Weekends are some of the most blissful parts of life. A little break from the 9-5 humdrum of office culture and the opportunity to gather with friends and share uninterrupted time together.However, at the same time, Saturday and Sunday are often the two days where people’s wallets suffer the biggest dents. From dinners out in restaurants to shopping at the mall, this free time can result in accidental overspending.Thankfully there are more than a few ways to have a fun-filled weekend while adhering to your savings plan at the same time. Here are some creative ideas that will make your break enjoyable without spending frivolously.
Organize a Picnic in the Park
After being cooped up indoors at work all week, why not gather a group of friends and venture out to your local park for a picnic in the fresh air? Depending on the group’s wishes, this can either cost nothing or require only a quick grocery shop.Even if you end up including food, divide and conquer in the store, assigning certain snacks to specific people so that when you get to the register you’re only required to pay for your part.Bring along some board games or balls and enjoy the sunshine while feeling completely guilt-free, knowing you have spent close to nothing for a great afternoon with great company.
Parks are great, no-spend settings as they are generally 100% free to enter
Host a Games Night at Home
Speaking of games, another fabulous, low-budget weekend evening can be had by hosting a thrilling games night at your home or the home of one of your friends. After all, who doesn’t love an opportunity for some friendly competition and tasty finger food?As far as supplies go, keep it cheap by looking around your house for playing cards or loose board games. Chances are you may have something laying around somewhere and, if you don’t, a standard deck of cards will cost you less than $2.The great thing is that dozens of exciting games that appeal to adults can be played with just 52 cards, such as rummy and poker. Additionally, they each have a wide selection of variants that can be explored so your guests will never get bored. In rummy, there’s 13 card or 21 card versions to name just a couple, and in poker there’s Vanunu and Holdemaha, which is a great option because it’s comparatively simple yet entertaining all the same.If you don’t already own real poker chips, they can be easily substituted for a variety of household items like paper clips or random board game pieces.The bottom line is that you can organize a great games night with very little preparation and without breaking the bank. If you don’t already have some cards, buy a deck for cheap along with a few snacks and your friends are guaranteed to have a blast. Why not enjoy a drink whilst you play too? Like a rum eggnog?
Go on a Group Hike
Another outdoor activity, hiking is normally free and is a great opportunity to exercise while socializing. Invite some friends for a group excursion to a scenic place you’ve been wanting to explore and bring along a sack lunch, so you won’t have to spend extra money on food.Maybe your budget doesn’t allow you to travel long distances for just a weekend, but hiking is also a great micro adventure for your wanderlusting side.
Have a “Swapping” Party
‘What exactly is a swapping party?', you may ask. Well, the name really tells you all you need to know. Invite your friends over along with all the stuff they don’t need or use, and exchange it with each other over some food and drinks.After all, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure – and also a gift to your wallet!
How many of these budget-friendly ideas will you take advantage of?
Check out Your City’s Event Calendar
After you’ve exhausted all of these plans, check out your city or town’s local event calendar to see if there are any free-to-attend happenings close to home.The weekend doesn’t have to be a time to stress about spending when you find practical ways to save like these.