pastimes

25 Hobbies You Can Start for Under $10

Ashley Marcin — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 10:00:09 +0000

Exploring new hobbies and pastimes is a great way to feel better about yourself, develop new skills, and meet new people. Don't want to break the bank? You don't have to! Here's a long list of engaging, satisfying activities you can begin this year without spending much money. Most will set you back a mere $5 to $10. Better yet, a good majority of these activities are absolutely free.

1. Exercise

Getting fit is a common resolution each year. Make it your new go-to hobby to keep yourself more accountable. You can walk or run today for free. All you really need is to dust off that pair of athletic shoes in the back of your closet.

Not the running type? Head over to Fitness Blender for a wealth of free online workouts you can do in the comfort of your own living room.

2. Join a Sports Team

Working out solo might not be your style. Check around to find out what local sports leagues or teams meet in your area. My neighbor spends her summers running the fields with an adult soccer team that costs very little to join. I used to attempt to spike in the sand in a free beach volleyball group a few years ago.

You can browse sites like Sportsvite to find teams in your area.

3. Write

Do you have a story you're just waiting to tell the world? Try writing it down instead of running it over in your head. You can get into a writing habit by taking as little as 10 minutes each day to peck out a few sentences on your keyboard or in a notebook.

Need more motivation? Check your local calendar to see if there are any nearby writing groups that meet on a regular basis. Or create your own!

4. Blog

I've been blogging for over 10 years now. It's my main hobby, and it even turned into a part-time career. All you need is access to a computer and a free account at a site like Blogger. If you're having trouble getting started, try first brainstorming a few topics you'd like to cover. Do you want to share recipes? Your thoughts on current events? Experiment to see what gets your creative juices flowing, then push "Publish," even if it's only for your friends to read.

5. Try Vlogging

Similar to blogging, vlogging lets you share with the world in a very personal way. You can sign up on YouTube for a free account before you film yourself. You don't need fancy recording equipment, either. Many phones have built-in video these days. YouTube features very basic editing tools as well.

6. Practice Photography

Speaking of phones — many of them also have built-in cameras that would put old point-and-shoots to shame. In other words: You don't need a DSLR to learn how to take gorgeous photos. The iPhone Photography School has tons of free videos with all sorts of tips and tricks.

7. Play a Musical Instrument or Sing

I resurrected my singing pipes a few years ago by joining the women's chorus in my neighborhood. A few years before that, I spent a few bucks getting my violin refurbished from my high school years to sit in the community orchestra.

If you don't have an instrument at home already, consider asking a friend or relative if you can borrow theirs. My husband learned to play guitar last year by using my brother's spare guitar and watching tutorial videos he found online. You can also contact a local music shop to ask about rental prices.

8. Listen to Music

Don't have time to join a group? That's just fine and dandy. Why not listen to more music instead? I don't like to brag, but I can rap just like Daveed Diggs through Hamilton's "Guns and Ships." Switch on YouTube or Pandora or your radio to get free access to music right now.

9. Join Community Theater

Find out when your neighborhood's theater group is holding auditions for its next show. I just typed "community theater in my area" into Google and — within seconds — found the website for two local companies that cost nothing to join.

Never acted in a play before? Don't fret. There are often lots of "extras" in shows, so you don't have to worry about the pressure of playing lead.

10. Take Up Gardening

It's never too early to plan for your garden. If you start now, it doesn't need to cost you a whole lot, either. Head to your local library or purchase your own copy of Square Foot Gardening. Once you've drafted a loose plan, order seeds. DollarSeed boasts that you can order non-GMO and heirloom seeds for as little as $1 per pack.

The bonus here is that you can hopefully enjoy the fruits of your labor with some cheap food once everything grows.

11. Practice Cooking and Baking

Even if you don't want to grow your own food, you can still cook and bake for a hobby (and for your everyday life). You don't need to spend more than you're already putting out for your groceries each week. Consult that cookbook that's been sitting on your bookshelf for several years or pick one up at the library.

And if you don't want to buy specific ingredients, use what you have on hand! Sites like SuperCook give you tons of recipes you can search by the ingredients you already have in your pantry.

12. Become a Juggler

Join the other 2.4 million people who have watched this video on how to juggle on YouTube. You can snag an inexpensive set of three juggling balls for less than $6 on Amazon.

13. Enjoy Some Adult Coloring Books

De-stress and express yourself through coloring. By now, you may have seen all the awesome adult coloring books floating around everywhere. In fact, you can even get some cool ones on the cheap at the Dollar Store. Consider investing in some nice colored pencils that give you a variety of shades from which to choose.

14. Try Drawing

Rather not color inside the lines? Drawing is another free activity you can try. Even kids can get in on the action. My five-year-old daughter loves following along with different projects on Art for Kids Hub.

15. Try Knitting

If making a scarf sounds appealing to you, take a few bucks to your nearest craft store and pick up supplies to start knitting. A basic pair of knitting needles may cost you as little as $4. Yarn ranges in price depending on material, but acrylic is great to learn on and won't set you back more than a couple dollars. You can find many tutorials and patterns online for free.

The same goes with many other crafts. Here's a tip: Before driving to the store to pick up supplies, check online to see if there are any coupons. Many chains, like Michael's and A.C. Moore offer regular coupons for 40% off.

16. Play Games

Like playing games? Grab your chess board or deck of cards from the closet and enjoy with a friend. It's that simple. If you cannot find someone to play with you, consider heading online to a site like Addicting Games, where you can engage in either solo or multiplayer games for free.

17. Go Hiking

The great outdoors is calling you. Slip on some sturdy shoes and go for a hike. This is another one of those hobbies that you can do with others in a club (just search your area calendar). The American Hiking Society has all sorts of information that can help you get started — including volunteer opportunities that may land you free vacations with like-minded naturalists.

18. Go Camping

Camping is a wonderful way to take a trip somewhere beautiful without going broke. Spend some time planning now for a great summer adventure. Staying a week is only $160 at various National Parks throughout the United States.

19. Try Volunteering

You can also take up helping others for a new and rewarding hobby. Ask around to find good opportunities in your area. The church down the street from us has a soup kitchen every Friday, for example. Or check out sites like Volunteer Match to find open spots online.

20. Get Couponing

Why not save money in the new year with a couponing habit? All it has to cost you is the price of a Sunday paper. Or maybe less! There are also several apps that show price-matching and price comparisons at multiple stores at once. (See also: The 10 Best Couponing Apps)

21. Practice Yoga or Meditation

One of my goals for the new year is to center myself. I run on a very nervous energy level. Yoga and meditation can help with that. Both involve deep breathing. And both are easy and free to begin at home. Yoga with Adriene is my favorite spot to find a variety of calming moves for zero dollars. The UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center has a good number of free guided meditations and visualization exercises.

22. Become a History Buff

I've become obsessed with Broadway's Hamilton. Not just the musical, either. I've spent hours researching George Washington and the other founding fathers. The best part? I can do all this sleuthing around for free. Think of a historical figure, a period of time, or issue that interests you. Then search the Internet or your local library to find out more.

For a more passive immersion, consider browsing documentaries on Netflix or Hulu and making a gigantic queue of the ones that interest you. Or check out Drunk History, also on Hulu.

23. Read More Books

Reading is free activity — at least if you have a library card — but it takes motivation. Consider writing out a list of a book to read each month to keep yourself in motion. You may even try starting a theme-based book club with your friends. Set a time to meet, write up the reading list, and read. Then rotate who hosts the book discussion each month (and be sure to involve lots of tasty treats and good beverages).

24. Try Some Upcycling DIY Projects

Click over to Pinterest and find an unlimited number of do-it-yourself projects you can finish by upcycling your old stuff. We have a great list of 18 awesome, practically free upcycled craft projects to get you inspired.

25. Learn a New Language

A friend of mine spent last winter visiting her grandmother each week for Italian language lessons. She learned how to say hello, thank you, and a host of other practical phrases — and got some quality time with her beloved Nonna to boot.

If you don't know anyone who speaks another language, you can also check out sites like Duolingo to learn online for free.

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Beat Stress With These 28 Inexpensive Pastimes

Dr Penny Pincher — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 10:30:09 +0000

Expensive activities are stressful for me because paying for them weighs on my mind. I enjoy cheap or free pastimes, and even some pastimes that make money. Here are some inexpensive pastimes that you can enjoy to stay blissfully preoccupied without spending much money.

Exercise

The payoffs for regular exercise are immense, not least is the relaxation.

1. Bicycling

Bicycling can be a very inexpensive hobby. I picked up a cheap used bike for $28, rode it for five years, and then sold it for $35! In addition to a bike, there are a few other things you’ll need to get started: a bike helmet and a bike lock to keep yourself and your bike safe. If you buy an older bike, you may need to change the tires and inner tubes, but you can do this yourself for only a few dollars. A cheap bike provides transportation, exercise, and entertainment.

2. Walking

Even if you don’t have any money at all, you can still enjoy walking. Walking is a convenient way to spend time outside and enjoy the seasons with no special equipment or planning required. When the weather is bad, I enjoy walking indoors in shopping malls.

3. Hiking

Sometimes I like to go to go hiking in a park or trail away from roads and sidewalks. Hiking takes a bit more effort than simply going for a walk near your home or workplace, but provides more opportunities to get close to nature. Most hiking trips are free, but I recently paid $10 to go for a five-hour hike among the redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument while visiting San Francisco. This was the most entertainment I have ever gotten for $10!

Cerebral Activities

After you've worked your muscles, challenge your noodle.

4. Reading

Reading can be free if you get books at a public library or find free classics to read on your electronic devices via sites such as Project Gutenberg. It seems like there is a nearly endless supply of new books coming along, plus the old classics to catch up on.

5. Writing

Writing has been a great pastime for me. It is exciting to see my work published, and I have even been able to make some money along the way from writing books, articles, and through advertising on my blog. If you are not ready to publish your work for the world to see, writing a journal for yourself or stories to share with your friends and family is a great way to get started writing.

6. Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles help keep your mind sharp and some people seem to really enjoy doing them. I have tried doing crossword puzzles a few times, but it is too much like doing a homework assignment for me to enjoy. Maybe I need to find some easier crossword puzzles to build up my skills.

7. Brain Games

I have tried brain games on my computer, such as the free trial version of Lumosity, and I sometimes play Math Blaster on my Android device. There are all kinds of free brain games that exercise your skills and help you stay sharp as you try to beat your high score. Some games even allow you to compare your scores with others.

8. Educational Videos

You no longer need to wait until Sunday evening for NOVA to come on PBS. You can get a wide selection of educational programs any time on Netflix ($8 per month) or YouTube (free). I like to find TED Talks on YouTube to find interesting perspectives on everything from physics to social sciences.

9. Online Courses

There are all kinds of online courses you can take for free, including subjects such as computer programming, statistics, and science. Here are some places to check for online courses that interest you:

10. Jigsaw Puzzles

Some people get excited about doing jigsaw puzzles and like to receive them as gifts. Jigsaw puzzles can provide many hours of entertainment for not much money, and you do get a sense of satisfaction — or relief — when the puzzle is complete. You can pick up used jigsaw puzzles at garage sales for a dollar or two that provide hours of entertainment, but you might find out that there are missing pieces.

11. Ancestry Research/Genealogy

You can make a serious hobby out of researching your ancestry. It is easier than ever to research family history and find links to your family’s past. You can get a long way without spending much money and produce research on your family history that will be invaluable to future generations.

12. Learn a Foreign Language

When you learn a foreign language, you learn more than just a bunch of foreign words. You learn about another culture and open up opportunities to meet and learn about new people.

Nature/Outdoor Enjoyment

When you tire of puzzles and brain games, re-connect with nature.

13. Camping

Camping can be a great way to get away and see things from a fresh perspective. You can find places to camp for free, but even if you pay to stay in a campground, you can find places to pitch a tent for around $20 per night.

14. Fishing

Basic fishing equipment doesn’t cost a lot of money. You can get an inexpensive rod and reel good enough to catch your dinner for around $25. I still have a lot of the same fishing tackle I used when I was growing up. The price of a seasonal fishing license varies by location. I paid about $20 and was able to go fishing whenever I wanted all summer.

15. Bird-watching

It is hard not to watch the birds at my house. I have seen orioles, blue jays, cardinals, robins, hummingbirds, geese, and even bald eagles. I put out bird feeders to attract birds near my house for easy observation. Even if you don’t put out bird feeders, you can probably find interesting birds to watch and enjoy. Binoculars are useful to be able to observe birds high in trees or too far away to see easily.

Food-Related

While you don't want to use food as a coping tool, lots of the activities around food prep are satisfying and relaxing.

16. Gardening

You get to enjoy planning your garden, watching it grow, and then harvest lots of free vegetables. Gardening can be very inexpensive if you start your own seeds and make your own compost to use for fertilizer. Even if you don’t have a yard, you can grow vegetables in pots on a patio or deck. If you don’t want to rototill a traditional garden, you can grow vegetables in straw bales or build raised beds for easy access.

17. Cooking

Cooking is a great pastime since it reduces the probability that you will spend money on expensive restaurant food. Watch some cooking shows or videos to learn cooking techniques and get ideas for recipes you want to try out. You can get started cooking with only a few pans and utensils.

18. Canning Food

If you have a successful garden, you’ll need to do something with all of those vegetables. The first thing I remember canning was salsa we made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro we grew in the garden. It was messy and a lot of work, but it was fun to make those cans of salsa to save for winter and to give to friends. If you have a freezer, you can use an inexpensive vacuum sealer to pull the air out of plastic bags and seal up your produce to freeze without getting freezer burned.

19. Grilling

You can start grilling with a $20 charcoal grill. If $20 is too much for you, you can even make a grill for free! My kids build a kebab pit for free using concrete blocks they found and it works great. I also have a gas grill which is more expensive, but very convenient. Grilling outside is one of my favorite activities, followed closely by eating the food that I grill.

Creative Activities

Nothing is as satisfying as zoning out while making something. The doing is its own reward — but you'll also be rewarded with some of your own handiwork.

20. Wood shop

One of my favorite pastimes is working in my wood shop. I like to repair things, build small projects, and just spend time in my shop organizing my tools and thinking. A wood shop does not need to be expensive. I built one of my workbenches from a kit and others using recycled kitchen cabinets and countertops. Many of my tools were used tools that people gave me.

21. Photography

You can take surprisingly good photos with a cellphone or cheap digital camera, especially in outdoor lighting. A quality digital SLR camera with a zoom lens runs around $300 and will allow you to take your photography to the next level, providing more control over the camera settings.

22. Musical Instruments

You can pick up cheap used musical instruments on Craigslist or at consignment or pawnshops. Of course, buying the instrument is the easy part — learning to play it well takes work and practice.

23. Sewing

With a sewing machine, fabric, and a pattern, you can make your own clothes. Collecting bargain fabrics is part of the fun of sewing.

Social Activities

It's a fact of life that other people can be the cause of so much stress. It's also a fact of life that other people are often the cure.

24. Volunteer Work

There are lots of opportunities available to volunteer some of your time working for a good cause. Volunteering can be a good way to do something you enjoy and meet other people with similar interests. Some ideas for volunteering: animal shelter, food pantry, political campaign, church organizations.

25. Visiting

If you get bored hanging around your own house, try going to someone else's house! Visiting friends or family is a cheap way to get out of the house and do something different for a change of pace. Having people come over to visit at your place can inspire you to get cleaning and projects done.

26. Playing Cards

Playing cards is a classic cheap pastime, as long as you aren’t placing bets. Poker, bridge, and euchre are some popular card games that allow you to play competitively with others.

Cheap Entertainment

Finally, it's okay to be a couch potato from time to time.

27. Sports Fan

Some people spend a lot as sports fans, paying big money for tickets to games and buying team jerseys and other paraphernalia. But being a sports fan doesn’t have to be expensive. I don’t subscribe to any TV service, but I can find many of my Iowa Hawkeye football games for free, either on over-the-air TV or on radio broadcasts. Sometimes I can find a free video stream of the game on the Internet.

28. News Junkie

I listen to National Public Radio (NPR) for about an hour every day to keep up on news and world events. When I miss my chance to listen to the news for some reason, I feel out of touch and usually end up going on the Internet to check news stories I am following. Keeping up with the news is a cheap pastime and makes it easy to have an intelligent conversation with anyone you meet.

What are your favorite cheap pastimes?

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This article is from Dr Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Fun Hobbies You Can Take Up for Free

Ashley Marcin — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:00:14 +0000

In the new year, many of us choose to take up new hobbies to fill our free time and extend our skills. I recently looked into taking a pottery class, for example, but the $600 price tag sent me scrambling elsewhere to find some less expensive fun. Sure, a good number of fulfilling activities cost a pretty penny, but there are plenty of others you can start for free.

1. Exercise

Forget gym memberships. All you need for a great workout is yourself (and maybe a pair of shoes). You can walk or jog around your neighborhood. The web has a wealth of free workouts you can perform in your living room. Also investigate the gyms and fitness clubs around you to see if they run free weeks or classes you can try before you buy.

2. Read

All you need to become a frugal bookworm is a card to your local library. Even if your local stacks don't hold all the books you want to read, you can usually request to get most anything you want through interlibrary loans. So, sign up for Goodreads, research some books in whatever genre appeals to you, make a list, and slip into your reading glasses.

3. Write

If you'd rather write than read, look around the web for different writing challenges that "push your boundaries" and allow you to explore different topics and styles. You might also start a blog to share your words with the world (or keep it private, or for friends-only). Many regions also have writers' groups that allow you to meet up with like-minded people and get feedback on your work. Check your library, bookstore, or community calendar for details.

4. Play an Instrument

Venture into your attic and find your trumpet from high school marching band. Stop singing only in the confines of your car. There are a number of community groups — bands, orchestras, choruses, and other ensembles — that allow you to re-learn your instrument and perform in concerts. I was a member of a local philharmonic for years, and I loved having an excuse to play my violin after a 10-year hiatus.

5. Act

The same goes with community theater. Audition for lead roles or hang out with the extras in the chorus. Whatever part you play, acting allows you to meet new people, explore your creative side, and just have a lot of fun. You don't even need experience! Just search "community theater" and the name of the city where you live to find groups near you.

6. Learn a Language

Have you ever wanted to speak another language? I mean, beyond those few years of Italian you were required to take to graduate college? I sure have. A few years ago I taught myself French using an app and some free online language resources, and I was surprised how much fun it was (and useful, too!).

7. Listen to Podcast

Move over, TV and books, I've become seriously obsessed with podcasts since Sarah Koenig's Serial came out. Now I've moved on to This American Life and other free radio programs and podcasts I can stream or download. I love how these programs teach me things about myself and the world around me. I can listen to them while I lay in bed or go for a jog and change subjects to suit my mood.

8. Volunteer

Doing good feels good and is certainly a thoughtful hobby to take up and enjoy. You can serve food at your local soup kitchen, help build houses, or visit the elderly. The need is great and the opportunities are endless. To find volunteering gigs near you, try sites like VolunteerMatch that sort by location and interest.

9. Explore

Take a hike — literally. Pack yourself a lunch and head out on a local trail. A friend of mine in the Adirondacks tries to reach the summit of a new mountain every couple weeks. You can also try geocaching, which allows you to hunt for different objects or locations using GPS coordinates.

10. Begin Again

Then there are those hobbies of years past — you have all the stuff sitting in a box somewhere. For me, it's knitting. I have countless skeins of yarn and a few different sizes of needles, assorted books, and other supplies. All I need to do is use what I have and pick up where I left off. For you, this might mean dusting off a chess set, unearthing oil paints, or rolling out that old yoga mat.

Do you pursue and free or frugal hobbies? What do you do?

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

25 Fun, Frugal Things to Do Tonight Besides Watch TV

Kentin Waits — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 15:00:20 +0000

Unless you're watching the home shopping network with a rapid eye for deals, spending night after night in front of the TV ain't saving you any money in a proactive way. So maybe it's time for a little idea inspiration.

Here are 25 frugal things you can do instead of watching TV tonight.

1. Go Thrift Shopping

Who needs more reasons to love thrift shopping? Thrifting can be a real money saver and wildly entertaining. Some shops stay open till 9:00 p.m., so make thrifting part of your prime time lineup.

2. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Even if you're secure in your job, be prepared for opportunities that come your way by having an updated resume at-the-ready. LinkedIn is how you present your professional image publically, so take a few minutes to make sure it's top-notch.

3. Set Some Savings Goals

Solo or with your significant other, sit down and decide exactly what you're saving for. What specific financial goals would you like to achieve in the next year? In the next five? By setting the right goals, saving isn't just easier — it's a lot more fun.

4. Mend Some Clothing

Channel your inner Olivia Walton and tighten up loose shirt buttons, repair split seams, or darn a pair of socks. It takes only moments and saves buying new.

5. Review Your 401(k) or IRA Fund Performances

Take some time to review those prospectuses and quarterly statements from your 401(k) or IRA fund administrator. Are you satisfied with the results, or is it time to see if you can achieve better results? If you're nearing retirement, is the moment right to shift to more conservative funds?

6. Plan Your Holiday Shopping List

Avoid maddening crowds and purchase-panic by getting a head start on holiday shopping. Determine what you'll need and leisurely start looking for deals on gifts, supplies, and essentials now.

7. Make Tomorrow's Lunch

Save money, eat healthier, and keep your mornings sane by pre-making tomorrow's lunches for work and school.

8. Clean Your Coffeemaker

I treat my automatic coffeemaker with the respect it deserves, because if it goes on the fritz, I go on the fritz. Extend the life of your true blue brewer by cleaning it regularly with distilled white vinegar and water.

9. Organize Your Finances

Drowning in a sea of receipts, bank statements, and miscellaneous documents? Resolve to organize your financial paperwork by creating a simple system that you can easily follow.

10. Flip Your Mattress

Save money on a new mattress by extending the life of the one you have. Rotate and then flip your mattress every three or four months; rotate the box spring or foundation every six.

11. Perform Quick and Easy Auto Maintenance

Checking tire pressure and fluid levels regularly is a relatively painless way to keep your car running smooth. To keep it gleaming, skip the TV and give your ride a quick wash and wax.

12. Do a Digital Deep Clean

Defragment Windows, update your computer's anti-virus software, and delete old files that take up large amounts of space. While you're at it, clean the keyboard, screen, and exterior with the appropriate products to keep things working well and looking good.

13. Play a Board Game

Go retro by grabbing a game that doesn't have an LCD display. Monopoly, Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and Cranium all have their own lessons to teach and are refreshingly low tech. Or, skip buying a game by playing charades.

14. Make a DIY Scarf Organizer

Ladies, does your scarf collection look like a psychedelic nest of confusion? Take some time one night this week and make a DIY scarf organizer using a plastic clothes hanger, plastic shower curtain rings, and decorative ribbon. It's simple and it works!

15. Send a Handwritten Note

Resurrect the art of the hand-written note and make someone's day. Nothing says "I'm thinking of you" like putting pen to paper "just because."

16. Plant a Window Sill Herb Garden

If you don't have the yard space for a full-fledged vegetable garden, plant a mini herb garden on your window sill. Fresh and free herbs taste better.

17. Replace the AC Filter

Air conditioner maintenance helps your central air system or window unit work better and use less energy. Clean or replace filters periodically and keep condenser coils dust-free.

18. Clean One Drawer or Closet

Cutting clutter is a marathon, not a sprint. Start slowly and accomplish one modest goal per evening or per week. Clean a drawer, closet, tote, or kitchen cabinet.

19. Take a Nap

That's right, get some shut-eye. There are few less expensive and more restorative things you can do to take care of yourself.

20. Go for a Walk

Walking outside is relaxing, social, healthy… and exactly what your loyal dog is waiting for. Flip off the TV, grab the whole family, and hit the bricks.

21. Pre-Cut Some Veggies

Convenience wins. Encourage wild and unregulated veggie consumption by pre-cutting them and storing in air-tight containers. Chop lettuce for salads, slice cucumbers, and peel carrots to promote free-range grazing in your household.

22. Clean and Organize Your Wallet or Purse

Does your purse feel like a lead weight? Is your wallet more of an in-pocket filing cabinet? Clean both and save money by actually finding some among the chaos.

23. Prepare a Back-to-School List

Keep your ear to the ground. The collective groan of millions of kids will be echoing across the land in just a few shorts weeks. Set down with your little learners, figure out what they'll need, and scout for back-to-school bargains now.

24. Recondition your Shoes

A little mink oil, polish, and buffing goes a long way in extending the life your favorite kicks. It just takes a few minutes per pair and you'll feel much more dapper.

25. Clutter-Bust with the Kids

Get the kids involved in de-cluttering. Have them choose a certain number of toys or clothes they no longer use or want. Teach them the lesson of giving to the less fortunate and control toy clutter at the same time!

There are countless others things to do instead of staring at the TV (…assuming you haven't eroded your ability to count by too many hours spent staring at the TV!). Brainstorm your own list tonight by imagining the frugal and productive fun you could have if your TV suddenly bit the dust. Then, hit it with a hammer (just kidding) and start doing!

What do you like to do instead of watching TV? Share your ideas with our readers in comments!

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Kill Boredom With These 34 Fun and Productive Projects

Kate Luther — Wed, 28 May 2014 08:48:26 +0000

With so many outlets for entertainment, you'd think that we'd never, ever get bored. Yet, there are still times that I find myself wandering around the house, simply looking for something to do and my usual go-to activities just aren't doing it for me. (See also: 50 Fun Things to do When You're Stuck Inside)

If you suffer from the same lack of enthusiasm, then this post is for you. Here are 34 tried and true ways to kill your boredom… or at least occupy your time until something better comes along.

1. Tackle Your To-Do List

You know you've got one — that mental list of little things that you plan to get around to someday. Well, today's that day. Call your Aunt Martha, take the comforter to the dry cleaners, and check the oil in your car and the air in your bicycle tires.

2. Clean Out the Garage

Okay, yes, I realize this is probably more than a one-day project, but imagine how great you'll feel when it's all done. Use plastic tubs to store your things and mark each tub or box prominently for easy identification. Then next time you need to dig out holiday decorations or find your old school yearbooks, you'll know exactly where to look.

3. Take a Nap

If you're already napping quite a bit, then skip this suggestion… it's time to do something else. But otherwise, feel free to snooze for a bit. The world would be a much better place if we all had a mid-afternoon nap and snack every day.

4. Cook Something New

No, I don't mean a different kind of Hamburger Helper. I mean find a recipe that requires some effort, preferably something that's authentically not in your wheelhouse and could be called "art" with the right garnish. Stretch your taste buds. You might find you like it.

5. Write a Letter to Your Congressperson

According to all the political pundits, Congress bases its actions on what they hear from the People. I don't know if that's true, but if the statistics are to be believed, some 92% of us are unhappy with their performance. That's a lot of feedback that Congress apparently hasn't heard yet. So, maybe it's time to speak your mind.

6. Take Up a Cause

Back in the 80's, before Internet and cell phones and emails, I had the privilege of working with a wonderful non-profit group devoted to fighting pound seizure. We passed out flyers, we marched at City Hall… it was liberating. If you're suffering from boredom, maybe you just need something to feel passionate about.

7. Volunteer

I've mentioned this one before, but if you find that you're frequently bored, you may need a solution that's more long-term, and volunteering is a great way to spend your free time. Check out VolunteerMatch.org to find an opportunity that's right for you.

8. Educate Yourself

Go back to school or try one of the many online or self-study options. Many are even free, so there's no excuse for not broadening your horizons. (See also: Learning Without the High cost of Higher Ed)

9. Paint a Room

Forget the neutral colors, and think blues and greens with splashes of yellow or go bold with black, white, and red. Or, if you're feeling really adventurous, try some of these fun painting ideas from Remodelaholic.

10. Change Your Hair Color

This may be more of a girl thing, but when I was in highschool, I sported every hair color that Revlon sold at least twice. And while I'm not quite as quick to do those drastic changes now, it's still fun to try something new every now and then. And it's amazing how different you feel when you change the shade of your mane.

11. Replace Your Shelf Paper

Shelf paper is one of those things that no one thinks about until they open the cabinet door and see the shabby remnants of what was installed 10 years ago. So, rip out that old stuff and get something new. It's relatively cheap, and it will definitely get you focused on something other than being bored.

12. Clean Out Your Closet

When I was a kid, my go-to move for cleaning my room was to shove anything that didn't have a designated "place" into the closet or under the bed. And I'm sad to say, not much has changed over the years. My closet is a catch-all for a variety of things, including linens, mementos from the kids, my cheerleading megaphone, and my Barbie collection. Yes, there are clothes and shoes in there as well. On the bright side however, cleaning it out almost always results in finding things I had forgotten about, so if your closet resembles mine, you might find a few forgotten treasures too!

13. Organize Your Junk Drawer

Speaking of catch-all's, we all have at least one drawer in the house that doesn't have a purpose other than to store all the little "stuff" we don't know what to do with. You don't have to get rid of the junk drawer altogether, but organizing it will at least make it easier to find the thumbtacks and the nail file the next time you need them.

14. Rearrange Your Furniture

Want a change in your decor, but can't really afford the expense right now? Switch it up. Move your couch there, the recliner over here and viola! It's like a whole new room.

15. Connect With Someone From Your Past

I'm one of those people who has all my old friends on Facebook, but beyond the friendly "Like" now and then, we rarely ever connect. And that's a shame. So, let's not be "those people." Make an effort to reconnect with old friends from the past and see if that friendship can be rekindled. Worst case scenario, you'll find you have nothing in common. But who knows? You might find someone new to help you kill your boredom.

16. Research Your Family Tree

I've mentioned before about my love affair with genealogy, but I'm going to mention it again here because it's a fantastic way to kill time. You know how you start surfing the web with one topic in mind and end up — some 20 sites later — on something completely different? Genealogy is just like that, only instead of websites, you're finding your ancestors.

17. Clean Out Your Inbox

I've had the same email address for more than 10 years now, and I'm not exaggerating when I say I get at least 100 emails a day, most of which are junk. Needless to say, it's easy for my inbox to get out of hand. If you can say the same, maybe now is a good time to regain control. Weed out the junk, and then move the rest — either into folders or the trash — until your inbox is empty. You'll be amazed at how freeing an empty inbox can be.

18. Host Your Own Movie Marathon

Pick some of your favs — the "Stars Wars" and "Star Trek" sagas are obvious choices, but you could also choose a theme, as in all chick-flicks, all sci-fi films, or all Tom Hanks movies ("Joe Versus the Volcano" anyone?). Invite your friends, buy some snacks (popcorn is a must!), and settle in.

19. Get a Massage

If you've had one, then this needs no explanation. If you haven't, then get one and you'll understand why.

20. Meditate

I know, I know. You're just not sold on the whole "Mind-Body-Spirit" thing. But it's not like you're doing anything right now anyway, so what have you got to lose?

21. Exercise

For the past two weeks, I've been doing yoga faithfully every morning and I have to say, I can seriously feel a difference. But if yoga isn't your thing and you're not jumping up and down at the thought of lifting weights, then try something else. Go for a walk, learn how to tango, or wash your car. As long as you're moving and your heart rate is up, it counts.

22. Have Sex

Well, we were talking about moving and elevated heart rate, so it seems only fitting that we include this suggestion here. And really, can you think of a better way to occupy your free time?

23. Plant a Garden

You'd be amazed at how much better your food tastes when it's fresh. And it's good for your wallet, too.

24. Start Your Own Blog

Are you an expert on something? Do you know how to sew or paint or fish? Maybe you're an avid reader or you homeschool your kids or you're just the #1 Fan of insert-your-favorite-celebrity-or-TV-show here. Whatever your passion, whatever your hobby, you can blog about it — and connect with like-minded others in the process.

25. Research a New Career

Have you always dreamed of being a doctor? Going to law school or becoming a master chef? Or maybe you'd just like to work in retail instead of insurance, or start your own business for that matter. Boredom means you have time to spare and you can use that time to chart a path to a rewarding new career.

26. Update Your Resume

If it's been a while since you've dusted off your resume, use this opportunity of "nothing to do" to get it updated. You'll be one step closer to applying for that great new job you're researching.

27. Revamp Your Budget

Ever wonder where all your money goes? Now's a good time to find out.

28. Update Your Financial Profile

Are you on track for retirement? Will you have enough to pay for your children's college or that vacation you want to take next year? Do you know your net worth? Getting answers to these questions makes it much easier to plan for your future.

29. Organize Your Important Papers

If something were to happen to you, would your family know how to handle everything that needs handling? Getting all your important documents organized — life insurance policies, pensions, passwords, etc — is one of the first steps to building a solid estate plan. Use this down time to start building yours.

30. Scan All Your Photos

One of the great things about the "cloud" is that you can access it anywhere. And that means you can use it to store more than documents. Scan all your pictures and back them up to the cloud for safe keeping.

31. Create a Life Plan

Businesses have a plan, why not you? Think about where you want to go, how you want to get there, and then formulate a plan for making it happen. Once you have a clear path, maybe you won't have time to feel bored.

32. Scrub Your Baseboards

Your closets are cleaned out, your garage is organized, and your cabinets have spiffy new shelf paper. But don't forget those baseboards. They can make even the cleanest house look not-so-clean. And trust me when I tell you, you'll be too tired to care about being bored when you're done.

33. Try a New Hobby

You've always wanted to sign up for co-ed softball or try your hand at painting or learn how to play tennis. There's no time like the present, especially since you have plenty of free time.

34. Bake

There's something therapeutic about baking something from scratch. Learn how to use fondant or make the perfect pie crust.

Now, it's your turn… how do you cure boredom?

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This article is from Kate Luther of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 35 Best Ways to Spend Your Free Time (Frugally)

Kate Luther — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 02:45:22 +0000

Wise Bread readers are masters at saving more and spending less. You know how to shop smart, how to stretch a budget, and how to find the best deals on just about anything.

But what about when you want to cut loose and relax?

Life, after all, is about balance and having some hobbies is a key component of living a happy, healthy life. If only those hobbies weren't so expensive.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to stay true to your frugal principles and still have a good time in the process. Here are 35 ways to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. (See also: 20 Free Ways to Relieve Stress)

1. Reading

Too obvious? Maybe, but it's cheap, cheap, cheap, and if you enjoy doing it, you'll never run out of new material. Find an endless supply of stuff to read on the Internet, pick up used books at garage sales and thrift stores, or take advantage of your free library card and gain access to everything from the old classics to the latest best-sellers.

2. Journaling/Writing

Writing offers a number of benefits, not the least of which is learning to write better by constructing your thoughts on paper. Work through your issues by journaling or leave something memorable for your descendants by writing your memoirs. If you're not yet ready to put your life on paper, try writing about someone else's life instead, or write about a cause or event that you think is important.

Or just make the whole thing up. One of the great things about writing fiction is that you have control over how the story develops.

3. Writing Poetry

There is an art to making words rhyme,

A rhythm that requires those words to keep time,

But master it and you will see,

There's nothing quite so creative as poetry.

Where to start? Turco's The New Book of Forms and Hollander's Rhyme's Reason are classic introductions to English rhyme and verse, with clear explanations and plenty of examples.

4. Performing Slam Poetry

If traditional rhyme isn't your thing, consider slam poetry instead. Meant to be spoken, slam poetry is much more visceral in content, often used as a means to vent about political issues, humanitarian injustices, and personal milestones. It's also much more flexible when it comes to style and syntax. You can use rhyme if you want, but it's not required; in fact, the only real "requirements" of slam poetry is that it's passionate, and if you're going to compete, your poem must be three minutes or under.

5. Sewing

When I was in elementary school, my mother made matching outfits for me and my best friend. They featured faux suede vests and skirts with cream-colored satin shirts, and since this was the '70s, we were hot stuff in those outfits to say the least.

I never really got into sewing after a dress-debacle in my 8th grade Home-Ec class, but now, with a daughter of my own, I've pulled out mom's sewing machine, and I'm slowly but surely learning how to make my own garments. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. Sewing is a wonderfully creative outlet and the perfect way to fashion a custom wardrobe for a fraction of what you'd spend buying off the racks. Plus — and this is my goal — if you get really good at working with patterns, you can start working on your own designs. Move over, Jaclyn Smith!

6. Walking

Despite the obvious cardiovascular benefits, walking is a great way to clear your head, let off some steam, and just enjoy the outdoors. You can walk the trail at your local park or just walk your neighborhood after dinner. The benefits are the same, and it's free. (See also: Surprising Benefits of a 10-Minute Walk)

7. Gardening

When we moved out of the city some seven-plus years ago, I wanted to fully experience the whole "country-lifestyle," so I promptly tilled up an area for a small garden. It was one of the best things I've ever done. Not only do you get to commune with nature, but if you grow edibles, you can cut down your grocery bill to boot. And just let me say, there's nothing like homegrown tomatoes. Plus, you don't need lots of space to enjoy this hobby — container gardening works well even in the smallest of spaces — and if you grow heirloom plants and harvest your seeds, you'll only have to buy your starter plants once.

8. Bird-Watching

When we moved to said country home, we noticed a mud nest on our front porch. Hubby wanted to tear it down — and I wanted to know what lived in it. As it turns out, that nest belonged to a pair of Purple Martins, birds known for eating their weight in mosquitoes. And because they come back every spring, I've never had to buy a can of repellant. The moral of this story? Learning more about the birds in your backyard might be worth your time.

9. Painting

Years ago, my girlfriends and I decided to try our hand at painting. We began with oils, which I loved as a medium, but they were a little pricey and a pain to clean up. Then I discovered acrylics. Water soluble and much, much cheaper, they have been my go-to medium ever since. You can find canvases and brushes — also inexpensive — at most craft stores, and there's an endless supply of how-tos on the web.

10. Drawing

If painting isn't your thing, try drawing. Sketchbooks are relatively cheap and easy to tote, so you can take your hobby with you wherever you go. And like painting, you can self-teach using books, online instruction, and lots of practice.

11. Cooking

Forget about prepackaged mixes and store-bought cans — there's something about cooking and baking from scratch that feels almost spiritual. Maybe it's the creative aspect of pulling it all together, tasting and adjusting along the way to be sure your recipe is just right. Maybe it's the satisfaction of seeing your creation turn out well, a manifestation of all the love and intention that went into making it. Maybe it's the presentation, with all the little drizzles and sprinkles that turn your dish into art.

Or maybe it's just that it tastes better.

Depending upon what you have in your cabinets, you may need to purchase certain spices and staples, but I've found that it's not too hard to keep a well-stocked kitchen, and it's definitely cheaper than eating out. Plus, it's nice to get a craving for something and know that I have the ingredients to make it, meaning fewer spontaneous trips to the grocery store.

Where to start? Pick a cuisine or style you like, and decide to master its ingredients and recipes. (See also: 10 Recipes for Kitchen Newbies)

12. Genealogy

I can't tell you what got me started in genealogy. But I can tell you that once I started digging, I was forever hooked. There's something absolutely fascinating about tracing your past, learning where you came from, and even (occasionally) stumbling upon photos and stories of ancestors you never met. I have an ancestor who was a Revolutionary War Patriot, for example, and there's a memorial built in his honor in his hometown.

I have another ancestor who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth and he, too, is remembered in a memorial, this one placed in an Abbey in Somerset.

Not all of my ancestors have notable stories, of course, but following their trail is interesting nonetheless. You can splurge for an Ancestry.com membership or you can begin by exploring the free genealogy websites online and the genealogy section at your local library.

13. Become an Expert

When I discovered that I had an ancestor with ties to Queen Elizabeth, I couldn't help but learn more about that particular era. Between the assassination attempts on the Queen and all the betrayal and beheadings during her father's (King Henry VIII) reign, there's more than enough information to keep my interest piqued. And in the process, I've become a bit of an expert on this topic.

Now, think about something that interests you. Are you a history buff? Fascinated by science? Passionate about climate change? Dig in deeper and learn everything you can. In a world where we're bombarded with information 24/7, it's a nice change of pace to cover more than just a few fleeting details. (See also: 11 Ways to Learn Something New)

14. Jewelry-Making

If you've got kids, then you've probably seen the rubber-band bracelets that are all the rage. My daughter loves making them, and has even branched out to woven friendship bracelets using string and cord. Helping her figure out new techniques and patterns reminded me of how much fun those smaller craft projects could be and while the rubber-band variation isn't really my thing, wire jewelry offers some great possibilities.

There are literally hundreds of websites where you can get ideas and inspiration, along with step-by-step tutorials to walk you through a complete project. You can find wire at most craft stores, but you'll pay less if you order from some of the jewelry-supply websites, such as Fire Mountain Gems. Beads can be found at most of these sites as well, or you can order them in bulk from Amazon.

And if you find that you're especially good at jewelry making, you can sell your stuff on Etsy for extra cash. (See also: 5 Ways to Launch a Small Business With Etsy)

15. Guitar

Of all the musical instruments you could play, the guitar is probably the most practical — easy to take with you, and if you buy it used, you can get one relatively cheap.

There's also plenty of free lessons to be had. Justin Guitar and GuitarLessons both offer free instruction as do many other websites. Or, you can just head over to YouTube — you'll find both generic lessons as well as instructions for specific songs, meaning you can finally learn how to play that 80s tune that you love so much.

16. Card Tricks

Who hasn't seen a card trick and wondered, "How did they do that?" Well, here's your chance to find out! The beauty of learning card tricks compared to other types of magic is that you can buy a deck of cards for a dollar — one dollar, and you have everything you need to start learning new tricks.

Granted, some are more complex than others, but many are relatively easy and if you add a fancy shuffle, you'll look like a pro when you perform your trick.

Cards not your thing, or a dollar to high a price to pay? How about coin tricks?

17. Play Cards

Want to stretch that dollar even further? Learn to play Texas Hold 'Em or Five Card Draw or Bridge for that matter. Playing cards is a fun and easy way to relax and unwind, and it's also a great option when the Internet mysteriously goes down and you decide to reinvent family time.

18. Star-Gazing

There is something magical about looking out at the night sky, even if you don't have a telescope. Learn to spot the different constellations with one of the many astronomy apps available (I use Star Chart — it's free!) and subscribe to some of the astronomy websites (such as Astronomy Magazine and Sky and Telescope) to learn more about space and upcoming celestial events.

19. Fishing

You'll need a place to fish obviously — a lake or a stocked pond, for example — but that's about the biggest challenge you'll find with this hobby. Fishing requires patience, but it can also be a great way to get outside and clear your head. It's also a great way to take care of dinner.

20. Photography

No need to spend lots of money on expensive cameras; many smartphones can now take some really nice pictures and you can always upgrade later. If you've got an eye for photography, you can sell your images on sites like iStockphoto and make a few extra bucks in the process. (See also: Awesome Money-Making Hobbies)

21. Chess

You can get a cheap chess board at Walmart, or you can play online for free (plus pick up tips and strategies) at Chess.com. In addition to being a great way to challenge yourself, chess is actually good for you. It exercises both sides of the brain, can help prevent diseases like dementia, and has even been shown to raise IQ.

22. Whittling

All you need is a knife and a piece of soft wood; the rest is nothing but your own creativity. There are plenty of tutorials online to get you started, and there are even some whittling magazines out there as well.

23. Puzzles

Puzzles are cheap. Puzzles are easy to find. And depending upon your level of patience, puzzles can be a wonderful way to spend a quiet evening at home. Don't care for the jigsaw variety? Then try crossword puzzles or Sudoku — both help improve concentration, memory, and critical thinking.

24. Coding

Not everyone welcomes the idea of deciphering code, but for those that do, there are plenty of free resources to keep you busy. Code Academy offers free lessons in several scripts and languages, including PHP, Ruby, HTML, and Java. Become proficient, and you can charge for your skills on sites like Upwork.

25. Dancing

Besides being a wonderful form of exercise, dancing is intensely expressive, allowing you release your tension while you work up a sweat. Learn specific dance styles, such as Salsa, Latin, or Hip Hop on YouTube or at sites like LearntoDance and The Dance Store Online, or just turn on your radio and go freestyle.

26. Scrapbooking

If you buy all the ready-made scrapbooking kits, you can easily spend a small fortune. So don't do that. Instead, make your own scrapbooking accents with cheaper alternatives such as construction paper, coloring book pages, free printables off the Internet, and pictures cut out of magazines.

27. Pinterest

I've just recently started using Pinterest, but I can definitely see the appeal. You create "boards" devoted to whatever topics you choose and then "pin" related items that you find on the Internet. Think of it as digital collecting, and you're on the right track. For me, it's like window shopping online — I have a board for shoes, one for recipes, one for wire jewelry, another for astronomy pics, and yet another for gardening ideas. It's a free and fun way to share the stuff you find online and follow others who share your interests.

28. Raise Chickens

I currently have eight chickens — four that are full-grown and keep me well stocked with fresh eggs, and four new chicks, about three weeks old and currently living in a tub in my dining room until they're big enough to live outside.

Getting chickens was one of the first things I did when we moved out of the city, and I have to tell you, I am in love. Chickens are easy to keep, funny to watch, and if you get the right breeds, sociable. My girls follow me around the yard, they keep the grasshoppers under control, and as I said, they keep me and my neighbors well stocked in eggs. If you decide to breed, you can sell your chicks to feed stores or direct to the public for $2 to $3 apiece. (See also: Raising Backyard Chickens)

29. Homesteading

Homesteading is actually a broad term that covers a variety of activities and practices, all devoted to living self-sufficiently. Canning falls under homesteading for example, as does making your own wine and cheese. You don't have to go completely off the grid, but if making your own jerky sounds appealing, or if you've often thought about keeping bees, crafting elixirs, growing your own crops, or just "going green," homesteading might be for you. And with the right planning and preparation, even a little homesteading can be very friendly to your pocketbook.

30. Papier Mache

Not only is this hobby extremely creative, it's also a great way to recycle all that junk mail and old newspapers. Visit Ultimate Paper Mache for recipes, tutorials, and inspiration.

31. Origami

The art of paper folding, origami, dates back to 17th Century Japan. It uses a series of folds to create sculptures out of flat pieces of paper, no glue or cutting allowed.

32. Whistling

Yes, whistling. I can whistle one note — one sad, little note that's barely audible, but I love the idea of being able to whistle a tune, or even just whistle for my dog. Those that can do it typically take it for granted, while those that can't would love to learn. And as with everything else, practice makes perfect.

33. Singing

Everyone — everyone — likes to sing along to their favorite songs. So, why not improve that singing voice and share it with the rest of the world? There's plenty of singing tutorial videos on Youtube or you can take free lessons from Free-Singing-Lessons.

34. Make Recycled Art

We've all seen those news stories about people who made impressive works of art from what might otherwise be considered as trash or junk. The chicken made from egg shells for example, or the paintings created from floppy disks — the possibilities are endless, and what better way to recycle your trash?

35. Blogging

After you've mastered some of these other hobbies, write a blog about it! You can blog for free on sites like Blogger and Wordpress or, if you want something more custom, you can download the Wordpress platform for free and install on your own domain. Domain names can be had for about $10 a year and hosting for under $10 per month, depending on the package you choose.

Blogging about your hobbies and interests allows you to continue improving those writing skills and connect with others who share your interests.

Now it's your turn… what's your favorite frugal hobby?

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This article is from Kate Luther of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

50 Things You Can Do Today Instead of Going Shopping

Mikey Rox — Fri, 29 Nov 2013 11:24:07 +0000

Whether it's clothes, jewelry, electronics, or books, who doesn't like the thrill of buying something new? It feels like the perfect way to reward yourself. But if shopping is your favorite leisure activity, the financial repercussions can be disastrous. (See also: Guide to Cash Back Shopping)

Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do today instead of shopping. So if you're itching to hit the mall for a little retail therapy, here are 50 ways to take your mind off an unproductive spending spree.

1. Experiment With New Hairstyles

If you want to spruce up your look, check out hair tutorials online, and then practice a few styles on your hair.

2. Host a Home Spa Day

Why spend money when you can do your own manicure, pedicure, and facial? Invite a few friends over and make it a day in.

3. Clean Out Your Closet

Can't find anything in your closet? Take this opportunity to declutter and organize your clothes by season. And for clothes you no longer wear, start a donation pile. (See also: 14 Ways to Organize Your Closet)

4. Declutter a Drawer

Just about everyone has a junk drawer in the house. You know, the drawer full of ink pens that don't work and expired coupons. Clean it out!

5. Tackle Yardwork

Those leaves aren't going to rake themselves. Besides, after spending a few hours in the yard, you'll probably be too tired to shop.

6. Tidy Your Car

A good interior and exterior cleaning might bring back your car's original shine.

7. Start That Novel

You've been dreaming of writing a great novel for years. Stop dreaming and start writing.

8. Exercise

If you shop when you're feeling low, exercise is a good substitute. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that help improve mood and balance emotions.

9. Go to the Bookstore

A magazine, a cozy chair, and a cup of coffee — and you've got the perfect relaxing afternoon. (See also: Unique Gifts for Booklovers)

10. Call a Friend

If you've lost touch with a friend, there is no better time like the present to reconnect.

11. Organize Your Photos

Whether photos are on your phone, computer, or in a shoebox, spend the afternoon creating albums and organizing your vacation pics.

12. Bake Cookies or a Cake

There's a chance that you already have the ingredients in your kitchen and the Internet overflows with simple cookie recipes. (See also: Breakfast Cookies With Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans)

13. Plan Your Meals for the Week

Eliminate some of the weekday chaos with meal preparation on the weekends.

14. Watch a Movie

Pick a random movie that you haven't seen, or one that you weren't able to see in the theaters. Watch it!

15. Visit a Museum

Admission is relatively cheap, and it's the perfect way to broaden your horizons.

16. Play With Your Kids

Grab the Frisbee, a kite, or bikes and head to the park with your kids. You can't put a price on cheap family fun.

17. Revamp Your Budget

Balance your checkbook, evaluate your savings goals, or develop a plan for long-term financial success. (See also: How to Set Up a Financial 5-Year Plan)

18. Take a Nap

Catch up on your sleep and get ready for the work week.

19. Start Journaling

Grab a notebook and put your feelings on paper, and you might get to the root of your shopping obsession.

20. Listen to Music

Use this time to create a playlist or edit your existing playlists on your iPod or tablet.

21. Take a Drive

Drive through nice neighborhoods and pick out your dream house, or explore a country road.

22. Play a Board Game

Pull out the Monopoly and enjoy four to five hours of pure entertainment. (See also: Economy Based Games That Make You Think)

23. Plan Your Next Vacation

Narrow down your list of top destinations, and then go online and research those places.

24. Try a New Recipe

Take inventory of ingredients in your kitchen and then search online for recipes. Or visit Supercook.

25. Do Your Laundry

It can take hours to wash and fold all your clothes. This is an easy way to occupy your time until the stores close.

26. Hit the Social Networks

Check out your friend's photo albums, read news stories, and add your two cents.

27. Daydream

Don't think of this as a waste of time. The brain can only focus on one thing at a time, so it's a fun way to get your mind off shopping.

28. Make a Video of Yourself

Dance, sing, or just do something else interesting. You might become the next viral hit. It's easy to get started shooting video!

29. Take a Bath

Relax your muscles, clear your mind and do absolutely nothing.

30. Put Together a Scrapbook

A scrapbook can be fun way to preserve memories and tell the story of your life.

31. Watch a Documentary

Turn to PBS, the Discovery Channel, the History Channel, or another cable network, and you're sure to find at least one documentary of interest. Don't have cable? Watch them online for free!

32. Rearrange Your House

Simple adjustments can free up space and give the illusion of a bigger home. (See also: How to Live Large in a Small Space)

33. Make a Bucket List

What are the top 20 things you want to do before you die?

34. Watch Reruns of Your Favorite Sitcoms and Dramas

"Law and Order: SVU," "Friends," "Seinfeld," "The Cosby Show," or whatever you can find on the tube.

35. Do a Jigsaw Puzzle

This should keep you busy for at least the next eight hours.

36. Play Around With Your Outfits

Come up with new combinations and increase your wardrobe minus the shopping. (See also: Cheap Ways to Update a Wardrobe You Hate)

37. Improve Your Vocabulary

Pick up a dictionary or thesaurus (or visit vocabulary.com), and impress us with your word choice.

38. Dust Your Entire House

Reduce allergens and enjoy a house that not only looks clean, but feels clean.

39. Clip Coupons

So what if you're only able to knock $10 off your grocery bill, then put it in savings. A small discount is better than none.

40. Do Homework or Study for an Exam

Get a head start and you won't have to pull an all-night study session.

41. Update Your Calendar

Record due dates to make sure you pay bills on time and make a note of social functions. Or build a comprehensive productivity system, for free.

42. Surf the Internet

It's your online encyclopedia. Think of a topic you're interested in and expand your knowledge.

43. Dance

Whether you're cleaning your house or killing time, turn on the radio and show off your moves.

44. Knit or Do Needlepoint

Make scarves, blankets, and other wearables with your own hands. (See also: Gifts You Can Make Today)

45. Sing Karaoke

Invite friends over to your house for a karaoke afternoon or evening, or go to karaoke night at a local restaurant.

46. Clean Your Inbox

Go through your email and delete or unsubscribe to junk messages.

47. Catch Up on Your DVR

With limited memory, you have to watch shows before they're deleted.

48. Clean Your Jewelry

Rings, earrings, and necklaces will sparkle and look brand new after a good cleaning. You don't need a lot of equipment, either.

49. Shred Your Paperwork

Clean out your file cabinet and shred credit card statements, tax documents that are older than three years (conditions apply), receipts, and any other personal documents taking up space.

50. Look for a New Job

The job search can take hours — the perfect distraction when you're trying to avoid stores.

Do you have other ways to spend your time outside of the mall? Let me know in the comments below.

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: