Living your best life on a Budget
BY ROXY ALLNUTT
Frugal fun things to do that won't break the bank.
10 AUG - 2023
Giving a big middle finger to the rising cost of living and our sanity.
Living your best life has become quite the challenge these days. With the cost of living skyrocketing faster than a SpaceX rocket and the gloom of seasonal depression looming like a dark cloud, it's easy to feel like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place. But fear not, my fellow budget warriors, because I'm here to arm you with the knowledge and ideas to conquer these obstacles and still have a damn good time in 2023.
We all know that feeling when our bank accounts resemble a barren desert and our dreams of lavish adventures seem like a distant mirage. The world keeps getting more expensive, and it can be frustrating as hell. But let's not let that bring us down. Instead, let's embrace the challenge and find fresh ways to make every dollar stretch, while having a blast and keeping our sanity intact.
To make matters worse, the seasons play a wicked game with our emotions. As the days grow shorter and the chill in the air becomes more palpable, many of us find ourselves trapped in the jaws of seasonal depression. The gloomy weather and lack of sunlight can drain our energy and dampen our spirits. But I’m not going for a repeat of last year’s seasonal depression. This year, I’m infusing my weekends with cheap and fun activities which I simply had to share with our Chatty readers.
Hot Girl Walks
We are blessed with breathtaking landscapes, and the best part is, that exploring nature is completely free! Americans love to call it a hike, we tend just to call it a walk. For our Auckland readers, the Waitakere Ranges and even Mount Eden’s peak are all incredible options to get amongst. Going for walks are fantastic way to get some exercise, reconnect with nature, and capture Insta-worthy pictures. Key tip: Bring your own water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated along the way.
Thrifting
I feel like shopping, or in this case, window-shopping at a regular mall is an experience fizzing with fast-paced transactions everywhere, pressures to buy from staff and 9 times outta 10, we buy something we said we weren't going to.
Auckland is home to some fantastic thrift stores where you can find hidden gems at bargain prices. Not to mention the general acceptance where you can browse for half an hour and walk out with nothing. Grab your bestie, and check out places like Recycle Boutique, Tatty’s and Search and Destroy. Whether it's a vintage dress or a trendy jacket that really catches your eye, you'll score unique pieces that won't drain your bank account as harshly. Plus, it's eco-friendly too!
Embrace the Voucher
So I’m not sure if you remember those big fat entertainment books that were sold in fundraisers back in the school days? Well, my mum has never gotten off the Entertainment book grind and let me tell you it is a HACK for when you’re like me and like to dine out even when the bank account says no. GrabOne, First Table and Zomato all offer really affordable ways to eat at some of Auckland’s best spots and leave with in most cases 30% of your bill covered! Any dinner date I have coming up I will roar through the app and will always find a spot that fits perfectly and means we both get to save some pennies. If you are still seeking lux 5-star spots like Bivacco and Kol are serving lunch deals daily that are super affordable.
Movie Marathon Night
Why do we forget that movie marathons exist? If it's pissing down with rain and you and the girls have made plans to go for drinks, surely you can all get behind saving $25 a drink and having a cozy night in with your loved ones and some great movies. Whip up some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to binge-watch something nostalgic or something new. Wines and cocktails are still welcome and you can spend the evening snuggled up, costing you a FRACTION of what it would have been to go out.
Explore Local Markets
Auckland's markets are a treasure trove of local delights, and they don't have to cost you a fortune to enjoy. Head to La Cigale French Market for delicious coffees and pastries or the Otara Flea Market for a vibrant cultural experience and hearty food. You can savour delicious street food, browse unique crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere without spending big bucks. The best part is you can still roll out of bed at 10 am (dream) and with plenty of time to get your ass to a wholesome market.
Picnic in the Park
This one is more for when the sun is shining… but there's no better way to spend your day than with a good old-fashioned picnic. Pack some homemade sandwiches, grab a blanket, and head to one of your town’s beautiful parks. My go-to's are Grey Lynn Park or the Auckland Domain as they are the perfect spots to lounge around, soak up the sun, and enjoy some quality time with your girls. Not to mention how cute as fuck it is.
Spa Day
This one is for when you’re craving some me time. Pampering yourself doesn't have to cost a fortune and oh my gosh it's heaven. Treat yourself to a DIY spa day at home and let the stress of work and life melt away. Fill your bathroom with scented candles, put on a relaxing playlist, and indulge in a soothing bubble bath. Wash your hair, exfoliate, shave, moisturise and top it all off with a sheet face mask while you just close your eyes and ZZZ. You'll feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the week ahead knowing that you come first.
Outdoor Yoga
Find your zen and get your workout on with some outdoor yoga sessions. I’m sure there are plenty of parks and open spaces nearby where you can roll out your yoga mat and stretch those limbs. Join free or donation-based yoga classes in places like Albert Park or Western Springs and reconnect with your mind, body, and soul. Namaste, baby!
I really hope that these tips can help you to live your best life while not feeling like everything you do is weighing you down financially. With these frugal and fabulous ideas, you'll have a blast without denting your wallet. It may be a switch-up in your routine, but I really encourage you to be open to it and try to schedule at least one of these when you next have some time freed up. My biggest regret last year was being a depressed old sod just couching around until the next paycheck. Cheers to living large on a small budget!
RELATED STORIES
GIVEAWAY
SUBSCRIBE
Subscribe to Chatty Chum's mailing list to receive the latest in beauty and lifestyle news, giveaways and the launch of our Editor's Collection boxes.