Maintaining friendships as adult women is hard enough. Things become even more complicated when you strive to keep things within budget. Brunches and girls trips certainly add up, but. spending quality time with your girlfriends doesn’t always have to break the bank. From cozy nights in to adventurous outings, there are plenty of low-cost ways to maintain your group connection.
If the girls are ready to bond, yet want to save some coin, here are seven cheap activities to do with friends.
Potluck Picnic
A potluck picnic is an ideal way to enjoy the fresh outdoors over some delicious homemade food. Each person brings their own dish to contribute, with the cost of the meal being spread out evenly. You can choose a local park or any scenic spot being a picnic blanket with some pillows. It’s giving comfy and creative with a side of nature, all while keeping things affordable.
At Home Karaoke
You don’t need to go to an expensive karaoke bar to sing your favorite songs with friends. Using a karaoke app or YouTube and setting up a microphone is all that’s necessary. The girls can take turns belting out their favorite tracks, from their childhood favorites to Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter. With snacks and drinks on hand, this cheap activity can quickly become a night full of laughter, friendly competition and off-key renditions.
Hiking
If you live near hiking trails, then this is a fun and free activity to enjoy with friends. Hiking provides a great opportunity to get outside, get moving, and catch up while surrounded by nature. You can opt for a beginner-friendly trail or take on something more challenging if your group is up for it. There’s nothing like reconnecting while taking in some scenic views. Hiking is not just a workout. It’s also a great way to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company in the healing tranquility of nature.
Book Club
Starting a book club with friends hold you accountable for keeping up with your reading, but it’s also a low-cost way to enjoy quality time together. You can choose a book to read and then meet up either in person or virtually to discuss everything that moved you. If you want to keep things extra affordable, stick to library books or e-books. If your group enjoys reading different genres, you can also rotate choices to keep things fresh.
Clothing Swap
Refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime by organizing a clothing swap with your friends. Each person brings gently used clothes they no longer wear, and you can “shop” from each other’s collection. It’s an environmentally friendly activity that will leave you with a brand new outfit. You can set up a clothing exchange in someone’s living room or backyard, cultivating a fun environment while promoting sustainability.
Game Night
A classic game night is always a winner when it comes to cheap activities with friends. Whether you prefer board games, card games or video games, there’s a wide range of options for everyone. Classic games, like charades, Pictionary or trivia, using nothing but your imagination and wit.
Spa Sleepover
Host a spa sleepover at home, where you and the girls can indulge in DIY beauty treatments, like facemasks, manicures and pedicures. With some dim lights, candles and soothing music, you’ll feel instantly transported. Ask everyone to bring their favorite skincare products or pick up a few inexpensive supplies, like nail polish, essential oils and bath salts. This not only leaves everyone feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, but also is a perfect way to unwind and bond in a low-cost way.