Tips for Going Out on a Budget

If you’re saving, you’re probably very aware of what you’re spending, so you might decide to opt out of potentially expensive nights out with friends or family.

You don’t have to deprive yourself of fun social activities, meals, nights out, and even getaways. As you move closer towards your saving target, you can absolutely enjoy a healthy social life – it’s simply a matter of doing some extra planning, making smart choices and opting for alternatives where possible. Our list of tips will help ensure you still enjoy life while saving the cash…

Research Cheap Cultural Events

Daytime activities don’t have to cost the earth. Most galleries, museums and archaeological sites are free to enter, and you’ll easily pass away an afternoon exploring all they have to offer. In Dublin for example, there’s the National Gallery, the Natural History Museum and the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Think like a tourist: if you were visiting a new city, what would you like to see and do? Oftentimes, we don’t appreciate the wealth of culture on our own doorsteps! If you fancy catching a movie meanwhile, do some research first; lots of cinemas offer discounted tickets on certain days. Some offer memberships too, so you can see as many movies as you like for a set monthly rate – great for film fans.

Make Your Own Fun

If you feel you’re missing out on quality time with friends, why not organise an alternative get-together in one of your houses? If the sun’s shining, why not take the party outside? Ireland’s cities and towns are home to plenty of parks and green spaces. Get the gang together, pack a homemade picnic, and bring along the makings of a sports day – football, frisbee, tennis racquets, hula hoops. Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy!

Alternative Dining Options

Saving shouldn’t mean you miss out on your favourite foods. Again, it’s all about simple swaps. Lots of restaurants offer a BYOB option, so you can bring along a bottle of wine, making a huge saving in the process. Another option is a pot luck; among your group of friends, take turns hosting dinners in your homes, with everyone bringing along their favourite dish. If you each pick up a cocktail ingredient too, you can enjoy a few drinks with your meal for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant.

Explore midweek getaway options

If you’re saving, you’ve probably decided against jet-setting away for a two-week holiday in the sun. But that shouldn’t mean you have to miss out on a break altogether. Why not opt for a staycation? Take advantage of coupon sites and deals where you can or get in touch with hotels directly and negotiate a last-minute price

See what options are available for you to better plan your finances.

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.