41 Free Things to Do When You’re Totally Broke (2026)
Trying to make the most of free things when totally? You are in the right place. Below we break it down in plain English, with practical tips you can actually use.
Key Takeaways
- 41 Free Things to Do When You’re Totally Broke There are two possible reasons why you would be on the lookout for free things to do.
- You are either saving money to put toward an important goal, or simply have no extra money to spare.
- Written by Trinity Owen Last Updated: April 29, 2024 Reviewed by Jana Lynch Home Money Management Save Money Some of the links on DollarSpro...
There are two possible reasons why you would be on the lookout for free things to do. You are either saving money to put toward an key goal, or simply have no extra money to spare.
Written by Trinity Owen Last Updated: April 29, 2024 Reviewed by Jana LynchSome of the links on DollarSprout point to products or services from partners we trust. If you choose to make a purchase through one, we may earn a commission, which supports the ongoing maintenance and improvement of our site at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
There are three possible reasons why you would be on the lookout for free things to do.
You are either frugal, saving money to put toward an key goal, or simply have no extra money to spare.
Whichever the reason, setting a goal to find things to do that don’t cost money is admirable. Don’t give in to the pressure of today’s spend-into-oblivion society.
When doubt creeps in, refer to this list of free things to do with friends, family, or alone as a reminder that it is possible to crush boredom and still stay frugal.
Since finding free and affordable things to do is not part of the typical American Dream, this list focuses on 41 simple, smart, and fun ideas to pass the time.
Fun Things to Do for Free
Trying to figure out what to do this weekend without breaking the bank? These hobbies and excursions are free and location independent.
1. Digital scavenger hunt
Download the Geocaching app and start searching for special treasures all around the neighborhood. It’s something free to do that would be exciting for either an adventurous individual or a group of people.
(It’s also a excellent team-building or ice-breaking activity for new employees.)
2. Visit a free museum
Check with the local museums to see if they offer free visits on specific days. Plan a day trip based on that museum’s schedule.
3. Visit the library
There’s nothing cozier than reading a new book while nestled in the corner of a quiet library. With local libraries offering books on every topic from real estate to health and fitness, it is possible to learn nearly anything for free.
4. Karaoke at night
Plan a karaoke night at home, or better yet, join a local event. You don’t have to be particularly talented to participate, but you do need to get out of your comfort zone to have fun with it.
5. Prank incoming sales calls
The number of incoming sales and scam calls is rising. Why not flip the tables, record it, and turn the conversation around on the scammer for a good laugh?
6. Go window shopping
People who enjoy shopping but don’t have the disposable income to do so right now can still get out for a little window-shopping. Instead of spending money, make a running wish list that you can refer to the next time you have some cash to burn.
7. Visit local Facebook groups and connect with the community
Nearly every town has a Facebook group. If yours doesn’t, consider starting one. Keep an eye on the local social media for any free, local events.
8. Drive around the nearest countryside with the kids
Get out of the city and visit the nearest countryside for some free sightseeing. You don’t have to go far or burn unnecessary gas to enjoy some new sights.
Related: How to Get Free Amazon Gift Cards
Fun Side Hustles That Don’t Cost Anything to Start
Earning money can be just as exciting as spending it. It’s all dependent on perspective. If money is tight, give these side gigs a try.
9. Fill out surveys for money
While relaxing and searching for free things to do, consider completing surveys for a little extra cash. While filling out paid surveys isn’t a get-rich-quick gig by any means, it is definitely possible to earn some money by sharing your opinions. Swagbucks and Survey Junkie are two of the best paid online survey sites available.
Swagbucks is by far the biggest online survey brand that allows users to rack up reward points.
In addition to taking surveys, use this platform to get paid to watch videos, search the web, and shop online. Then cash in the reward points for gift cards or PayPal credit. New members will also receive a $10 sign-up bonus.
The Survey Junkie platform is also simple and straightforward to use. Each completed survey is worth a predetermined number of points; 1,000 points earns $10, which is paid via PayPal. Numerous of the surveys are worth 100-to-200 points, so it shouldn’t take long to reach the payout minimum.
10. Drive for cash
Become an Uber Eats or Lyft driver to start earning decent money driving clients to their appointments and events. Not only is it free to drive around the city, but it’s also possible to score some excellent cash opportunities along the way.
Although both companies are reputable, Lyft offers a substantial bonus for new drivers, who are guaranteed to receive $1,000 if they give at least 125 rides during their first 30 days.
Related: 13 Ways to Make Money Delivering Food and Packages
11. Play games for money
If you already enjoy playing to pass the time, why not actually make money playing games while you’re at it?
Free websites like InboxDollars and Swagbucks pay people to play games and complete simple online tasks. Get a $5 signup bonus with InboxDollars and start completing simple surveys and offers, or playing games. And earn more bonuses by referring friends to join.
12. Sell your old electronics for quick cash
Got an old phone or tablet collecting dust in a drawer? You might be sitting on an simple payout. Gazelle lets you sell used electronics online without the headache of meeting up with buyers or creating listings.
Just answer a few questions about your device, get an instant quote, and ship it for free. If everything checks out, you’ll get paid via PayPal, check, or Amazon gift card. It’s a low-effort way to declutter and put some extra cash in your pocket.
13. Spend time with animals
Hanging out with animals is a heart-warming thing to do - even for free. But why not make some money doing it? List dog walking or pet sitting services on Rover to get started.
Rover, a dog-walking and pet-sitting website, is always looking for qualified candidates. With 30-minute walks in the $10-$30 range, this is one of the better ways to get free money doing something that is already enjoyable.
14. Watch video ads
Watching ads isn’t going to pay the bills, but it does offer something productive to do in your spare time.
Sign up for Swagbucks to allow your phones, tablets, or laptops to play video ads in the background while you are working or browsing the Web. You won’t get rich, but it is totally free and an simple way to make a few extra bucks each month.
15. Become a social media influencer
While it’s not an simple moneymaker to jump into, being a social media influencer is becoming all the rage.
Build your online community with the help of friends and family. Influencers with a decent following are frequently paid by brands to promote their products. At the very
Final Thoughts
The bottom line: a little research on free things when totally goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is one click away.
Originally published at dollarsprout.com.
Trinity Owen
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