8 Budget-Friendly Hobbies to Pick Up This Year
If we’re being real, life has gotten more expensive. Between the long list of subscription services and the rising cost of living, it’s easy to assume that even the little hobbies now require a fat wallet.
I used to think the same. A few years back, I nearly talked myself out of trying gardening because I pictured pricey tools, fancy soil bags, and a backyard I didn’t have. Turns out, all I really needed was a $2 packet of basil seeds, an old takeout container, and some sunlight.
From my experience, hobbies don’t always have to be about splurging. They’re about curiosity, creativity, and finding things you really enjoy doing. Whether you need a creative outlet or a reason to unplug, I’ve got your back. Here, we’ll look at hobbies that are light on your budget but rich in rewards. Read on, and you just might find a new favorite way to unwind without breaking the bank.
Reading
The great thing about reading is that you can solve mysteries, travel the world, and live a thousand lives without leaving the comfort of your couch. Whether you prefer to borrow or own books, there’s something for everyone.
There’s an endless supply of free books at your local library, and you can also download apps like Libby for digital books. On the other hand, if you prefer owning books, you can find exciting deals at thrift stores and used bookshops. Hobbies are best enjoyed with others, and you could join a local book club to make friends and exchange views on your latest reads.
Journaling or Creative Writing
No list of budget-friendly hobbies is complete without journaling and creative writing. People who prefer classic writing only need a notebook and pen. If, like me, you’re more of a digital writer, Google Docs or any notes app will do just fine.
Whether you’re documenting your day, writing the next great novel, or just doodling your feelings, journaling is incredibly therapeutic. Try writing at least three pages every morning, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much you can come up with in a short time.
Hiking or Nature Walks
Mother Nature doesn’t charge admission, which is great news for anyone looking to pick up budget-friendly hobbies. You don’t need fancy gear; comfortable shoes and a water bottle are enough to get you started.
Hiking is not only easy on the pocket, but it is also therapeutic. Besides being a great exercise, you also get loads of Instagramable photos. If you’re new to hiking, start with local parks and trails before exploring more difficult terrains.
Learning a New Language
From French to Arabic and everything in between, you can never run out of new languages to learn. One way to go about this is by using apps like Duolingo, which offers fun and gamified ways of learning.
You can also watch foreign movies with subtitles, listen to music in a new language, or even find a language exchange partner online. If you want to throw in some more fun, switch your phone’s language settings to the new language. In all, you might not even need to spend a dime, and even if you do, it’ll only make you better at a new language.
Photography
With just your smartphone, you can learn how to capture the most eye-catching shots. Thankfully, photography is one of those hobbies, with a lot of free learning resources online.
Start by learning basic composition rules, playing around with natural light, and trying out new ideas from different angles. You can also access free editing tools from apps like Snapseed and VSCO. To spice things up, join instagram photography challenges. This way, you can stay motivated and learn from others.
DIY Crafts or Upcycling
We’ve all done some kind of upcycling or DIY at some point. Turning it into a hobby can bring more fulfilment and potentially save you money. The trick is to start small, with things around you, like an old jar or T-shirt.
You might be wondering how to get DIY ideas. That’s where Pinterest comes in. It offers loads of ideas that you can follow or tweak to your taste. Check out Dollar Tree for basic supplies, and keep an eye on Facebook Marketplace for stuff to refurbish. I should warn you that repurposing old items can be a bit addicting.
Gardening
There are a few hobbies that give back as much as you put into it, and gardening is at the top of that list. You don’t need a sprawling backyard to get started; a few pots on a windowsill will do just fine. Also, seeds and soil are on the budget-friendly side of things.
Easy-to-grow plants like basil or mint are great for beginners, while succulents are your best bet if you’re worried about keeping plants alive. The reward of watching something grow far outweighs the work you put in. Plus, you’ll save a little on groceries if you grow your herbs or veggies.
Drawing or Sketching
If you’ve ever doodled in the margins of your notebook, you’re already halfway to making drawing or sketching a hobby. All you really need is a pencil and paper to get started, and the rest is up to your imagination.
Don’t worry about being “good” at it—this is about expressing yourself and having fun. You can sketch landscapes, people, or even abstract designs. There are tons of free tutorials online if you want to improve, but honestly, the best part is just letting your creativity flow without any pressure.
