57 Ideas for a Thrifty and Fun No-Spend Weekend
Weekends don’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. In fact, planning a no-spend weekend can be a refreshing way to unwind and engage in activities that don’t strain your wallet. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a homebody, or someone looking to learn new skills, here are 57 ideas that can fill your weekend with delight and creativity without spending a single penny.
1. Read a Book
Rediscover the joy of getting lost in a good story.
2. Write a Book
Begin penning your own novel or memoir.
3. Write a Letter to Your Parents
Craft a thoughtful note to those you love.
4. Learn a New Foreign Language
Start with basic phrases in a language you’ve always wanted to learn.
5. Watch Courses on YouTube
Educate yourself on anything from science to art.
6. Attend Free Online Courses
Many sites offer free classes that can expand your knowledge.
7. Do Some Voluntary Work
Help out in your community or join a local charity event.
8. Go Jogging
Stay fit and explore your neighborhood on foot.
9. Learn to Backflip
Challenge yourself physically with a new trick.
10. Learn Origami
Create art from paper with some simple folding techniques.
11. Do a DIY Project
Tackle a home improvement project with materials you already have.
12. Swim in a Lake
If weather permits, enjoy a swim in a nearby lake.
13. Go for a Very Long Walk
Find tranquility and fitness on a long scenic walk.
14. Do a Picnic with Friends and/or Family
Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal outdoors.
15. Learn to Code
Basic programming can be self-taught through various free resources online.
16. Write a Diary
Reflect on your thoughts and daily experiences by keeping a diary.
17. Write a Blog
Share your insights or hobbies with the world through blogging.
18. Paint or Draw
Express yourself artistically with materials you have at home.
19. Play Chess
Challenge a friend or family member to a game of chess.
20. Meditate
Find your inner peace through meditation.
21. Train Yoga
Improve your flexibility and mental well-being with yoga.
22. Work in Garden
Spend some time tending to your garden or start a new one.
23. Watch Family Photos
Relive memories by going through your old photos.
24. Prepare Jams
Turn any leftover fruits into delicious homemade jams.
25. Cook Something New
Experiment with ingredients you already have to make a new dish.
26. Fix Stuff at Home
Repair broken items around the house.
27. Play Board Games
Enjoy a board game night with those you live with.
28. Create Your Own Board Games
Design and play your own board games using household items.
29. Visit a Free Museum
Check out local museums that offer free admission days.
30. Walk the Dogs
Take your furry friend for a long walk, or volunteer to walk a neighbor’s pet.
31. Ride a Bike
Go for a bike ride in your area.
32. Play Video Games
Enjoy some gaming alone or with friends online.
33. Take Some Surveys
Participate in online surveys and possibly earn rewards without spending.
34. Go Fishing
Relax by the water and maybe catch your dinner.
35. Make/Update Your Budget
Use your free time to review your finances.
36. Sell/Throw Out the Stuff You Don’t Need
Declutter your home and simplify your surroundings.
37. Fly a Kite
Enjoy a breezy day out flying a kite.
38. Go to a Free Zoo
Some zoos have free entry days; check local listings.
39. Visit a Library
Spend some quiet time at your local library.
40. Rearrange Furniture
Give your home a fresh look by rearranging the furniture.
41. Play Beach Volleyball
If near a beach, enjoy a game of volleyball.
42. Read Blogs
Discover blogs that interest you and learn something new.
43. Go to Church
Attend a service at your local church.
44. Play Karaoke
Have a fun singing session with family or friends.
45. Learn New Dancing Moves
Watch dance videos and master some new moves.
46. Clean your house
Clean Your House**
Deep clean your living space for a fresh environment.
47. Clean Your Car
Give your vehicle a thorough clean, inside and out.
48. Go Camping
If possible, set up a tent in your backyard and enjoy a night under the stars.
49. Learn 30 New Facts About Your Country
Educate yourself with interesting facts about your homeland.
50. Go Kayaking
If you own a kayak and live near water, spend some time paddling.
51. Go Nordic Walking
Grab some poles and go for a Nordic walk in the park.
52. Go Diving
If you have the gear and live near the water, explore underwater.
53. Write a Song
Express your feelings or tell a story through a song.
54. Learn to Play Guitar
Pick up that guitar and start learning some chords.
55. Try Slacklining
Set up a slackline in a park and work on your balance.
56. Iron Clothes
Catch up on ironing your clothes while watching a movie or listening to a podcast.
57. Follow FinAttitudes.com on Pinterest
Explore creative ideas and inspirations on their Pinterest page.
Summary
Embracing a no-spend weekend is an excellent way to focus on the simpler pleasures of life. This list offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests and can be enjoyed alone or with loved ones. By choosing to engage in these cost-free activities, not only do you save money, but you also enrich your weekend experience in meaningful ways.