fun things to do

7 Life Skills You Can Learn for Free

Ashley Eneriz — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 08:00:11 +0000

We don't learn everything in school. There are many people who might have an impressive degree and can do calculus, but when it comes to public speaking or cooking a tasty meal, they don't know where to begin. Here are seven basic life skills everyone needs to know, and how to learn them for free.

1. Budgeting

Rather than learning basic personal finance skills in school, many of us have had to learn financial lessons through costly trial and error. Learning to stick with a budget means you can avoid and pay off debt, save for retirement, and eventually be able to buy a home or splurge on a dream vacation.

There are several budgeting techniques you can use, but essentially you want to start tracking all of your bills and expenses, and ultimately see where you can cut back. Then move those extra funds to paying off debt or into a savings account. Keeping all of this information in one place like a spreadsheet will be your best bet in being able to get a clear picture of your finances. (See also: Take Control of Your Money With These 10 Free Spreadsheet Templates)

2. Public speaking

Even though many will not choose a career that requires constant speeches, like a pastor or politician, all of us will need to speak publicly at some point. Whether it be for a work meeting, a wedding speech, or a eulogy at a funeral, you'll have to get up in front of a group of people and not pass out from nerves.

You can audit the University of Washington’s public speaking course through Coursera for free, or rent books with tips on how to master this skill from your local library. You could even practice monologues in front of a mirror or for a group of friends.

3. Speed reading

Reading at a faster speed while maintaining comprehension can help you enjoy more books in less time. And depending on your line of work, it can also help you perform your work tasks at a quicker speed (and hopefully getting a bigger raise).

There are a few free speed reading courses through Skillshare and other free education platforms. One notable course on Skillshare is Speed Reading Mastery from Jordan Harry, a TEDx speaker who says he can read 1,500 words per minute. Skillshare does have a monthly fee of $15, but you can get the first month for free and take unlimited classes during that introductory period.

4. Speaking a second language

If mastering a second language is on your bucket list, then stop waiting for enough free time to get started. You can learn a new language by committing to 15-30 minutes a day with free audiobooks from the library or free online courses.

Duolingo is one of the most popular free language platforms and gamifies the learning process to make it more enjoyable. There are many languages offered, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. There is even an option to learn High Valyrian from Game of Thrones or Klingon from Star Trek. (See also: 11 Ways a Second Language Can Boost Your Career)

5. Cooking

There are so many elements to cooking, but everyone should feel comfortable enough in the kitchen to whip up a tasty meal with ingredients they have on hand. When you can look in your pantry and fridge and turn staples into dinner, you won’t be constantly tempted to order takeout.

Jamie Oliver has several YouTube videos on kitchen basics, such as roasting a chicken or making perfect scrambled eggs, along with how to make classic dishes like spaghetti carbonara. Once you've mastered the basics in the kitchen, take it to the next level with Gordon Ramsay’s YouTube lessons. And since you're not a contestant on Hell's Kitchen, you won't get yelled at if you make a mistake.

6. Sewing

Just learning the basics of sewing can save you tons of money because you'll be able to repair minor rips, reattach buttons, and even hem pants that are too long, instead of buying new clothing items all the time. You'll also be equipped to adjust your clothes or your children’s clothes during weight fluctuations or growth spurts.

The internet is full of free sewing tutorials and patterns, but a good starting place is Made Everyday’s sewing lessons on YouTube.

7. Writing

You don’t need to learn how to become the next best-selling author, but you do need to learn how to get your point across with the written word. A well-written letter or email can save you money on your bills, land you a job, soothe a family or friend conflict, or help you do better in the workplace. (See also: 4 Times a Handwritten Letter Can Save You Big Bucks.)

You can audit this free business writing course from Coursera, which covers how to write effectively in the business world and how to avoid basic grammar errors.

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

19 Free (or Cheap) Ways to Make Winter Hibernation Fun

Mikey Rox — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 09:31:08 +0000

Wild winter weather keeping you cooped up inside? Cabin fever got you down? You're not alone. Send your stuck-in-the-house blues packin' with these cheap or free ways to have fun indoors while Mother Nature does her thing.

1. Challenge your partner to a cook-off

My boyfriend and I love cooking at home together, but we also love junk food, which is why our recent chicken wings and cookie cook-off was such a fun success. With our new air fryer, wings are easier than ever to make (seriously, this appliance has changed our lives!), and the cookies were a sweet juxtaposition to all that salt and spice.

2. Rent this year's Academy Award Best Picture nominees

Every year before the Academy Awards, I attend the Best Picture Showcase hosted by AMC theaters, which screens all the nominated films during two full-day Saturday screenings, or one marathon 24-hour screening that shows the nominees back-to-back.

But you don't even need to step outside in order to catch some of this year's nominated films. Check to see which films are available to rent on-demand and have your own movie marathon from your couch or bed. And don't forget the candy and popcorn! It's a relaxing way to catch up on award-worthy flicks without having to brave the elements.

3. Host a puppy party

My dog Jaxon loves his life at the beach, especially during the warmer months when we go to the outdoor doggy happy hour to hang out and roll around in the sand. He misses that in the wintertime, which makes right now the perfect time to invite some of his furry friends over for a play date. It's a win-win for both of us; he gets to roughhouse with his pals, and I get to day drink with my buddies.

4. Start bullet journaling

My lovely friend Brooke recently introduced me to bullet journaling, in which you jot down quick bullet point notes or tasks, rather than writing out full sentences, and use different symbols as a way to prioritize goals and tasks that need to be completed at different times. It's a concept that any busy person can get down with to make themselves more productive. (See also: This Simple Journal May be the Fix for Your Finances)

5. Snuggle up with a podcast

Pour yourself a cup of tea, wrap up in a cozy throw, and climb into your comfiest chair to spend a couple hours listening to an engaging podcast, like the murder-mystery serials that have been so popular over the past few years. There's a podcast for everyone, and on pretty much any subject you can think of, so your options are endless. (See also: 12 Podcasts Bookworms Will Love)

6. Create a vision board for the future

Fortify your New Year's resolutions with a vision board that helps you "see" your goals on a regular basis while you think about how to achieve them. Use your old magazines and newspapers as source material.

7. Prep your taxes

Tax prep isn't exactly fun, but it has to be done. Motivate yourself with the prospect of that helpful refund. And even if you don't get a refund, it'll give you peace of mind to know what you owe and give you plenty of time to get your finances in order before Tax Day. (See also: 12 Things You Should Know About the New Tax Law)

8. Plan a cheap, adventurous weekend getaway

You don't have to go far to experience something exciting and new. It doesn't have to be expensive, either. Hop online to plan a local getaway filled with low- or no-cost activities like hiking, biking, open-mic nights, bingo, and bar trivia.

9. Put on your cold-weather gear and play in the snow

During a blizzard a couple years ago, I ventured outside in all my snow gear and made my way to the downtown area for brunch and drinks. I ran into friends along the way, helped a few folks get their vehicles out of precarious positions, and got in a pretty good workout from all the treacherous ground I covered. It was honestly one of my best winter memories to date.

10. Try a new soup recipe to warm your soul

What's more satisfying than a hearty homemade bowl of soup on a chilly day? From-scratch soups are kinda my thing lately, but if you're imagining slaving over a pot for hours, think again. The ones I like go from pot to table in about 30 minutes. A quick search on Pinterest will get you started. (See also: 20 Cheap and Easy Soup Recipes)

11. Build a grown-up fort

Tuck the corners of your extra flat sheets from one drawer to another around your room and act like a kid again. Make the covered space cozier with pillows, blankets, your favorite person, snacks, and devices to keep you two entertained.

12. Feed the birds

Gather a few pinecones, slather them with peanut butter, and roll in birdseed before hanging from your porch or trees. Watch all the beautiful birds — like colorful cardinals and jays — stop by for lunch.

13. Clean out your closets and sell what you don't want

Organizing closets and drawers is my idea of fun when there's a payoff involved. Gather your unwanted, in-great-condition clothing and send to an online consignment shop like Swap.com. I've made over $300 on the site just by selling the clothing I no longer want. (See also: Turn Old Clothes Into Money With These 4 Tools and Apps)

14. Treat yourself to a DIY spa day

Exfoliate your body, make a DIY facial, and give yourself a mani/pedi before slipping into a warm, bubbly bath with a glass of wine (or two), and your favorite reading material. (See also: 9 DIY Beauty Masks Made From Food)

15. Turn snow into ice cream

You only need three ingredients besides fresh snow to make snow ice cream: sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. It's worth a try at least. (See also: 9 Ways to Put All That Snow to Good Use)

16. Crank up a few of your neglected appliances

I have several appliances that don't get as much use as they should, like my popcorn and waffle makers, which makes a hibernation day the perfect time for a popcorn and waffle party.

17. Rearrange your furniture

Repositioning your furniture can give your place a whole new look and feel. Switch things up while you have some time on your hands.

18. Use your holiday gift cards to shop online

Shopping is definitely one of my favorite pastimes. And there are lots of great sales this time of year, including post-Christmas and winter clearance, and President's Day (which is one of the best shopping weekends of the year, by the way).

19. Start a scrapbook of your recent adventures

My boyfriend and I just went on an incredible trip to Colorado Springs. So much nature and adventure at every turn (I recommend getting out there if you have the opportunity; you won't regret it), and we have lots of photos of the memories we made, which is the perfect starter material for a scrapbook.

Of course, you don't have to go anywhere to start a scrapbook of your own. You probably have photos and mementos of past vacations and special occasions lying around the house right now that you can use to start your own scrapbooking project. Plus, Valentine's Day is coming up, and this would make a thoughtful gift.

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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:

8 Free Things You Can Do on Any Vacation

Paul Michael — Tue, 02 Jan 2018 09:00:06 +0000

Taking a vacation can be costly. If you're flying the whole family somewhere special, you'll likely spend a whole bunch of money on airfare, baggage fees, hotel rooms, taxis, and possibly a rental car before you've even started to explore the area. But once you're settled in, you don't have to spend more money on activities. Here are eight free and fun ideas to keep the family occupied. (See also: 7 Fool-Proof Ways to Stay Within Your Travel Budget)

1. Free museums

Museums are not the stuffy old hangouts they used to be. Or rather, people thought they were. Today's museums have taken advantage of the latest technology, and they embrace pop culture to bring some very fun and family-friendly exhibitions to life. While many museums around the world charge an admission fee (especially for a big event like Star Wars costumes), there are a bunch that will let you get in for free at any time of the year. For example, the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C., including the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum, and the Natural History Museum, are completely free of charge to visit. Others are free on certain days. (See also: 5 Natural Wonders You Can See For Free)

2. Picnic in the park

Chances are, you'll find a park somewhere near the place you're visiting. Even Manhattan, which is one of the busiest cities in the world, has dozens of parks to visit. If the weather will allow it, why not spend one day of your vacation at the park? Ideally, you should pack a picnic blanket before you go on your vacation. If you didn't, or adding the blanket adds extra baggage fees, pick up a cheap one at the dollar store or drugstore when you get there. Some hotels provide extra blankets and bedding in the closets, so that's another frugal option for you.

If your hotel provides a complimentary breakfast or buffet, take advantage of it. Otherwise, check out the nearest grocery store for food, snacks, and drinks, and remember to get some recyclable plates, cups, and silverware. As always, leave the park free from any of your trash and containers when you leave.

3. Photo scavenger hunt challenge

Wherever you go on vacation, it's going to have landmarks and places of interest. Before you go, do a little research. What are some famous monuments in the area? Are there unusual street names and street signs? How about some local celebrities, or popular places to eat and drink?

Make a good list of around 20+ items, varying in difficulty from really easy to "How the heck will we get a shot of that?!" Then, pick a day to do your scavenger hunt and split into groups. If you're with children, make sure they're in a group with someone of appropriate age to help them cross the street. Give yourself a time limit, then agree to meet back at the hotel and share your results. The group with the most items checked off the list wins. And if it's a tie, the best photo is your tiebreaker. (See also: 20 Ways to Entertain Your Kids for Free)

4. Google "free events this week in…"

Denver. Boston. Santa Monica. Seattle. You name it, there are almost certainly free events happening during your stay. By far the easiest way to find out about them is to Google it. Most of the time, you'll be directed to the tourism site of that particular town or city, which will have all the information you need. If Googling doesn't bring up the best results for you, try the local free newspapers and publications. Local stores, pubs, and tourist attractions will often have bulletin boards showcasing free events in the area.

If all that fails, ask your hotel concierge. They will know the area intimately and will steer you in the right direction. Tip the concierge well at the start of your stay, and he or she will be an incredible source of information on everything from the best cheap places to eat, to how to score tickets to shows.

5. Take a free walking tour

Free tours of towns and cities are widely available. In fact, the site FreeTour.com is dedicated to them, and will help you find a free walking tour in over 100 countries around the world. Now, it's worth keeping in mind that "free" doesn't mean completely free. The tour guide that takes you and your party around the city is not getting paid a fee, but he or she will appreciate a tip. How much you tip, and how many of you tip, will vary from guide to guide, but as some people do this as a major source of income, it's nice to tip well. However, you are not obliged to tip.

These tours are safe, the guides love talking to new people and sharing the hidden delights of the city, and they can be a fun way to explore and meet new people. And it's not a bad idea to tour your own town or city when you return. You'll be amazed at the things you didn't know about the place you've been living in.

6. Collect free souvenirs

A great way to spend some time with the family (or even on your own) is to spend a few hours hunting for free keepsakes that you can take home. If you're in a spot near a beach, the most obvious keepsakes are shells, sand, and rocks; however, sea glass is also a great treasure, and very decorative. If you're near woodland areas, collect a few pine cones or chestnuts.

If you're in a more urban setting, complimentary matchbooks from bars and hotels are wonderful souvenirs. Some people even collect drink coasters, or menus. Others like to get creative and ask for free samples at candy stores, or items from the reject bin at craft stores. As long as you're not taking something of value without permission, the sky's the limit.

7. Find some free local live music

Many bars, pubs, and even restaurants will bring in a band or other performer on certain nights of the week to boost sales. The music act is paid for by the venue, and you don't have to pay a cent. The easiest way to find free live music is to Google "free live music near me" and you'll get a list of results. You can also ask the locals if they know of good places to see live music, and of course, the concierge will be happy to fill you in, as well.

8. Play some games

We get so engrossed in our work, the news, social media, bills to pay, and the other stresses of a busy life, that we don't leave a lot of time for family fun. When you're on vacation, you're escaping, both physically and mentally, from those distractions. So why not spend a few hours getting back to basics? Charades is a classic game that requires just a few eager participants and some random titles of books, movies, TV shows, and plays. You could try "two truths and a lie," and perhaps learn a few surprising facts about the people closest to you. Travel board games are cheap, popular, and will last you years, as well. Pack a few before you leave. And hey, if you've got young kids, hide and seek is always a hit.

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

17 Creative, No-Mess Activities for Kids Stuck at Home

Annie Mueller — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 08:30:11 +0000

Maybe you have a kid stuck at home because they're not old enough for school yet, or maybe they're home with a cold, or it's a snow day. It doesn't matter. This list is jam-packed with ideas to keep them occupied and fully entertained all day long, without a huge, sticky mess to clean after it's over. (See also: 50 Fun Things to Do When You're Stuck Inside During Winter)

1. Get pointillistic with dot markers

Dot markers have been around for a long time, used primarily for playing Bingo. I've found the best deals at the local dollar store.

Use them to create connect-the-dots or to draw on plain paper. You could also have the kids try a crash course on pointillism, a cool art technique that involves a lot of dots. They can use the dot markers to create their own pointillistic masterpieces.

2. Draw a comic strip

Your kiddo can be a cartoonist. First, print out blank comic strips or draw your own comic strips by marking out the lines on plain paper. Use a ruler to get them straight.

Then they can use colored pencils, washable markers, or pens to draw and color in their own comic strips. Encourage them to make up new characters going on amazing adventures, or suggest that they simply draw out stories based on their own daily lives.

3. Make (and play) a ringtoss game

You can make a ringtoss game out of almost anything (just make sure it isn't sharp, or hard, or breakable). You'll need things that are ring-shaped or that you can bend into a ring shape, like pipe cleaners. Then you need a target: something thin and tall enough for the rings to slide over.

To play, have your kids set the target up and take two or three big steps back from it. They toss as many rings over the target as they can. You can make it more interesting by adding in extra challenges, such as a time limit, smaller rings, or having them stand further away from the target.

4. Create your own board game

Your kids get to design the whole game: characters, the goal, the board, and the rules.

Have them start by deciding what the goal is: how can someone win the game? Do they need to get a certain number of points? Or go all the way around the board? Then have them set some rules: do they roll dice or use a spinner? (They can use parts from other board games you own — such as dice or an hourglass — for their new game.)

Suggest that they use whatever they can find as raw materials. For example, draw the game board on a piece of cardboard, cut paper into cards, create characters or game pieces out of modeling clay, or use tiny toys they already have.

5. Try an origami challenge

Start with some simple shapes for origami. There are a lot of YouTube tutorials, for example, a ninja star or a baby chicken or a water bomb. (Obviously you should start with the water bomb.) When they've mastered a couple of the easier tutorials, have them try some harder shapes.

6. Build a tiny town

Hit up the recycling bin for empty plastic bottles and cardboard boxes. The thin cardboard is best, because it's easier to cut.

They can build the structures of their town by cutting, stacking, and combining boxes and bottles. Cut out or draw on doors and windows. Washi tape or masking tape can be used to attach the structures together. Colored tape can also be used to designate roads through their very own tiny towns.

7. Make a marble run

Start with a hard surface (like the floor) and use toys and books to create a racecourse. Your kids can put in little obstacles; they should be small and light so the marble won't be stopped completely. To start the marble on its run, cut cardboard tubes (from toilet paper or paper towels) in half. Tape them together to make them longer. Stack one end on books or a table and make sure it slopes down into the beginning of the racecourse.

8. Make a toy car track

If they have some toy cars, they can make a custom track, with jumps and challenges, out of almost anything. My kids use stools or a stack of books and then pieces of cardboard, small boxes, or big, flat books to build ramps and jumps.

They can even come up with tunnels and create obstacle courses. If they have blocks or Legos around, they can build some structures or tunnels for the cars to go through. Or demolish. That part is entirely up to them.

9. Create an ad

The idea of this game is for your kids to come up with their very own advertisement for a made-up product. So, to start with, have them come up with a product that they want to "sell." It can be as stupid or silly or serious as they want it to be.

Next, they need to come up with some ideas about how to advertise it. Maybe a story, or act out a scene, or perform a song. They can use costumes, props, a whole scene. My kids like to video their ads and then review and improve them. Or just laugh at them.

10. Make a music video or do karaoke

They should select their songs, decide on a script or choreographed dance if they're making a video, or just sing and dance their hearts out. Costumes and props make this extremely fun and allow them to be more immersed in the music.

11. Go on a scavenger hunt

A scavenger hunt can work inside or outside. You can come up with your own list and have them hunt around the house for them, or they can come up with their own list of ideas. They can decide to hunt as a team or go separately as a competition. Set a timer to make it more challenging and exciting.

12. Create a memory challenge

The kids will need a timer for this. They should start by finding five to 10 small objects: a marble, a toy car, a spoon, etc. Spread them out on a tray and look at them for 30 seconds. Then move the tray somewhere they can't see it and have them try to remember all the objects on the tray. They can write a list or draw a picture of each one. How many did they remember? If they got them all, add more objects, or start with a completely new set. Make it more challenging by giving them less time to look at the objects on the tray (try 20 seconds, and then 15).

13. Take a Lego building challenge

Kids can use any sort of building toy for this. Blocks or K'Nex or Magnetos will work just as well as Legos. First, make a list of 10 to 15 things they want to build. Or check out these printable Lego challenge cards for inspiration.

To do the challenge, choose something from the list to build. Then start building. They can use a timer to see how quickly they can build it. Or they can take their time and do the best possible job.

14. Tell some fortunes

This is fun to do with friends or siblings. Make some paper fortunetellers by following these instructions.

Or, for a simpler version, you can play a game from my childhood (I know, right? So old.) called MASH. All you need is a piece of paper and something to write with. Here are the full instructions.

15. Do some pasta-marshmallow architecture

Get their inner architect to work with dry pasta. Seriously! They'll need dry spaghetti noodles and mini marshmallows. Gumdrops work too, if you're low on marshmallows.

To build, stick the spaghetti noodles into the marshmallows and gumdrops to connect them and create structures. You can also use toothpicks, or break the spaghetti into pieces for shorter sections. You can start with simple squares and cubes, and then connect them for more complex structures. Here's some inspiration to get you started.

16. Make a felt board and pieces

You'll need felt, some cardboard, and scissors. To start, have the kids cover a cardboard with felt, then staple or carefully glue it on. They could use a few different colors of felt to create a background or setting. Maybe a green strip for grass on the bottom, and a gray triangle for a mountain.

Next, they can cut out shapes with the rest of the felt. The felt shapes will stick to the felt board, so they can use them to create characters, settings, buildings, and all sorts of other stuff on the felt board.

17. Come up with 10

Need some more ideas? I got this method from a writer named James Altucher, and it works well. You can do this or have your kids do this if they're bored.

First, think of a problem or a question, like "What are some cool things I can do by myself?" or "What could I do when I'm bored that won't get me in trouble?" Then make a list of 10 ideas that answer your question. Don't stop at five or six. Your brain will want to. Don't let it be lazy. Insist on 10. Your brain saves all the really good ideas for eight and nine and 10.

If you make one list, you can make another one. What's another question? How about, "What can I do with my friends?" or "What are some things I want to learn about?" or "How can I not be bored?" Make another list for each question. Make 10 lists! Now you have 100 ideas. (See also: 25 Ways to Entertain Your Child for Free or Cheap)

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

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:

8 Reasons Frugal Families Love Boardgame Night

Samantha Stauf — Thu, 21 Jul 2016 09:30:27 +0000

My siblings and I spent our childhood playing popular, mainstream board games. Monopoly, The Game of Life, Clue, Chinese Checkers, and Pictionary granted us hours of family fun, interrupted occasionally by a temper tantrum. Monopoly, as many people know, can be dull and brutal.

Playing board games died off in my high school years. Once I hit college, I was introduced to a wider variety of games — and the spark was rekindled. Instead of vegging in front of the TV or spending money to go see a movie, we began to sit down to play board games once again. Here are eight reasons why you should pick up boardgaming as a family activity, too.

1. So Many Game Options

Dozens of new games are introduced every year by major board game companies and individuals through Kickstarter campaigns. You don't need, nor should you, limit your family to the games you can find on Walmart's shelves.

A local game store, or Amazon, will all have a broader collection of board games that range anywhere from $5-$100. This large collection of potential games will increase the chance of finding a game your family will love at the right price range.

2. Game Guidance From the Pros

Don't be intimidated by a new game. No one expects you to fork over the money for a game without a little guidance on how to play. There are a number of YouTube channels dedicated to reviewing and recommending games to help individuals find good games.

Frugal families might want to check out any of these YouTube shows to watch reviews of games before purchasing the game:

3. Access to Simple and Clear Game Rules

Board games can be complicated. I have a game that has around 30 pages of rules. Even as an experienced gamer, I find that a tad intimidating. There are a variety of different interactive and visual means to help families deal with learning these complicated rules for more enjoyable game play.

Check out free board game rules introduction videos (as mentioned above) and game playthroughs on YouTube.
Search the Android or iTunes app store for free or cheap digital versions of the game. Ascension and Coup are both complicated games that have free app versions that provide interactive walkthroughs.
Look for free game aids that can help you understand the rules, set the game's difficulty level, and randomize board setup. Settlers of Catan, Legendary, and Battlestar Galactica: The Board Game all have free player aids.

4. You Can Shop Bigger, for Lower Prices

Support your local TableTop store when you can, but don't feel bad if you occasionally need to turn to bigger retailers like Toys 'R Us, Target, Amazon, or Walmart for lower prices. Even better, if you find a game at a store you can't in good conscious shop from, you can utilize price matching to get that lower price on either an in-store or online purchase.

5. Try Board Game Rental Services

An alternative option to creating your own version of popular games is to rent board games rather than buy them. This has the bonus of being fairly cheap, allows you to explore different types of games, and allows you to play games that might be out of your price range.

You can either rent games by seeing if your local board game store has a rental service, or checking out an online board game rental store. In rare cases, you might even find that your local library has added board games to their rental collection.

6. DIY Board Games

Not ready to spend $60 for a game? Here's a bit of good news: With a little creativity and work, you can easily create DIY board games to save money.

Don't stop there though. There are a number of fun games you can easily DIY.

Telestrations — A mix of telephone and Pictionary, requires you to cut out 30+ medium-sized pieces of paper and give everyone a pen.
Superfight — A game where you present a case over which person, object, or animal in a match-up would win. It only requires you to cut out card-sized pieces of paper. On 1/3 of the pieces of paper, you will write any sentient object, person, or creature. On the rest of the cards, in a different color pen or a different color paper, you'll write an object, personality trait, or physical trait.

7. Fan-Made DIY Board Games

There are tons of dedicated fans that have already done all the hard work of creating original fan games or expansions of already-made board games. All you need to do is download the PDF versions of their work and print it off at home.

Here are a few free fan-made versions of board games:

8. Choose Games With High Replay Value

Board games can be expensive. Games tend to run anywhere from $10-$60. Yes, a $60 game might be expensive, but you can make that price worth it by carefully choosing games that grant high replay value. These are games that often come with extra boards, scenarios, or cards that offer a slightly fresh gaming experience each time you play. These are also games where it isn't easy for players to pinpoint a set strategy to win.

Here are a few games with high replay value:

Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game
Betrayal at the House on the Hill
Robo Rally
Cosmic Encounter

If you need a new pastime, board games can be a fun, cost-effective activity that offer hours of family fun. Between the vast number of games and the rapidly growing TableTop community — on and off-line — now is the time to adopt board gaming as a new family pastime.

Do you have family game nights? Which board games do you play? Share with us!

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

Flashback Friday: 143 Fun and Frugal Ways to Spend Your Weekend

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 10:00:10 +0000

It's almost the weekend and you have no plans. That can be exciting, or also a little scary. Because when weekend plans aren't mapped out ahead of time, it's easy to default to the pricier activities like shopping — or to just skip it and stay home (again).

So instead of leaving the fate of your savings hanging in the balance, try one of these fun and frugal ways to spend your weekend. And walk into work on Monday fully relaxed and not totally broke.

19 Fun, Cheap Projects to Try This Weekend — Why spend all of your cash on a crafty item you can just make yourself? Enter the beautiful world of DIY and give these fun projects a try.

Make Your Escape With These 14 Affordable Weekend Getaways — A last-minute weekend getaway to Paris would be a blast, sure, but have you explored all of your local and regional nooks and crannies yet? Because with any of these affordable weekend getaway ideas, you'll feel like a tourist without spending money like one.

The 12 Best Weekend Activities for Introverts — Introverts don't need much in terms of outside entertainment, and they would prefer a 48-hour period of minimal social interactions. So if you're in the mood to hibernate and relax like a pro, here you go.

18 Awesome Things You Can Do This Weekend for Under $10 — It doesn't take much these days to spend $10. I mean, one bottle of pressed juice can cost more than that, in some places. So these cheap weekend plans are especially inspiring, and also a ton of fun!

Pick Up One of These Frugal Hobbies This Weekend — If you haven't given origami or geocaching a try, you are seriously missing out. Along with these other 11 frugal hobbies, your future weekends will be budget-friendly and extremely fulfilling.

20 Cheap Fun Things to Do With Kids This Weekend — Keeping the kids busy without spending much money can seem like an impossible magic trick. But quality time with the kiddos shouldn't cost a thing, and it doesn't have to with these 20 activities.

47 Cheap, Fun Things to Do This Weekend — Do not underestimate the enjoyment you'll get from watching a sunset or baking a pie. They're simple ways to spend your time, but aren't simple things actually the best things?

What are your plans for the weekend? Share with us!

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