In my series of articles on frugal hobbies, I break down an individual hobby for people who want to have fun without breaking the bank. The overview will include the details of the hobby itself, how to go into it with a frugal mindset, and the best ways to make use of your money. Not all of the hobbies covered are cheap or easy to get into, but I find ways to help you save money while still being able to partake in your favorite pastimes.
Walking
Let’s get this out of the way – hiking and walking are not the same. All hikes are walks, but not all walks are hikes. Make sense? So, for the purposes of this article, let’s just say “walking” is your casual 10-40 minute stroll through the neighborhood or park. It’s light exercise, easy to do, and even easier to fit into your schedule. It may not sound incredibly beneficial, yet it is. Walking daily can help you stay in decent shape and it can help you clear your mind. For those moments where you’re having a hard time figuring out a problem, a walk is the perfect way to relax, brainstorm, and figure out the issue at hand.
Short, Frequent Walks Are Completely Free
Walks through the neighborhood or a nearby park are perfect as a frugal pastime. It’s free, after all. Walks are a good way to use your time, and it’s an easier alternative to hiking if you find that to be a bit too much to handle.
Hiking
Hiking is a bit of a level higher than walking. For the purposes of this article, we’ll call hiking any long walk. So, let’s say anything that is at least an hour long, but it could be an all day event! This has all the same mental and physical benefits as walking, but kicked up a notch. Need to clear your head? A long hike may serve you better than a short walk. If you want to get in better shape, mixing hikes into your schedule can help a lot.
It’s Inexpensive, But Not Completely Free
Now, I will admit that it is usually a bit more expensive than your standard walks. First off, you likely will have to pay for gas to get to your hiking spot. Second, depending on the length of your hikes, you may need some additional equipment. Now, this will add some costs to the hobby, but it’s easy to keep in check, and it’s still cheap as far as most pastimes are concerned.
It Pays To Plan Your Hike
I know it can be hard to work hikes into your schedule, but you need to plan them out. Have an expected arrival time and a window for how long you’re able to stay there to hike. This sounds silly, but it’s a big part of hiking and not shooting yourself in the foot (so to speak). For example, when you plan on hiking, be sure to check the weather report in advance. You don’t want to get to your hiking destination only to have to end it early because of rain or other inclement weather. Instead of wasting your time and gas, just do a quick check on things like that or opening and closing times.
Bring Your Friends Or Dogs
As always, I love to point out the social aspect of hobbies. Hiking can be a great time to bring friends, pets, or even your kids. It can be the perfect bonding experience, and a way to spend some time outside with them. Of course, if you prefer using your hiking time as “you” time, that’s fine as well. Just remember that it’s always an option to share this pastime with those close to you!
Gear
Now, let’s get into the main costs associated with hiking – that you won’t have to deal with on your normal walks. Again, it may sound like a lot at first, but it’s really not. Also, many of these items aren’t required at all times. It really depends on what you want and how intense your hikes are.
Snacks
First up, you’ll need to bring some snacks along the way. You don’t have to go crazy with it, but it’s wise to having something that will help you replenish your energy, especially on longer hikes. If you have other people tagging along, then you’ll need to bring extra snacks.
Another helpful tip is to have your meal after your hike planned. Perhaps you can do some meal planning and preparation, so it’s ready to eat as soon as you get home. Alternatively, maybe you’re eating with a friend or going out to eat. Either way, have a plan for your meal because you could be completely exhausted afterwards.
Comfortable, But Appropriate, Clothes
Whatever clothes you wear should be comfortable, but they should also be appropriate – meaning they should be fairly durable. Some decent jeans and a t-shirt could do the job, depending on the trails, but just keep this in mind overall.
Boots Or Hiking Shoes
This also brings up footwear. Whether you opt for boots or hiking shoes, make sure you wear something that will protect your feet. Basic sneakers likely won’t cut it, and open-toed shoes are asking for a nightmarish hike.
Water Bottles
You have to stay hydrated! Buy a cheap, but large, bottle to hold your water and fill up before you leave the house. This is really easy and cheap to do, plus it’s for your health, so there is no reason not to. Play it safe and bring some water.
A Bag
Naturally, if you’re carrying a lot of stuff then you’ll need a bag. These can range from a small gym bag to a huge bag you truck along with you. Again, this really just depends on what your hikes are like. If it’s only a couple of hours, then you should be good with a simple gym bag or the like. If you’re hiking all day, then you may need something bigger and sturdier.
First Aid Kit
For long hikes especially, first aid kits are useful. Again, it’s best to play it safe, so if you hike a lot (and for long periods of time), then it would be a good investment. If you bring along kids, I’d say it’s pretty much mandatory – there are going to be some scrapes at some point.
Multitool
A cheap, simple multitool will do the trick for most people. Don’t overcomplicate this or go with the biggest and shiniest gadget. Just grab a multitool that has what you need – or might need – on your hike and you’ll be set.
Maps
Depending on the area where you hike, this could be a must or completely obsolete. If you’re hiking all day and the trails aren’t clearly laid out and there is a risk of getting lost, then you should just bring a map. For simple local trails that are well-trodden and clear, then maps may be unnecessary. Make the best choice for your needs.
Cameras
A camera definitely is not a requirement, but if you enjoy taking pictures of nature, then it could be a great addition. Of course, for the average person they should be well served with just their phone. For people who are more interested in photography – that’s a hobby to cover another day.
Using The Same Specialty Gear Is Actually Beneficial
If you get specialty gear, in my opinion it is best to stick to a specific one and reuse it. There is no need for an excess of gear and gadgets. It’s better to get one that suits your needs, which you can get used to, and that will last a long time. In short, it’s better to buy a quality product and learn how to properly use it than it is to buy a bunch of other stuff that you don’t have time to learn how to use.
Other Costs To Consider
There are some other costs to consider, but they shouldn’t be a significant deterrent.
Travel And Gas
First up, travel time and gas always need to be taken into account. Gas usually won’t break the bank. You likely have good trails within an hour or two of you, if not closer. Of course, for “special” hikes you could always plan it like a vacation and do a whole weekend getaway!
Entry Fees
Some places have entrance fees, but they’re usually small. This is also a rare expense, but it does happen occasionally. Just keep it in mind and in your budget if you need to.
Conclusion
Hopefully this has convinced you that hiking and walking are great hobbies – and perfect for a frugal lifestyle. If you have any thoughts or tips of your own, please let us know in the comments!
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