Here we are again, going over another 20 frugal hobbies. I went over 20 in my original article, but I figured I may as well cover more – since there are so many great frugal hobbies out there! Some of these hobbies are cheap and others are a bit more expensive, but they all can be kept to a tight budget or can be used to help you save money. The main criteria I focused on was hobbies that are relatively affordable for the average person. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 20 hobbies!
1. Fishing
Fishing is a nice hobby, plus it’s something you can use to bond with a loved one. Sometimes it is important to slow things down, enjoy the scenery, and just enjoy the process – which you can get with fishing! It’s also relatively easy to keep it to a budget, depending on the type of fishing.
2. Puzzles
Puzzles, like board games, are a fun activity to do on a tabletop that can just eat up hours of your time. Considering that you can get a decent puzzle for $5-10, this is definitely worthwhile considering how much fun you can get out of the experience. So, per dollar I think it’s a pretty decent deal, and it can keep your mind sharp and engaged!
3. Coloring
These days, more and more adults are coloring – it’s a pretty common occurrence. In a way, it’s quite relaxing, which may be why it’s becoming more popular. Besides, it’s an incredibly cheap hobby so get yourself an adult coloring book and try it out!
4. Worldbuilding
In my opinion, writing is one of the absolute best uses of your free time. It’s a great way to channel your creative energy and it makes you a better communicator over time. You can write about literally anything – and this is where worldbuilding comes in for a lot of people. If you like writing about fantastical worlds, then this can be a wonderful pastime that exercises your creative muscles.
5. Starting A YouTube channel
YouTube is a great way to build a creative outlet for yourself. Make content on whatever interests you and slowly build a brand! One nice thing about this hobby is that you can actually end up making a lot of money from it eventually. It’s a great pick for those who like the perks of writing, but are more interested in public speaking and video editing.
6. Blogging
Blogging is a huge creative outlet for people, and possibly a good way to make extra cash. Pick something you like writing about and just get started with it! It pays to not overcomplicate things. Just start, narrow your niche, and have some fun with it.
If you want to write, but don’t know where to start, I recommend starting a journal or picking a topic to write 500 words about a night. If you want more tips, check out my guide to starting a new blog.
7. Sculpting
Sculpting may not seem particularly frugal at first, but it actually isn’t as expensive as many people think. Besides, it can even help you figure out your thoughts and feelings – and then give them form. So, for stress-relief and self-reflection, sculpting is one of the best uses of your free time and is something other people will be able to appreciate when they see too.
8. Watch Movies And TV Shows
Hey, this hobby isn’t really productive or even healthy – but it’s cheap. I don’t recommend doing this constantly, but it can be nice to lay back, relax, and watch a good movie or tv show with your family or significant other.
9. Get Handy With DIY Projects
This is somewhat similar to a lot of your typical craft hobbies. If you want to work with your hands, but don’t necessarily enjoy activities like carpentry, try doing some DIY projects. It doesn’t have to be crazy or over the top, but DIY projects can be a fulfilling pastime. On top of that, it can also help you save money. Of course, for major projects that could be dangerous, I would suggest hiring a professional.
10. Dancing
A great way to exercise, dancing mixes fitness, creativity, and memory into a single hobby. Many dances can be physically demanding, making your own takes some thought, and learning all the steps to a routine requires some dedication. It’s also tons of fun, particularly if you have a partner to practice with. Like hiking and running, staying active in a light-hearted way can help you reduce your stress.
Keeping your mental and physical skills sharps? Loads of fun? Sign me up!
11. Birdwatching
If you haven’t noticed yet, I really enjoy the outdoors and nature! Birdwatching not only keeps you outside, but it helps you learn about the local wildlife. Plus, there is a beauty in many birds which makes them fun to watch.
12. Amateur Astronomy
If you’re into stargazing, then this hobby is for you. Keep it simple, and consequently cheap, and you’ll have tons of fun looking at the stars without breaking the bank!
13. Geocaching
Geocaching isn’t for everyone, but it really appeals to a specific group of people. If you’ve been trying to get out and be more active, this can be a way for you to encourage yourself and add a bit of fun to the experience!
14. Learn A Language
Learning how to communicate with an entirely new group of people can open a lot of doors, and it doesn’t look too shabby on a resume. Another bonus is that it keeps you sharp and helps with your overall communication skills – learning another language can teach you a lot about your own.
This also goes hand-in-hand with traveling – it’s easier to learn when you’re immersed. Of course, I’d recommend learning at least a few common words and phrases of the language before you go.
15. Berry Picking
Go out and pick some berries. It doesn’t have to be expensive – in fact, depending on where you are, it could be free. Plus, you’ll get to go home with some delicious fruit to eat. Tasty, healthy, and it keeps you active – sounds like a good deal to me.
16. Dog Walking
If you love cute dogs, then dog walking could be the perfect hobby – and bring you some extra cash. You’ll get to meet new dogs all the time, have fun with them, walk them around, and you won’t be responsible for them afterwards. You’re basically getting paid to just have fun with dogs – which is perfect for any dog lover!
17. Camping
Another outdoor activity, camping can help you get real close and comfortable with the outdoors. It can reconnect you with a more relaxed atmosphere, and it can be a great bonding experience for a family. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of camping, it’s worth a shot to camp with friends or family every few years.
18. Grilling
This is something everyone should should probably try at some point. We all need to eat, so this hobby offers daily opportunities to enjoy it and reap the rewards (like tasty meals). Beyond that, grilling is a great way to keep yourself healthy.
19. Writing Music
Learning to play an instrument is good for cognitive development and learning to play some can help with other skills like hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Beyond that, if you really like music, find a way to learn how to make some of your own – it’s worthwhile! There is a huge sense of satisfaction you’ll get from learning to write your own music.
20. Pipe Tobacco
Smoking pipe tobacco is an interesting hobby, although it’s somewhat niche these days. After all, smoking in general tends to get a lot of hate. Between the risks that come with it and all the propaganda pushing people to quit smoking cigars and cigarettes, it may seem like nobody is doing it anymore. Well, they definitely are, although in the case of pipe tobacco the numbers have become quite diminished. If you smoke cigars or cigarettes, you may end up finding that you prefer pipe tobacco – and no, that doesn’t make you a geezer or a hipster. It’s particularly great if you’re a smoker on a tight budget.
Conclusion
Hopefully these 20 frugal hobbies gave you an idea for something you can try yourself. If you have any hobbies of your own to throw in the mix, or ways to save on them, let us know in the comments!
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