Because fun doesn’t have to cost a fortune
Life gets expensive—and when money is tight, it’s easy to feel like fun is off the table. But here at The Thrifty Nest, I’ve learned that joy, creativity, and connection don’t require a big budget. Whether you’re flying solo or looking for family fun, there are tons of fulfilling (and often free) activities to enjoy.
Below are budget-friendly ideas for adults and families alike—plus a few handy products (via underlined links) that can make these experiences even better without breaking the bank.
🧍♀️For Adults: Low-Cost Ways to Recharge and Have Fun
1. Host a Game Night
Invite a few friends over and dust off those old board games or play card games. No fancy setup needed—just snacks and laughs.
Our Pick: Budget-Friendly Board Game Set – Enhance your game nights with this versatile board game set, perfect for adults seeking affordable entertainment.
2. Try a New Recipe
Dig into your pantry and experiment with what you already have. Challenge yourself to make a “pantry meal.”
Our Picks: Spice Sampler Set – Explore new culinary horizons with this spice sampler, ideal for experimenting with pantry meals.
3. Start a Free Online Course
Sites like Coursera and edX offer free versions of college-level classes. Grow your skills or start a new hobby.
4. Go for a Photo Walk
Head to your nearest park or downtown area and take artsy photos on your phone.
Our Pick: Phone Tripod with Remote – Capture stunning photos during your photo walks with this adjustable phone tripod.
5. Host a Clothing Swap
Invite friends to bring gently used clothes and swap for “new-to-you” outfits—it’s fun and sustainable.
6. Start a Journal or Gratitude Log
Reflecting on what you do have is more powerful than you think.
Our Pick: Guided Journal – Reflect and grow with this guided journal, designed to inspire daily gratitude.
7. DIY Spa Night
Use kitchen ingredients like sugar and coconut oil for scrubs. Light a candle and relax.
Our Pick: At-Home Spa Kit – Indulge in relaxation with this spa kit, bringing the luxury of a spa to your home.
8. Explore Local Events
Check your city’s website for free concerts, outdoor movies, or community classes.
9. Declutter for a “Home Reset”
Clear a drawer, organize your closet, and feel instantly lighter.
Our Pick: Budget Drawer Organizer – Declutter your space efficiently with these affordable drawer organizers.
10. Volunteer Your Time
Local shelters, pantries, or libraries often need help—plus, it’s a great way to meet new people.
👨👩👧👦 For Families: Affordable Fun With Kids
1. Backyard Campout
Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows (or microwave s’mores), and tell stories by flashlight.
Our Pick: Affordable Pop-Up Tent – Transform your backyard into a camping adventure with this easy-to-set-up pop-up tent.
2. DIY Obstacle Course
Use household items to set up a fun physical challenge in your yard or living room.
3. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Make a list of things to find (like a pinecone or heart-shaped rock) and go on a nature walk.
Our Pick: Printable Scavenger Hunt Kit – Keep kids engaged with this fun and educational scavenger hunt kit.
4. Library Adventure
Local libraries offer storytimes, crafts, and free events—plus, FREE books and movies!
5. Create an “At-Home Theater”
Let kids put on a play or puppet show with costumes made from old clothes or towels.
Our Pick: Kids Dress-Up Trunk – Spark imagination with this dress-up trunk, filled with costumes for endless play.
6. Bake Together
Even simple cookies or pancakes become magical when kids help out.
Our Pick: Kid-Safe Baking Tools – Introduce children to baking with these safe and easy-to-use tools.
7. Free Museum or Zoo Days
Many museums offer free admission days—check local listings or community calendars.
8. Water Play Day
Sprinklers, water balloons, and even a bucket of soapy water can become hours of fun.
Our Pick: Reusable Water Balloons – Enjoy outdoor fun with these eco-friendly water balloons, perfect for summer days.
9. Art Time With Recyclables
Make robots, rockets, or castles out of cardboard boxes, paper tubes, and old magazines.
10. Have a Dance Party
Turn on music, turn down the lights, and let everyone pick a song!
Our Pick: Bluetooth Disco Light Speaker – Turn any space into a dance party with this vibrant disco light speaker.
11. Visit a Local Farmer’s Market
Some markets have petting zoos, free samples, and entertainment—even if you don’t buy much.
12. Build a Blanket Fort
The ultimate rainy-day win. Add fairy lights or glow sticks for extra magic.
Our Pick: Fairy Light Set – Add a magical touch to any room or fort with these enchanting fairy lights.
13. Free Online Drawing or Craft Tutorials
YouTube is packed with kid-friendly craft lessons that use everyday materials.
💡 Final Thoughts
Being short on cash doesn’t mean sacrificing joy, memories, or personal growth. These activities are about experiences—laughing, connecting, getting creative, and making the most of what we already have.
If you’re ready to try something fun and budget-friendly, pick an idea from above and go for it! And if you want to add a little flair to the experience, check out my curated finds (linked throughout)—each one is under $30 and makes thrifty living even more fun.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Featured Image by Dave Gerber from Pixabay