Zero Start-Up Cost Hobbies or Low-Cost Activities You Can Pick Up Easily Today
Ever find yourself with a little extra time, and want to start a hobby? Worried that it will put a major drain on your bank account just to start one? Well, you can put those worries aside because I’ve developed this list of hobbies you can start for free (or very little money).
It doesn’t take a lot to get started with these hobbies, and some can even make you money down the line if you choose. Remember, the hardest part is to begin. Once you’ve started, if you decide you like it, you can always invest more later.
Most of these suggestions will assume you have internet access. You can go to your local library if you don’t have access at home. The library is really an incredible resource, almost everything is free to use and it’s not just for books.
Many libraries offer classes, subscriptions, and even provide basic materials you might need to start certain hobbies. Go spend some time there and discover all that they have to offer!
*This post does contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a commission if you click on them, however it does not affect the price you pay if you purchase.*
Free or Cheap Active Hobbies
This section is all about physical hobbies, many of which have the added benefits of providing exercise and/or a chance to get out in the fresh air. If you want to be more active while also pursuing a hobby, give these a try!
Hiking
This is a very easy hobby to get started with using things you likely already have. A pair of sneakers and weather appropriate clothing will be enough to get you started.
Just research some local hiking trails or parks nearby and go exploring! Stick to the easy trails at first and work your way up both in skill and equipment. Connect with others via meetup to find beginner hiking groups if you want to make it social.
Bird-Watching
Something you can even do while hiking, this is a fun way to get outside and enhance your trip. Tons of books on this topic at the library or online resources online will get you started for free. Find a cheap pair of binoculars secondhand or one like the pair below and off you go!
Geo-Caching
This active hobby is another one that can be done while hiking. Geo-caching requires a GPS device or cell phone with GPS because you will need it to find the hidden containers called “caches”. These can be anywhere, and the fun is finding them to see what’s inside. Geocaching.com has many you can find for free.
If you don’t want to (or can’t) use your phone and are willing to pony up a little investment to get started, take a look at a small GPS keychain like this:
Pokemon GO, or other Augmented Reality Games
In a similar niche to geocaching, Pokemon GO is an addictive and super fun game available for free on your smartphone. If you live under a rock and haven’t heard of Pokemon, they are these cute fictional animal-like characters that you can catch and collect or train to do battle with other Pokemon.
Pokemon GO is connected to the real world in that Pokemon exist in physical locations and you can go out searching and try to catch them. That’s where the “augmented” part of the the augmented reality comes from.
Certain locations in the real world, often monuments and historical sites, are set up as virtual “gyms” where you can meet other players and have your Pokemon battle to win in-game items. Possibly the most unique way to visit a statue, ever!
Tennis or Basketball
Many parks have open courts for the public, and you can pick up rackets, tennis balls, and basketballs from craigslist. They are also pretty inexpensive on Amazon. You don’t need any extra equipment for these sports, unlike the padding or cleats needed for football, soccer, or baseball.
Find some links to these inexpensive hobby-starters right here:
Yoga/Pilates
Personally, my favorite hobby. It can be as relaxing or as invigorating as you want and can be done almost anywhere. Many poses can be modified for flexibility. Get yourself a nice cushy yoga mat like the one below.
Also, there are thousands of Youtube sessions (online, for free!) that will get you started. It’s great for reducing anxiety and increasing bloodflow. Check out this beautiful one:
Running
Simple to start, just need a good pair of running shoes:
Dance
Youtube and the library combine to produce endless resources here. You can teach yourself or find some cheap local group classes on Groupon.
Other Posts about Saving Money You Might Like:
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- Super Broke Meals (That Are Easy and Delicious)
Creative Hobbies that Don’t Cost Money (Or are Cheap to Start)
This next set are all hobbies you can start for free or mostly free that in some way to increase your creativity or provide an outlet for that energy. Find something that inspires you and provides fulfillment.
Writing
Of course, this is also a big one for me. Writing of any kind has so many possibilities. You could start a blog like I have or write a novel as I am also trying to do. From journal entries to short stories, writing is an extremely flexible hobby. All you need is a pen and some paper!
Drawing/Painting
Youtube abounds with tutorials for this one. And it has very simple requirements to start: pencils and paper or brushes, paint and canvas.
Calligraphy
Like the others, this skill will probably require more time to learn how to do it well. But, you have to start somewhere! Calligraphy requires only a few things.
Whittling
You can start with a knife like below and some sticks until you master the basics, then move up to more complicated skills that require more equipment over time.
Origami
The art of paper folding is beautiful. Getting started with only paper is just as beautiful. So many overlook the satisfaction you can get by folding a detailed pattern into something three-dimensional. Once again, consult the all-knowing Youtube for free tutorials.
Photography
The cameras on smartphones these days can work wonders. Much of the editing software you need you can find on free apps as well. Taking awesome photos has never been easier.
Miscellaneous Inexpensive or Free Hobbies
Volunteering
There are so many organizations that would love to have your help, it’s hard to pick just one. Animal shelters need people to walk the dogs and give them affection, nursing homes need assistants to host activities, libraries need to tutors and people to read to kids. It goes on and on. Find something that you enjoy and there’s probably a way you can volunteer doing it.
Coding
Just like learning a new language, this requires some time to become proficient. But once you’ve learned the basics there are a lot of potential opportunities out there. Codeacademy will get you started for free.
Growing Plants
You can propagate plants from cuttings or seeds with as little as water and/or a $5 bag of seed starting soil. Use old yogurt containers for pots and trim off existing plants to begin. Or you could try a kit like this one:
Stargazing
Telescope not needed! You can see many constellations with the naked eye, you just may need to drive a few miles from the city and find a clear night.
Reading
A quiet hobby, with the added potential bonus of teaching you something new. One library, endless possibilities.
Final Thoughts on Starting a Free or Low-Cost Hobby
I hope you’ll find something on this list of hobbies you can start for free or very little money. Hobbies are important to your overall wellbeing, so don’t overlook them! Let me know if you started one of these or have one to add to the list.
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