We all know that summer can come with a hefty price tag – holidays, weddings, bottomless brunches, and all those spontaneous plans that sneak up on your bank account. But the good news? Summer fun doesn’t have to cost a thing. A low spend weekend can still feel full of magic. Whether you’re on a budgeting kick, saving for something special, or just want to slow down and savour the season, here’s your go-to guide for a low spend weekend (or no-spend) all about making the most of what you already have.
Why a Low Spend Weekend Can Be the Best Kind of Self-Care
A low spend weekend isn’t about missing out – it’s about tuning in. To your space, your people, your creativity, and your peace of mind.
This isn’t about restriction or going without – it’s about normalising underconsumption, getting creative, reconnecting and rediscovering the small things that bring real joy, and finding fun in the little things. Think cosy rituals, nostalgic hobbies, and the quiet satisfaction of doing something just for you.
Outdoorsy Moments (That Don’t Cost a Penny)
Have a picnic in your local park
Pack up your favourite snacks, a blanket, and your current read. Bonus points if you bring homemade lemonade or forage a few flowers on the way.
Go on a colour walk
Choose a colour and set off on a walk, trying to spot as many things in that shade as possible. It sounds silly, but it’s a lovely mindfulness exercise that’ll have you noticing the world with fresh eyes.
Watch the sunrise
Set an early alarm, grab a thermos of coffee or tea, and head to a peaceful spot. There’s something sacred about being awake when the world is still yawning. The same can be done for sunsets if you aren’t such an early bird.
Be a tourist in your own town
Visit that museum you’ve never stepped inside. Walk a different route to the shops. Try a cafe you usually walk past. It’s easy to overlook the beauty close to home.
Join a local run club or yoga in the park
Many cities (Leeds included!) offer free or donation-based classes. I’ve recently joined some running clubs and park runs and it is so much fun and completely free. If not, lace up your trainers and do your own version – even a walk counts.
Low Spend Weekend At-Home – Cosy Vibes
Host a low spend weekend paint-and-sip night at home
Grab some cheap canvases or scrap paper, open a bottle of whatever’s in the cupboard, pop on a playlist, and let your inner artist out. Invite friends or make it a solo date.
Start a jigsaw puzzle or sudoku challenge
Get something second-hand or swap with a friend. It’s strangely meditative and a great way to unplug.
Finally sort your camera roll
You know those 36 screenshots of the same dinner plate or the five blurry selfies from 2018? It’s time. Declutter your digital life and maybe even create a little photo album while you’re at it.
Get Crafty With Handmade Moments – Make a card from scratch for someone you love
There’s something beautifully nostalgic about giving (or receiving) a handmade card. It’s thoughtful, personal, and totally budget-friendly for a low spend weekend. Whether it’s for a birthday, thank you note, or just a “thinking of you” moment, taking the time to craft something by hand adds a little extra magic.
If you need inspiration, try this Pressed Flower Card Tutorial – it’s a lovely way to use dried flowers and bits from your garden or allotment, and the results are frame-worthy. This is also a gorgeous rainy day activity, especially with a cup of tea and a good playlist in the background.
Host a potluck game night
Everyone brings a dish and a game. You bring the fairy lights, snacks, and a playlist. Low effort, a low spend weekend for those you love, high fun.
Rearrange a corner of your home
Even small tweaks can make your space feel fresh. Move a plant, restyle a shelf, or switch up your bedding. It can change your whole mood.
Slow & Intentional Moments
Check out a book from your local library
Libraries are treasure troves – and completely free. While you’re there, see if they’re hosting any events or workshops. There are far more free little libraries in my area that are great to have a look in on my walks.
Read at a coffee shop (and leave your phone in your bag) – perfect low spend weekend idea
People-watch, eavesdrop on some quirky conversations, and get completely lost in a story. Find a nice bench and bring your own coffee in a reuable flask to make this a completely free activity that reduces your screen time.
Start a summer journal
It doesn’t need to be daily or deep. Jot down one highlight per day or sketch a memory. Future-you will love it. Tiktok has some amazing creators sharing monthy embroidery journals – maybe something creative like this might be more your style?
Create your own personal recipe book
Start collecting those go-to meals you make on repeat. Add doodles, notes, or little stories behind each one.
Write a letter and actually post it
Old-school post feels like magic. Write to a friend, your gran, or even your future self.
Self-Care, But Fun
Curate mini playlists for your day
One for your morning coffee, one for walking the dog, one for winding down. Music can shape your day more than you think and is such a simple low spend weekend activity.
Use the ‘nice’ thing you’ve been saving
That fancy bath bomb, your posh tea bags, the perfume you reserve for ‘occasions’ – use them. Today is the occasion.
Try a morning or evening routine upgrade
Light a candle. Do a face mask. Read instead of scrolling. Eat a meal outside. Forage on a dog walk. It doesn’t have to be a full overhaul – just a gentle tweak to romanisise your life and make it feel more ‘you’.
Rewatch a nostalgic summer film
Think The Parent Trap, Mamma Mia, Dirty Dancing or anything from your teen years that gives you that ‘lazy summer holiday’ feel.
Dance around your house just because
Play something loud and silly and have a kitchen disco. A dance party is the best free therapy going.
Bonus: Free Ways to Refresh Your Wardrobe
If your wardrobe feels stale, it doesn’t mean you need to shop.
Try this on your Low Spend Weekend instead:
- Pull out pieces you haven’t worn in ages and find new ways to style them
- Scroll through your saved Instagram or Pinterest boards for outfit inspiration
- Host a clothing swap with friends
- Upcycle something with dye, embroidery or a quick hem. There are plenty of free natural dyes that create soft new colours for your old garment upcycles.
You might fall back in love with clothes you already own.
Final Thoughts
A low spend weekend doesn’t mean low-fun. In fact, some of the best moments come from slowing down, doing something with your hands, or connecting with people you love. Let this be your reminder that a slower, simpler low spend weekend can still feel joyful, full, and very you. Being in control of your budget can feel so much better than any expensive night out.
What are your favourite ways to enjoy a low-cost weekend? Pop them in the comments or tag me over on Instagram @mary.strikeapose – I’d love to see what you get up to.
