Hanging Out Without Cashing Out

I’m pretty sure all of us have gone through that moment where our friends ask us to go hang out with them somewhere and you want to but your bank account is telling you otherwise. There are ways to still spend time with your friends even in hard times. Keep reading to see how you can have a good time without spending your last dime.

Go to Happy Hour/Matinee

Places like movie theaters, restaurants, and bars have certain times of the day or week where prices are discounted. Take advantage of those deals! You can save money just arriving early. It doesn’t get easier than that.

Order Strategically

There’s no rule saying that you have to order on the same level as everyone else. You can either stick to the most cost effective entrees or you can eat a little something beforehand so you only need to order an appetizer as your meal to be full. Just make sure you don’t skimp your waiter on the tip. If your bank account can’t even allow for that, then the next option is for you.

Be The Host

I find that I have the most meaningful conversations and get to really spend quality time with my friends when we are just hanging out at one of our homes. The best way to execute this plan is to host the potluck/movie night/game night at your house and have everyone else bring over food, drinks, etc. Not only do you save on the food/drinks, but you also save gas/Lyft money. 

Exercise Together

Meeting your friends at the park for a walk/run session is the next best low cost option to staying home. You’re only spending gas money to get there. Unless your neighborhood is walker-friendly, then y’all can meet at your house and you won’t spend anything. I’ve run with a friend both at the park and in her neighborhood and I’ve also spent time with coworkers walking outside during lunch. It feels good to not only get a workout in, but to also catch up with each other. Not to mention it costs basically nothing. 

These are just some of the things that I, myself, have done in order to not spend a lot of money while spending time with my friends. I find it important to not sacrifice your relationships just because of your financial situation. There’s always a way to get the best of both worlds; it may just take some creativity.