How To Socialise On A Budget
We’re fully into the most social part of the year with Christmas catch ups in full swing. After not being able to see people for the festive season last year I’m so happy that we can this year. But all of this socialising can be expensive, and that’s without all the rest of the expenses that the festive season brings. If you’re looking to socialise on a budget I’ve brought together some of my top tips.
You may want to use these over the coming weeks, or perhaps in January when you’re skint. Or even throughout the yet to minimise your spending.
Plan a budget
The best thing you can do to socialise on a budget is to work out what that budget is. What can you afford to spend when going out. It might be that you’re having a super tight month and can’t afford much. Or it may be that you’ve stashed some cash to go out but don’t want to blow it all.
You may have started a sinking fund for this. If so good on you! But if not don’t be tempted to take money out of other savings pots or your emergency fund unless it’s 100% necessary. There are plenty of ways you can see people and catch up without having to use your savings.
If you want to do bigger things like a weekend away with your friends, or a trip to the theatre plan this all into your budget.
Socialise on a budget by being upfront
Tell your friends you’re on a budget when you’re planning to meet up, or when you’re out. You may find that others are relieved as they feel the same but didn’t want to say. These are your friends so being together is the more important thing.
Make it clear if you’re going out and want to buy your own drinks rather than getting caught up doing rounds. Or if you’re at a restaurant and want to stick with just paying for what you ate so you can save some pennies.
Look out for deals or discounts
If there are certain things you’re set on doing when you socialise such as a show, meal, or an event there are ways to do this for less.
If you want to go to the theatre keep an eye on Today Tix as they have some good deals and discounts. And you can usually get on the deal rush tickets for a great price.
If you want to go for drinks look out for a bar that does happy hour and suggest meeting at that time. Book restaurants with good set-menu’s or during the week when it may be cheaper. You can also look at things like a Taste Card which may save you money. Or MeerKat Meals & Movies gives you 2 for 1 at loads of restaurants.
Socialise on a budget by meeting indoors
Meeting up at someones house as opposed to going out can save a lot of money. And there are loads of fun things you can indoors. Perhaps you could suggest a cocktail making night and everyone brings a bottle/ ingredient to make them. Or you could do a buffet/ meal where everyone brings a dish. Although discuss what you’re bringing before so you don’t end up with 6 desserts and no savoury food, although how bad could that be?!
If you and your friends are crafty people you could choose to some crafts at home like wreath making for Christmas, scrapbooking or drawing.
What are your tips to socialise on a budget?
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18 responses to “How To Socialise On A Budget”
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Rhian Westbury
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I love socializing a lot…I usually opt for affordable but fun places and also have a budget set for socializing…
Having a budget for socialising is the best thing to do x
It’s tough being able to get out now but with the rising cost of things find something to do with your friends and family. Great tips here! Thanks for sharing.
It can be so expensive to just go out for a nice dinner and drinks x
Really useful tips on how to socialise when on a budget. I think being upfront is really good as some of your friends might be in the same situation but too embarrassed to say.
I find that being up front about the budget is the biggest thing. At first, it feels embarrassing, but friends really understand and are able to help loads with picking places that are budget friendly to meet up at.
And a lot of the time they’ll be relieved because they’re also trying to save money x
I love the idea of keeping it indoors, and having like you suggested – a cocktail making night, or snack making, or something to that effect! These are great tips!
Great tips. We also have it to where other people take turn paying when we go out so it keeps it pretty low key and affordable, too.
It is very good tips! After pandemic i actually realised importance of doing budget! Thanks for sharing with us.
It is important to make sure friends are aware first. Budgeting can help you prepare for when you do go out and not get too stressed.
Most friends really won’t mind spending less and will probably appreciate it x
I love to socialise but have always been aware of budgets, being open and upfront is the best way to be for everyone to have a good time
So true, you don’t want people worrying they can’t afford things x
I think it is so good to be upfront about how you’ll all pay when you go ut as a group. There are a few times I have been taken advantage of when I don’t drink alcohol and people bulldoze me into splitting the bill!
That’s the worst! x
It’s so easy for socialising to eat its way through all your spare money and beyond. I think it’s a good idea to set a budget.
I always look for vouchers online before we go to see if I can save some money!