Pre covid life is almost fully here and I know I have mentioned this before but this summer is going to be looking very different compared to last year and that means we are going to want to do all the thing, buy all the things and justify it with “didn’t get to do anything last year”. You might be one of the very fortunate people who didn’t lose your job, have money saving up and think that is a reason why you can justify all of your purchases. Lets be honest, you can tell yourself anything to justify a purchase and yes our economy needs us to make purchases to be thriving but that doesn’t mean you need to overspend, which then leads to possibly setting you back on reaching any financial goals you may have. So if you’re wanting to see your friends and family but want to find a few free or low buy options while still enjoying their company, here are my recommendations.
- Picnic– A picnic is always a great idea in my book, weather permitting of course. It is an easy way be in the outdoors, with great company and with the food and drinks of your choice. This was one of the ways I was able to see friends last summer and overall a win, win in my book because who can turn down meeting up for a picnic?
- Have a Teachable Moment– I am a firm believer that you can always learn something from someone and if you and the person you want to hang out with might want to learn something together use this as an opportunity to do so. Maybe you can teach a friend to make one of your favorite cocktails and you both split the cost of the supplies or sign up for a free online course and take it together side by side.
- Backyard Hangout– These have always been some of my favorite moments with friends and a very affordable way to make memories. You can have anything from a backyard bbq where everyone brings a dish to a post-dinner hang out where everyone brings a drink of choice to sip on.
- Go on a Walk or Meet at a Park– Both free options that anyone can do no matter where you may live and all you need is good company to make it fun.
- Potluck– This is one that I’m looking forward to the most now that gatherings in homes are starting back up again. I really enjoy cooking and being able to share it with others and to try other’s dishes, especially when we have a theme night or a challenge. One that is on my list is to have an “Aldi Night” in which everyone bringing a dish has to use mainly Aldi products which is a fun little challenge but also one that everyone can afford to participate in without breaking the bank.
- Museums– Not only do they have a/c and you can always cool down in them but most of the time museums always have a free day to the public. You can find the free days (or if you’re lucky like here in St. Louis, they’re free everyday), see some art and get to spend some time with a friend or family member.
- Hit up the free stuff– Every state, city and town always has something free to offer. Whether that is a neighborhood concert, free museum days, free samples at breweries or classes at the library- do a quick search and find all the free or close to free things your city or where you’re visiting has to offer.
I really hope this can help you serve up as options the next time you’re wanting to meet up with someone. At the end of the day it’s all about making memories with those you care about and if you can do it on a budget while working towards saving for a financial goal you have by not spending lots then it’s a win, win for all.
As always, thank you for reading. Como siempre, gracias por leer.
