There has been a recent surge in people trying to leave social media because of all the recent controversies and bans.
That means that it’s time to start engaging in some real-life hobbies. While we might have all turned to our phones and media in recent years to entertain ourselves, our grandparents didn’t have that option. That meant that they spent a lot of time doing actual hobbies.
Maybe it’s time to revisit some of the old-fashioned “boomer hobbies from the “olden days.”
Here are some great ones for you to consider!
Here are some great hobbies that you can start without spending too much money.
Whittling
Whittling is a perfect example of how a simple activity can lead to satisfying results. Getting started requires little more than a basic knife and a few sticks. You can pick up a budget-friendly knife, perhaps even from a gas station, and learn the basics like stripping bark, carving a point, or shaping a sphere. Of course, it’s important to take safety precautions. Whittling can be dangerous if you’re not careful—after all, one person learned the hard way, accidentally cutting through tendons at the age of eight. But with proper focus and care, it’s a fulfilling hobby that anyone can learn and enjoy.
Origami
Origami is a wonderful way to challenge your creativity with just a piece of paper. You don’t need expensive materials—free patterns abound online, and with a little practice, you can create stunning pieces. The beauty of origami lies in the simplicity of the individual folds, but the final results can be truly impressive. Plus, it’s a skill you can continuously improve upon, from basic designs to more complex structures.
Juggling
If you want a hobby that challenges your coordination and provides hours of fun, juggling is a fantastic choice. All you need to get started are a few lightweight balls or even makeshift ones, such as rice-filled balloons. You don’t need to spend much, and the sense of achievement when you successfully juggle for the first time is priceless.
Drawing
Drawing is one of the most accessible creative hobbies around. You can get started for just a couple of dollars at your local dollar store—pick up a notebook and a pack of pencils, and you’re ready to go. Whether you’re sketching casually or practicing more intricate techniques, drawing is a simple yet endlessly creative outlet. You can experiment with different styles and mediums as you develop your skills.
Gardening
Gardening is an incredibly rewarding hobby that requires little investment beyond time and patience. Many people start with basic seeds or even cuttings from plants they already have. Some public libraries even offer Seed Libraries, allowing you to pick up supplies for free. Whether you’re growing herbs, vegetables, or flowers, you’ll not only find satisfaction in your garden’s growth but also in the knowledge you gain along the way.
Writing
Writing is an incredibly affordable hobby—virtually free, in fact. Thanks to public libraries and free online tools like Google Docs, you have everything you need to start writing right at your fingertips. Whether you’re journaling, blogging, or working on a novel, writing allows you to express your thoughts and feelings creatively without spending a dime. Some people even take advantage of free pens and paper from local businesses to make this hobby even more cost-effective.
Hiking
For nature lovers, hiking offers a perfect escape, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Many trails are well-maintained and can be accessed for little or no cost. You don’t need fancy hiking gear to enjoy a hike—basic athletic shoes and a water bottle are often enough. For those lucky enough to live near beautiful hiking locations, this hobby offers an ideal way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.
Bird Watching
Do you have grandparents who love watching birds? Birdwatching is a therapeutic hobby that allows you to connect with nature and observe wildlife. With just a pair of binoculars and a free app like Audubon, you can easily identify different species by their call, location, or wing shape. This hobby can be done anywhere—from your backyard to local parks—offering a calm, reflective way to spend your time.
Sourdough Bread Baking
Baking sourdough bread can become an incredibly rewarding hobby. While there’s an initial cost for flour, once your starter is ready, you’ll find the ongoing costs minimal. The process of creating the starter might be frustrating at first, but the satisfaction of baking your own bread is worth the effort. Plus, the final product is delicious and can even become a gift for others once you master it.
Running
Running is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to stay fit. You don’t need to join a gym or buy expensive equipment—just put on a pair of sneakers and head out the door. Many people enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing races, and there are plenty of free local events, like Parkrun, where you can join others for a fun, community-driven run.
Stargazing
Stargazing is a hobby that requires only a clear night and a little curiosity. Even without a telescope, you can enjoy identifying stars and planets. If you’re lucky enough to live in an area with minimal light pollution, you can enjoy stunning views of the night sky right from your own backyard or a nearby field.
Bushcraft
For those who love the outdoors, bushcraft offers the chance to connect with nature on a deeper level. It’s about learning to survive using only the resources around you. While it’s possible to start bushcraft with nothing but a few basic tools, many find themselves becoming engrossed in learning traditional skills like weaving baskets from vines or crafting shelters from branches. It’s a hobby that offers both practical skills and the joy of self-sufficiency.
Cycling
Cycling is another fantastic way to stay fit and explore your surroundings. While a high-end bike can be expensive, you can find affordable second-hand bikes at thrift stores. Many people start out on older, less expensive bikes and gradually upgrade as they gain experience. Cycling offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore your town, city, or countryside without needing the latest gear.
Photography
Photography doesn’t require an expensive camera to start—just a willingness to capture the beauty in everyday moments. Whether you’re using a smartphone or an entry-level point-and-shoot camera, the key is to experiment and find what fascinates you. Photography allows you to express your perspective on the world and can lead to surprising and creative results.
Knitting
Knitting is a low-cost hobby that can result in cozy, handmade items like scarves, hats, and blankets. You can keep it budget-friendly by buying yarn from a big-box store, and creating something with your hands is deeply satisfying. Plus, you’ll end up with thoughtful and meaningful gifts, or you can donate your knitted items to charity.
Fishing
Fishing can be an expensive hobby, especially when buying initial equipment, but the ongoing costs are minimal once you have your rod and tackle. Before you start, make sure to ask around family, friends, or Buy Nothing groups to see if anyone is giving away old equipment.
You can also shop at thrift stores and get stuff for much cheaper. You don’t need top-of-the-line equipment to get started. It’s a hobby that teaches patience and offers the opportunity to relax in nature. And for many, the thrill of catching something makes the experience all the more rewarding.
Meditation
Meditation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your mental health. It requires no special equipment, just a quiet space and a willingness to focus on your breath. With regular practice, you’ll find that meditation can bring a sense of peace and clarity to your life.
Calligraphy
For those with an eye for beautiful handwriting, calligraphy offers a chance to develop a skill that could even turn into a side hustle. Once you master the basics, you might find that people are willing to pay for your services to create elegant invitations or personalized stationery.
