One of the biggest drawbacks to going to one income is feeling deprived. On a two-income budget, there is usually a little more “free money” to play and use for entertainment. How do you go to a one-income budget, but not feel like you have to sit at home and stare at the walls? Here are a few tips I have come across to help you have fun without breaking your budget.
1. Have an “Entertainment Budget”. Write this section into your budget and stick to it. If you only put $5 a week into this budget, you are still making progress. It gives you hope seeing that little amount go up each week that you will be able to afford to go see a movie or splurge on a dinner out after a few weeks.
2. Pack a Picnic Dinner. We all eat dinner, right? Why not make it fun and pack it up and take it to a park? Take a frisbee or football with you and spend some time outside when you are finished eating. If you have pets, take them with you and let them enjoy the great outdoors with the family. If you plan this meal into your grocery budget, it should only cost you a little extra gas to drive to the park.
3. Rent Movies At Redbox. These DVD machines are a great way to rent newer movies for cheap. They only cost $1 per night to rent. If you are blessed enough to find them, there are codes floating around on the internet to give you a free night’s rental! That is free entertainment! Put the movie in, pop some popcorn, and pile up on the couch for a great time!
4. Check Out Free Events In Your City. We do not live in a large city, but the city we live in hosts free events throughout the year. We have listened to concerts in the park, seen plays, and gone to several festivals that were completely free for us! Check your city’s website or the chamber of commerce for a calendar of events in your area that are free.
5. Use The Internet to Your Advantage. If you have access to the internet, use some popular search engines to find some free and cheap activities for your family. There are places that offer free movie tickets, reduced gift certificates, and many other items that you can use for cheaper entertainment. Be careful to not believe everything you see on the internet. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Use your common sense and you should be okay.
These are just a few ways you and your family can have fun without breaking your budget. I know there are many more ideas out there. Feel free to share them!
