Is It Still Possible to Be Social on a Budget?
Pricey social occasions might seem like the only way to keep in touch with friends, but for many the hefty cost attached is a killer. Especially when you have bills, groceries, and other costs you may feel like you need to refuse friend catch ups because of the ever-inflating prices. Don’t worry, Swoosh has you covered. This blog shares some tips on how to successfully socialise on a budget without worrying about your bank account. Additionally, a short term loan may come in use if you have a special occasion that just cannot wait.
Overview:
- Make a budget
- More affordable food and drinks
- Potluck parties
- Stay at home
- Outdoor activities
- Free events around town
How to socialise on a budget?
Make a budget
A budget is a great way to keep track of how much money you are spending each week. Once you have factored in your bills and the savings for the week then you can use the rest of your paycheck on socialising. By splitting your paycheck into bills, savings and spending money you can easily see where all your money is going.
The best way is to pay all your bills as soon as that paycheck comes in. This always lets you know how much money you have left to socialise with others – you might opt for the cheaper drink or option if you only have a finite amount of money to play with.
A great way to keep track of your budget is to use a money management app that can help you keep track of your spending habits and still have funds to socialise on a budget.
More affordable food and drinks
With the right approach, often expensive social events at bars and restaurants can be avoided. Websites that map the food and drink specials around town, such as The Happiest Hour, are always a good resource as they’ll tell you exactly what night a venue might be having food specials. That way, if you’re feeling like a burger, you can choose a venue that has a special and potentially pay half the price! The same goes for bars and pubs – find out when happy hours are so that you can get some cheap drinks
Sites like Groupon are also a great resource for cheap meals, as they often have deals saving diners up to half price, and these deals can be used any time of the week! You’re on your way to socialise on a budget!
Potluck parties
Potluck parties are parties in which every guest brings their own plate of food. This way, everyone shares the cost and preparation time, which makes things significantly easier for the host. Just make sure that everyone brings something different! And if your friends are also saving money, they’ll be happy to socialise on a budget.
Because everyone brings something specific, it makes costs very easy to manage, unlike being out at a restaurant or a bar.
Stay at home
The easiest way to socialise on a budget is to invite friends over to your house. Whether it’s for a game night, potluck dinner or a chill movie night, socialising at home is always more affordable than going out. The only cost when socialising at home is making sure you have plenty of food and drinks for your guests.
Outdoor activities
If you’re the type of person who enjoys being active, why not socialise and stay active all in one go. Invite a friend to go walking/jog with you through the park, or you could invite a friend to go with you to the gym or a work out class. This way you are still socialising on a budget as you would be doing these activities anyway. This also allows you to spend one on one time with a friend or family member while staying active.
Free events around town
If you feel like adventuring outside of the home, free events are around every corner. Facebook easily allows for people to search for events in their area, and determining if they’re free or not is just as easy.
Looking to local cultural institutions is also a great way to save money and learn a thing or two on the weekend. Many cities have local museums and art galleries that are free every day of the year. It’s important not to forget about these, as they often cycle through exhibitions, bringing in brand new things to see, hear and even touch. Check the websites of your local art gallery or museum regularly to find what they have on.
Looking to bolster your social budget? Swoosh has you covered!
If you have a special occasion or similar that might benefit from a larger budget, a short term loan could be the way to go. With our simple application and 100% online process, get in touch with our team today. Apply now so you can socialise with friends and family without breaking the bank.
