Raised in a middle-class family where finances were sometimes strained, I wasn’t accustomed to having a large amount of money for entertainment. Any additional money I had was gained from babysitting, yard work, or part-time jobs. Due to my responsibility to save money for higher education, needless spending wasn’t an option when I was with my friends.
Now, as a married mother of two, expecting another child, and handling responsibilities as a homeowner, the financial skills acquired during my younger years are of great help. Though I have a strong penchant for thriftiness, I never want it to overshadow my relationships. It’s possible to spend quality time with friends without spending substantial amounts of money. Learning to have fun within a budget is a valuable lesson I acquired growing up, and that remains significant today.
Below are ten of my preferred economically-friendly activities to enjoy with friends.
1. HIKING: State and national park trails are excellent ways to bond without excessive spending. The small fee paid for parking or park entry pales in comparison to the memorable experience of hiking. The combination of fresh air, exercise, camaraderie, and nature makes for an unforgettable day with friends.
2. BEACH PICNIC: Picnic lunches at the beach are a favorite, suitable all year round except for rainy or snowy days. Sharing a packed meal while enjoying the soothing sound of crashing waves is a wonderful catch-up activity with friends.
3. BONFIRE NIGHT: A bonfire offers various ways to enjoy a night with friends. From cooking or making s’mores over the flames to sharing wine or swapping stories, it is a simple yet fun-filled gathering.
4. MATINEE SHOWS: Though movie outings can be expensive, matinee shows offer an affordable alternative to enjoy a movie with friends once in a while.
5. DISCOUNT BOWLING: Bowling is fun, but costs can quickly accumulate. Thankfully, most bowling alleys have discount days that allow for an enjoyable time at a fraction of the usual cost.
6. CULTURAL POTLUCK: Celebrating the diverse backgrounds of my friends was one of my high-school activities that I still cherish. A cultural potluck highlights the heritage of each friend and doesn’t cost much.
7. CRAFT PARTY: Getting together with friends to execute DIY projects is both fun and economically-friendly if everyone contributes a part of the project material.
8. CARD TOURNAMENT: Card game tournaments bring out the competitive spirit. They offer a high-energy, cost-effective form of entertainment.
9. BOARD GAMES: Board games shouldn’t be left out when listing economical ways to spend time with friends. Some of the most exciting are Telestrations, Never Have I Ever, and Cards Against Humanity.
10. WINE TASTING PARTY: Hosting a wine-tasting party where each guest brings along their favorite bottle of wine makes for a fun, adult-friendly, inexpensive gathering.
Remember that spending time with friends need not be costly. The essence of friendship lies in quality interactions, so the next time a costly outing is suggested, perhaps consider these economical options instead.
What are your preferred ways to enjoy time with friends without breaking the bank?
