21 Fun Cheap Hobbies To Boost Creativity & Save Money

Last Updated November 10, 2024 by Davina Kelly

You’re craving something to fill your spare time that will stimulate your mind, but you also want to save money. These cheap hobbies could be exactly what you’ve been looking for. 

Finding hobbies that are fun, rewarding and budget-friendly can be tricky. But don’t worry – I’ve got you covered.

In this post, I’m going to share some amazing cheap hobbies that you can start without blowing your budget. These hobbies are perfect for when you want to relax, learn something new or stay active – all while saving money. 

Whether you’re into creativity, personal growth or fitness, there’s something here for everyone. These are some of my favourite hobbies so I’ll be sharing my personal experience.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we will receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

21 Best Cheap Hobbies That Won’t Break the Bank:

1. Drawing

Drawing is one of the most rewarding creative outlets and the best part is it’s free. You don’t need fancy tools to get started – all you need is a basic pencil and some plain paper that’s it.  

Whether you’re doodling, sketching or trying more complex drawings, this cheap hobby allows you to express your creativity without breaking the bank. 

Not sure where to begin? YouTube has tons of free tutorials that make learning art accessible and fun. You can start with the basics like shading and perspective and even learn how to draw faces. 

Some of my favourite YouTube channels are Art Hub for Kids and Christina Lorre – they break down techniques so they’re easy to follow.  

I’d always wanted to learn how to draw, so I started with these free tutorials. Eventually, I wanted to learn 3D drawing, so I bought this book to deepen my skills. Now, I can actually draw in 3D—it still amazes me, and I’m so glad I stuck with it! 

The possibilities are endless when it comes to drawing and with a little practice you’ll start seeing improvement in no time. 

2. Painting

Painting is one of the most popular hobbies for people who want to be creative and feel relaxed. It might seem like a hobby that requires expensive supplies, but you can start on a budget. 

All you need is a few basic paints, brushes and some paper or canvas. Watercolours are often more affordable than oil paints and you can find beginner sets at local craft stores or online. I usually get my supplies from eBay, Amazon or Hobby Crafts.

Painting is very therapeutic. Whether you’re creating abstract designs, landscapes or portraits the act of mixing colours and putting brush to canvas is a great way to unwind. You can follow free tutorials on YouTube to pick up techniques or just let your imagination run wild. 

And don’t worry if you’re not the next Van Gogh – this hobby is all about having fun and expressing yourself.  

3. DIY Crafting

Remember the joy of crafting as a kid in school, making things with your hands just for the fun of it? Why not revisit that joy by taking up DIY crafting as an adult?

DIY crafting is a fun, creative and budget-friendly hobby where you can make anything from home decor to gifts with just a few supplies. Crafting not only saves money but also allows you to personalise items that reflect your unique style. 

If you’re new to DIY, start with small projects like making handmade cards or decorative jars. As you gain more confidence, you can try larger projects like wall art, upcycling furniture or making seasonal decorations. 

DIY crafting is also a great way to repurpose items you already have at home helping you to reduce waste and save even more. 

There are plenty of free resources online – Pinterest is full of easy DIY ideas and YouTube has many tutorials for almost every kind of craft imaginable. 

It’s also a great group activity, so gather some friends or family, and have a DIY crafting session for a fun, productive get-together!

4. Journaling

Journaling is a great way to clear your mind and express your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It’s a versatile tool you can use to set goals, reflect on your day, manage your stress, hone your creativity and even enhance your personal growth. 

Think of your journal as free therapy – it’s a space just for you. Getting started doesn’t require much: a simple notebook and pen will do the trick, and you probably already have those lying around.

If you prefer digital journaling, you can easily do it on your phone or tablet. Just make sure to lock it with a password to keep your entries private.

Some people hesitate to start journaling because they feel overwhelmed by the “aesthetic” journals they see online. But journaling doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. It’s one of the simplest, cheap hobbies – there are no rules. 

Whether you’re jotting down your thoughts, setting long-term goals or venting journaling helps you organise your thoughts and gain clarity. 

Of course, you’ll occasionally feel stuck, but you can use these journal prompts for inspiration. And remember it doesn’t need to be perfect. My journal entries are often messy but it’s a judgement-free zone and all that matters is that you express yourself.

If you’re new to journaling start slow. Try writing for just five minutes a day – simply jot down whatever comes to mind. Over time, you’ll find it’s not only a great way to release stress but also an insightful tool for understanding yourself better and supporting your personal growth.

Cheap Hobbies That Make Money

5. Writing

Writing is versatile and rewarding and it’s also a cheap hobby that can make money. And it doesn’t cost anything to get started. 

You can try creative writing, start a blog or keep a personal journal, either way, putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) is a great way to express yourself. 

If you’re new to writing you could start with something simple like journaling. Write down your thoughts, ideas and reflections – it’s a great way to relax and unwind. 

From there you can explore other areas like poetry, short stories or even personal essays. Writing also gives you the chance to improve your language skills, expand your vocabulary and process your emotions. 

There are plenty of free resources online from writing prompts to courses that can help you get started. You might even find inspiration and support by joining a local writing group or virtual community. Over time, you may even develop a unique writing style that’s all your own. 

If you’re looking to increase your income you could monetise your writing hobby. Working as a freelance writer allows you to get paid to write articles, blog posts or even eBooks. Or you could become a copywriter and make money from your writing skills.  

6. Online Gaming

With just an internet connection and a device, you can dive into the worlds of adventure and strategy – without spending a fortune. Online gaming lets you explore endless adventures whether you’re slaying dragons, solving mysteries or testing out strategic skills.

The great thing about online gaming is that there are countless games you can play for free. From mobile games to full-blown computer games you can find everything from fast-paced battle royales to casual games like solitaire. 

And if you’d like to earn a little extra cash while gaming, consider using a platform like InboxDollars. With InboxDollars, you can earn points for playing games, completing surveys and more which can then be redeemed for cash via PayPal or even gift cards. 

How fun is that? Instead of paying to play, games like Solitaire will actually reward you while you play. This won’t make you rich, but it’s a nice perk that lets you make the most out of your gaming hobby. 

Online gaming can be both fun and budget-friendly so it’s a great way to unwind without breaking the bank. Just be sure to set some boundaries – gaming can be addicting after all!

You can sign up to InboxDollars here for FREE and turn your gaming hobby into extra cash. Plus, you’ll get a free $5 bonus for signing up. 

7. Blogging

Blogging is a fun affordable hobby that can turn into a side hustle if you’re consistent. 

You can start your blog for free on WordPress, you’ll just need to pay for hosting which you get for just under $5 a month. It’s one of the most affordable ways to start an online business – it’s how I started with this very blog. 

The beauty of blogging is that it’s not only a creative outlet, but it’s also a way to connect with others who share your interests and passions. 

As your blog grows you can earn money through many different ways such as display advertising and affiliate marketing and you can even sell your own digital products. 

For example, if you have a book blog you can write book reviews, share reading tips and share your favourite book recommendations. Linking to these products with affiliate links can earn you commissions whenever a reader makes a purchase.

You can check out this FREE 7 day start a profitable blog course here, it’ll teach you how to start your blog from scratch and launch it with no prior experience required. 

8. Photography

With the quality of smartphone cameras these days, you don’t need an expensive DSLR to start taking beautiful photos. Photography is a hobby that allows you to capture the world around you, from nature to candid moments with friends and family. 

Once you’ve honed your skills you can consider turning this hobby into a side hustle. Platforms like Shutterstock allow you to sell stock photos or you could offer your services for small events. You can read here to get more photography side hustle ideas. 

The initial investment is minimal and with practice, you can improve your technique and even make a little extra cash on the side. 

9. Online Tutoring

Do you have expertise in a particular subject? If so, you can share your knowledge through online tutoring. Parents and students are more than willing to pay someone top dollar to help them with their studies. 

There are many cheap hobbies that make money, but this one is the most rewarding and thanks to platforms like Chegg and Preply you can connect with students who need help in various subjects. 

Tutoring online gives you the flexibility to work from home and set your own schedule. It’s a rewarding way to spend your time, especially if you enjoy teaching and helping others succeed academically. 

Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra income while doing something meaningful. 

Cheap Hobbies for Personal Growth

10. Reading

Reading is one of my favourite low-cost hobbies. Instead of binge-watching Netflix, why not curl up on the sofa with a good book?

Whether you prefer fiction, non-fiction or self-improvement books, you can find tons of resources for free. 

Your local library is a treasure trove of books that you can borrow without spending a cent. There are also websites like Project Gutenberg that offer free classic novels. 

Did you know that you can even get paid to read books? Yes, you read that right, you can monetise your reading hobby. 

Reading is not only entertaining but also a great way to educate yourself. It’s a fantastic way to improve your knowledge, expand your vocabulary and boost your creativity. And it’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day. 

11. Learn a New Language

Learning a new language is a great brain exercise that improves memory and cognitive skills. It can be difficult but it’s super rewarding. 

You can communicate with people from different cultures and it’s also a great skill to have especially if you love travelling or want to boost career opportunities. 

Thanks to the internet learning a new language is now more accessible than ever and best of all you can do it for free. A great way to start is with Duolingo, a free app that you can use on your phone or computer. 

Whether you’ve always wanted to speak French, Spanish or Japanese, you can start practising for free from the comfort of your own home. 

Another way to learn a new language is by talking to native speakers. For example, if you have a friend, family member or co-worker who speaks a language you want to learn you can practice conversation skills with them. This hands-on approach helps you build fluency faster.

Try dedicating 10 – 15 minutes a day to language learning and you’ll be surprised at how much progress you can make in a short time. 

12. Learn to Cook

Dining out is becoming more and more expensive. So, why not learn how to enhance your cooking skills at home and become your own chef?

Cooking at home is not only a great way to save money but it’s also a fun and rewarding hobby. With a little creativity, you can turn simple inexpensive ingredients into delicious meals. 

Plus, when you cook at home you have more control over the ingredients and you can save even more by using cheaper cuts of meat and making your own sauce. 

There are endless free resources online, including YouTube cooking channels, recipe blogs, cookbooks and Pinterest, where you can learn new techniques and dishes. 

If you’re new to cooking start by trying out easy recipes using ingredients you already have in your pantry. Once you feel more comfortable you can experiment with cuisines or even try baking. 

Not only will you save money by avoiding takeout, but you’ll also have full control over what goes into your meals. So this hobby is both wallet and health-friendly. 

Active Cheap Hobbies

13. Walking or Hiking

Walking is one of the most budget-friendly ways to stay active. All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and you’re good to go. It’s a super accessible hobby which doesn’t require any equipment and anyone regardless of age or fitness level can try it. 

You can go for leisurely strolls around the neighbourhood or hike on a nature trail. Either way walking is a great way to connect with nature, get some vitamin D and stay fit while clearing your mind. 

If you’re lucky enough to live near parks or hiking spots you can explore new paths and enjoy some fresh air. If not, you can search on Google or check All Trails to see if there are trails near you. 

Walking also gives you the chance to unplug from technology and reconnect with yourself or a walking buddy. Plus, it’s a great way to set personal fitness goals without a gym membership. 

14. Running

Like walking, running is an affordable hobby that helps you stay in shape with minimal gear. All you need is a good pair of running shoes and you’re all set. 

I know running has become super popular and many runners opt for expensive gear, but you don’t need all the bells and whistles. Grab your shoes, pop in any pair of headphones (or none at all), and you’re set to go.

Running is a great way to build endurance, burn calories and improve your mental health through releasing endorphins. I personally love running as it clears my mind, lets me explore new areas, and leaves me feeling refreshed.

There are plenty of free apps that help track your progress and motivate you like Strava or Nike Run Club. Whether you’re running solo or with a group, it’s a great way to challenge yourself and stay fit for free. 

Once you’re consistent, you could even participate in charity races to push yourself further and give back to the community.

15. Yoga

Yoga is a relaxing way to stay active and centred without the need for a costly gym membership. It improves flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. So it’s ideal for those who enjoy low-intensity exercises.

It’s the perfect way to start or end your day and with so many free resources available there’s no need to pay for expensive classes. It’s a great free hobby that you can practice at your own pace which is perfect for any skill level. 

While some studios charge high fees, you can practice yoga at home using YouTube videos.

Here are some of my favourite YouTube channels for free yoga classes:

• Jess Yoga
• Yoga with Adriene
• Move with Nicole

All you need is a yoga mat, or even a towel, to get started.

Fun Cheap Hobbies

16. Board or Card Games

Board and card games are a great way to spend time with friends or family and they don’t have to be expensive. 

Chances are you already have a few classic games like Monopoly or Uno at home. But even if you don’t, many thrift stores sell board games for cheap or you can find free versions of popular games to play online. 

Or if you have a pack of playing cards you can play games like Blackjack. I play this with my niece and nephew all the time and they love it. 

Game nights are a fun and affordable way to bond with loved ones, spark some friendly competition and enjoy an evening of laughter without spending much. 

17. Volunteering

Volunteering is a unique hobby that’s not only free but also super fulfilling. It’s a great way to give back to your community, meet new people and learn new skills. 

You can choose to volunteer at a local food bank, animal shelter or community event. Either way, there are countless ways to make a difference in your community by donating your time instead of money. 

And the best part is volunteering often leads to personal growth and a sense of purpose so it’s one of the most rewarding hobbies out there. 

Just because it’s a free hobby doesn’t mean it’s low value. It’s a great way to invest your time for the greater good. Plus, you get to meet like-minded people who share your passion for giving back. 

18. Book Clubs

If you really love reading and want to take your hobby to another level consider joining a book club. 

Book clubs are the perfect combination of socialising and reading. You can either join an existing book club or if you enjoy organising you can start one with friends. You can rotate books or borrow from the library so you won’t have to buy a new book every time. 

Plus, discussing what you’ve read with others can give you a fresh perspective and deepen your understanding of the material. 

It’s a great way to build connections with people who share your love for books while also keeping your reading list fresh and exciting.

19. Knitting or Crocheting

If you enjoy hands-on projects, knitting or crocheting are relaxing hobbies that allow you to create beautiful scarves, blankets, or even clothing with minimal cost.

Yarn is relatively inexpensive so this hobby won’t break the bank and if you’re new to the craft you can find free tutorials online. 

These hobbies are also meditative and perfect for unwinding after a long busy day at work or with the kids. 

This cheap hobby will give you the added bonus of creating handmade items that you can gift to friends or even sell online to make some extra cash. 

20. Gardening

Growing your own food or plants can be incredibly satisfying. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune and it can even save you money. 

If you don’t have a lot of space, you can start with a few potted herbs on your balcony or windowsill. Basil, mint and parsley are great starter plants and having fresh herbs on hand will spice up your cooking. 

For those of you who are lucky enough to have a little more room, you can start a small vegetable garden. This is a great way to grow your own food and save money on groceries. Tomatoes, lettuce and peppers are easy to grow for beginners. 

Gardening also offers a sense of peace and satisfaction as you watch your plants grow and thrive. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air and spend time outdoors. 

If you’re unsure where to start there are plenty of resources online such as YouTube, and plant care guides. Your local library is also a great free resource for finding great gardening books. 

21. Play an Instrument

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to play an instrument, it’s never too late to start. Instruments like the guitar, piano and ukelele are budget-friendly and great opinions for beginners. 

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on an instrument. You can find second-hand instruments online or at thrift stores and garage sales. 

Once you’ve got your instrument it’s time to start practicing. There are tons of free online tutorials that can help you get started and with a little practice you’ll be playing your favourite tunes in no time. 

Learning to play an instrument is not only fun, but it sharpens your cognitive skills and brings a sense of accomplishment.  

Final Thoughts on Cheap Hobbies

Hobbies don’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, stay active or just relax there are so many affordable hobbies to explore. From drawing and knitting to running and volunteering, there is something for everyone.    

So try something new. You’ll have fun, learn something valuable and save money all at the same time. 

Which cheap hobby are you going to try? Let me know in the comments. 

This post was all about the best cheap hobbies.

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