Here we are again, going over another 40 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 expensive are more expensive than others, 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 the hobbies are relatively affordable for the average person. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 40 hobbies!
1. Woodworking
If you find yourself fairly handy, then you could try out woodworking and learn the fundamentals of carpentry. You can fix existing furniture, or you could opt to build your own! Woodworking is limitless, and can offer endless hours of a productive use of your time. You could even great gifts or items to sell. Buying the tools can be expensive at first, but they’re well worth the investment.
2. Coffee
I think almost everyone has tried coffee before. Whether you like it or not, you can’t deny coffee’s influence and popularity in the Western world. The strong flavors and aromas remind us of many things – food, childhood memories, friends, family, and so on. It’s a surprisingly significant part of life. In fact, many people are practically obsessed with it. If you fall into that category, and want to know more about how to save money while enjoying your coffee, then this is the perfect article for you!
3. Building Model Kits
For those who don’t know, building models is a great hobby where you create a physical representation (also known as a model) of some object or place through kits or built from scratch using materials found by the model builder. Model kits come with all the pieces needed to make one complete model. There are a variety of common scales used for different types of kits – like 1/144 or 1/60. Models are usually created in such a way that it is substantially smaller than the real thing, but proportionally accurate.
Building From Scratch
Once you develop your skills, you can always build from scratch. A lot of times, this may be the cheapest option when you’re on a tight budget. At the same time, it can be incredibly difficult. A great place to start is by saving materials from boxes and equipment you usually throw away. It pays to be creative here! Check out this video of someone building Howl’s castle from scratch. I’m not necessarily recommending a project of this size, but it can give you tons of ideas.
4. Whiskey
I like whiskey. I mean, really like whiskey. What’s not to love about it? It tastes great, there are tons of great bottles out there, and you can still find great value in the modern marketplace. Moderation, as with everything, is still key. The easiest way to save money on whiskey is to just not overdo it. Enjoy it, but don’t take it to unhealthy levels. Now, if you’ve got that little moderation part down, there are still tons of things to do to make this hobby more affordable.
5. Meditation
Like yoga, this can be a great way to relax and unwind. If you find yourself stressing about everything in your life, this may be exactly what you need. The potential mental health benefits are astounding. Of course, unlike yoga, this isn’t a very physical activity. That can be a good or bad thing. If you’re hesitant, just give it a try – you might be surprised!
6. Tennis
Sports, generally, are great and productive hobbies. This is true for a lot of sports, but I’d like to use basketball as an example – as I did in my original article on frugal hobbies. It’s easy to do regularly, and it’s not as expensive as you would expect.
7. Crochet
A great hobby for those who like creating their own textiles, crocheting gives you the chance to occupy yourself while producing something you can use later.
8. Beadwork
Have a taste for the decorative? Practicing beadwork can give you artistic pieces to enjoy without breaking the bank!
9. Single Malt
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of scotch. I mean, it’s hard not to be when it’s absolutely delicious. What’s not to love about it? It tastes great, there are tons of great bottles out there, and you can still find great value in the modern marketplace. Moderation, as with everything, is still key. The easiest way to save money on scotch is to just not overdo it. Enjoy it, but don’t take it to unhealthy levels. Again, if you’ve got that little moderation part down, there are still tons of ways to make this hobby more affordable.
10. Tea
Tea is another beverage that has had a world-wide influence. It’s not quite as popular in the West as coffee sometimes, but its impact isn’t to be disregarded either. Across the world, it’s more popular than coffee and it’s still certainly popular here. For those of you who like tea, you are already aware of all the amazing tea you can get at a cheap price!
11. Cross Stitch
Cross stitch is another great hobby to keep your hands occupied. Besides, it’s always nice to have a hobby where you’re producing a great end product!
12. Wine
Wine is a favorite for many it seems, even beyond whiskey. Everywhere I go, I see people talking about wine, drinking wine, laughing at corny jokes on wine merchandise, and so on. Whether you realize it or not, it’s a surprisingly influential component of our culture, and it’s a passion shared by many. Of course, since wine is something a lot of people partake in, it’s an area where a lot of people may not realize they can save money.
That’s where I come in. It’s time to break down some ways you can save money on wine, as well as give some general pointers on various aspects of the hobby.
Drink What You Like
Obviously, you should drink what you like. It seems clear to a lot of people that you should drink what you like, but many others drink to impress or based purely on hearsay. Chill out with that. If you like a specific wine, it’s okay to drink it. A lot of people feel some shame about the wine they like because it’s not a “high end” bottle, or it’s not one some famous person recommends. At the end of the day, all the matters for your personal wine drinking is that you enjoy your wine. Stop trying to impress others.
Don’t Be Afraid To Try New Wine Though
With that said, it’s still a good idea to try new wine. Drink what you like, appreciate it, but once in a blue moon it’s wise to try a little taste of something new to expand your horizons. You may hate it, which is fine. Yet, I think it’s worth the risk since you may find something else you can add to your main rotation that you absolutely love.
So, stick to what you like and occasionally try something new. If you don’t like it, don’t buy a bottle. If you like it, then enjoy it! That’ll help with your enjoyment of the hobby. If you drink things just to fit in, you could end up ruining something you genuinely love. (PASSIONLINK HERE)
13. Bowling
Bowling isn’t for everyone, but it usually won’t break the bank. It’s a great hobby for those who like a casual social atmosphere and like to hone their hand-eye coordination.
14. Swimming
Swimming is another great physical activity. It can help you stay in shape, and it offers an alternative to sources of cardio that many people don’t like – including running. If you are wanting to incorporate more cardio and exercise in your life, but don’t like some of the other options, try this out. You may find that you love it!
15. Cigars
Ah, nothing reminds me of relaxing with friends quite like cigars. Many are put off by the smell, strength, and potential health hazards. Fortunately, there are workaround for the odor, and you get used to the strength of a full-bodied stogie over time. Unfortunately, the potential health ramifications can be a bit much, especially if you’re a daily smoker. On top of that, this is a hobby that is notorious for racking up a large bill.
For those who enjoy the finer things in life, and the social aspect, you may find it enjoyable, if not worthwhile.
16. Metalworking
If you find yourself fairly handy, then you could try out metalworking and learn the fundamentals to help you build your own tools and trinkets. You can fix components of your house or equipment, or make things completely from scratch! It is almost limitless, and can offer endless hours of a productive use of your time. You could even create gifts or items to sell.
17. Teaching
Teaching, or mentoring, is basically free. Plus, what’s not to love about it? By teaching people in your spare time, you’re helping a whole new generation of people grow and succeed as individuals!
18. Canning
Canning is a fun way to preserve food. Combine this with something like meal prep, and there are tons of things you could do that would be healthy and productive!
19. Antiquing
This may not sound frugal at first, but if you know what you’re doing then it’s possible to find amazing décor for a cheap price!
20. Leatherworking
Again, who doesn’t like making things with their own hands? If you want to get crafty, and you enjoy working more with leather than other materials, then give this hobby a shot.
21. Martial Arts & Self Defense
Take the time to join a gym and learn a martial art or form of self defense (e.g. boxing, BJJ, judo, krav maga). It has a lot more value than most people give it credit – obviously you’ll be learning skills needed for self-defense, but you’ll also be gaining discipline and the ability to persevere through hardships. Often, this can also help with your ability to focus and plan a few steps ahead.
In addition to all of that, learning a martial art or other self-defense method can have huge fitness bonuses. On top of a solid full-body workout, you’ll also being increasing your stamina, coordination, balance, speed, strength, and the control you have over your own movements. Give it a try!
22. Listening To Podcasts
Every thought about becoming some sort of influencer? Podcasting is a great way to do that! All you need is some basic audio equipment, a topic, and the tenacity to start and stick to it. When it comes down to it, anyone can start a podcast quite easily. If it’s something you’ve thought about, take your shot. It’s a cheap hobby, and it can teach you a lot along the way.
23. Karaoke
As far as hobbies go, this one is fairly cheap. Besides, you get to work on that amazing voice of yours!
24. Pottery
There are a lot of different ways you can go with pottery, and many of them have amazing uses. If you’re interested, don’t be afraid to give it a shot, you may be surprised at what you can do.
25. Quilting
This is an enjoyable hobby that gives you something to do with your hands. It can entertain you, and then when you’re done you have a new piece you’ve made to enjoy!
26. Pets
Everyone has a soft spot for dogs and cats, so it’s only natural to have one or two in your house. Take them on hikes, play with them, and learn how to train them!
27. Paper Crafts
Paper crafts, like origami, may not sound enthralling, but it takes time, patience, and it is a neat skill to have. Beyond that, it can help you with some of your other artistic pursuits too.
28. Bug Collecting
This one isn’t necessarily for the faint of heart, but it’s cheap to begin and can offer a world of research to dive into once you get going!
29. Glassblowing
The pretty designs you can make through glassblowing are absolutely mind-boggling. If you like the idea, your local community college or community center may have classes!
30. Boating
If you enjoy the water, but aren’t content with just fishing, then learn about boating. It can be an expensive hobby to pick up, but you’ll learn a lot and have tons of fun in the meantime.
31. Genealogy
Researching who you are or where you come from can be a great undertaking if you want to learn more about yourself. With all the technological advancements these days, it’s easier than ever to get started!
32. Grilling
We can all enjoy a good meal. If you want to make better dishes than ever before, or you just want to lean into the suburban dad stereotypes, then get yourself a grill and start making some great meals!
33. Soap Making
You can make your own scents, plus it lets you make something you can use immediately – what’s not to love?
34. Digital Art
Art is a wide hobby, with countless niches to dive into. One of those, digital art, only requires a computer – and it could even help you land a job one day!
35. Card Games
All you need is a pack of cards and to learn the rules to some basic card games. It’s a classic for a reason.
36. Listening To Music
Learning about music, and creating music are all fun hobbies that can teach you more about music as well as give you another way to socialize. If you’re exceptionally passionate about music, then do yourself a favor and just dive in.
37. Skating
Skating can seem intimidating at first, but it’s more about practice than fancy equipment. It’s relatively cheap and easy to start, as long as you’re willing to fall down and pick yourself back up repeatedly!
38. Refinishing Furniture
Do you have old furniture that you’d love to see get more use or sell for a higher price? Learn how to start refinishing furniture! It can help you save a lot of money in the long run.
39. Homesteading
Similar to gardening, this sends you outside and has you constantly enjoying the greenery and the sunlight. Homesteading also helps you save money. You could produce your own eggs, chicken, dairy products, and even wool! There are tons of options available to you, so you can just go with what sounds the best to you – whether that’s growing some crops or managing livestock.
40. Sudoku
Sudoku may not sound like a great hobby, but it’s an excellent way to keep your mind sharp. Just don’t overdo it, as Sudoku may get tiresome if you do it constantly – find a nice balance instead.
Conclusion
There we have it, another 40 frugal hobbies that you can jump into today! If you have any recommendations of your own, let us know in the comments.
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