Living large doesn’t have to come with a CVS receipt to match. Here are six ways people used to enjoy the lap of luxury on a penny-pinching budget.
Take Shorter Trips or Go On Weekend Getaways
The concept of a two-week vacation in the Pocanos sounds incredibly enticing, and we aren’t suggesting you don’t eventually do this.
But if you want to live big and spend small, try breaking up your trips into bite-sized adventures. A good example would be taking a road trip one month, a staycation the next, and then maybe a larger three-day vacation somewhere exotic. Chances are the final bill is cheaper, but you’ve still had three unique and exciting experiences!
Look for Free Entertainment Options
There are tons of free entertainment options if you know where to look, even in your own city. Do a quick search online for upcoming free events. You’ll probably be floored by how much you could fill up your calendar with low or no-cost things to do.
If you need to get more specific, try checking websites like your local library or parks. They often have a calendar already packed with events that you can attend.
Spend More Time Outside
What could be living bigger than going for a hike? Nothing makes you feel more like you’re a part of something greater than yourself than swimming in the ocean or a trek through the forest.
Most people don’t spend enough time in nature anymore, and that’s a shame. Not just because it’s good for you, but because it’s dirt cheap — literally.
Use a Rewards Credit Card (Wisely)
If you’re going to use a credit card anyway, you might as well let it work for you. This means making things more affordable by using a rewards card, paying it off right away, and then spending the points on whatever you’d like.
Just be careful and know yourself; if you struggle with budgeting, this will likely backfire unless you do everything in your power to avoid falling into debt.
Go Cash Only for Certain Purchases
Adopting a “cash only” approach to your “fun money” budget has many benefits. For starters, it makes you more aware of your spending.
But this awareness also means you spend less and ignore impulse purchases. Instead, you’ll whip out the cash for moments that really matter and do it guilt-free! And what could be a better way to live big than to live free from financial guilt?
Cook at Home
Bear with us here. No, it doesn’t sound “luxurious” to be in the kitchen all day making meals. But once you consider just how much nicer those dinners can be for a fraction of what you’d pay for delivery, you start to realize that this is the secret to eating well!
Cooking at home also means it’s more affordable to enjoy your favorites that might be more expensive when you’re dining out. Master a few recipes, spend a few hours a week cooking, and you’ll shrink your food budget while growing your quality of life.
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