June, 2022

How To Live for the Weekend Without Breaking the Bank

Living it up without breaking the bank

You’ve worked hard all week so, when Friday rolls around, you just want to kick back and enjoy yourself with good food, drinks, and fun with friends.

Often, weekend activities and social plans revolve around spending money, which can quickly undo all the effort you’ve put into sticking to your budget during the week.

If you think saving money means sitting around at home all weekend, think again. Avoid blowing your budget during the weekend by trying out some of these cheap or free ideas.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Head to your neighborhood park for a fun afternoon. Assign each friend a dish to bring and have a leisurely picnic lunch. Want to get your blood pumping? Hike a local trail, play a game of pickleball, or ride your bike for a few hours. If you live near a lake or ocean, head to the beach for a swim, a game of volleyball or just a lounge in the sun.⁵

You don’t need to travel far to soak up the sun. Just head out to your own backyard and work on your garden, take a stroll around the block or visit your neighborhood farmer’s market.

Go Camping

Whether you head out to a state park or simply pitch a tent in your backyard, camping is the perfect way to enjoy nature and spend time with loved ones for a lot less money.⁶ For those who prefer to sleep in their own bed, get a taste of the great outdoors by hosting a bonfire in your backyard.⁵ Don’t forget the marshmallows!

Save on Meals

Restaurants aren’t the only way to indulge in delicious food with friends. Invite people over to cook a meal, bake together or host a cocktail party where everyone contributes fun recipes. Collaborating will lead to more creativity in the kitchen and is an excellent bonding opportunity.

If you don’t want a crowd in your kitchen, host a themed potluck instead.² For example, everyone brings appetizers or Mexican-inspired dishes.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to stop eating out completely in order to save money. When you do make plans to eat at restaurants, think about taking advantage of happy hour deals, restaurant weeks or Groupons.¹

Rearrange and Redecorate

Rearranging the furniture and artwork in your home is a productive and low-cost way to refresh your surroundings.⁴ Plus, having people over for happy hours, game nights or dinner parties is a great way to socialize on a budget, and you’ll be more likely to host friends and family in a space you’re proud of.

If you really want to give your living space a makeover, painting an accent wall or hanging some new artwork can make a big difference. Check out a thrift store or flea market for one-of-a-kind art and décor at a bargain. You might just find a hidden gem!

Check Out Community Events

Museums, zoos, and botanical gardens often hold free admission days or events, such as movies or outdoor concerts.¹ Check their websites to find a schedule of free events. Yoga and art studios will also often offer free one-off classes.

During the warmer months, wander around a cultural festival or art fair to window shop, see live performances or try a new cuisine.

Volunteer

Animal shelters, organizations for children or the elderly, and food banks are always looking for volunteer groups to dedicate their time to a good cause.²

Grab some friends and spend an afternoon playing with kittens, reading to kids, or cleaning up your community. It costs nothing, and you’ll feel like you made a difference in someone’s life.

Other ways you can give back include: gathering up old books or clothes to donate, giving blood or delivering meals.³

Get Started with Your Payday Loan

Working on your money management skills takes practice. Emergencies happen, unexpected expenses come up, and you need to be able to get a cash advance from a trusted lender on short notice.

That’s where LendNation can help. We offer payday loans, installment loans, and title loans along with other financial solutions to make sure you can get the cash you need today. Let us assist you in reaching your financial goals.

Find a LendNation store near you or fill out an application online now. And you can always check out our blog for more money management tips.

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