university or college’s website
Your higher education institution just may offer free public admission to attractions and activities on campus. Many campuses feature art galleries, offer free music and theater performances, or exhibits through their sciences programs.
I’ve enjoyed free salsa classes, orchestra performances, art gallery exhibit openings, and more – all for free. Next, I plan on attending an astronomy night, where we’ll have the chance to view the sky through the university’s telescopes. How cool is that?
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5. Google your city
The search engine giant now includes photos and descriptions of either “things to do” or “points of interest” when you complete a query for many cities, and of course, your favorite travel bloggers may have written a full guide to your city.
Find a new park, trail, or museum in your area and be a tourist for the day in your own town – or maybe take the chance to visit your town’s main attraction (you know, the one you always send the out-of-towners to but never actually visit!). Make sure you leave a review so others can experience it too!
FINAL THOUGHTS ON FINDING FREE THINGS TO DO WHILE SAVING FOR A TRIP
Sometimes we all just need a reminder that fun things can be free so that saving for a trip doesn’t feel like a chore. Finding activities that make the most of your time at home can also have one other unexpected benefit: making you fall in love with your home city all over again.
So, what are you going to do this weekend?
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