Going out with your girls doesn’t have to mean spending a big chunk of your paycheck on overpriced cocktails all over town, sitting in crowded bars.
Whether you’re a recent graduate on a strict budget, or are just trying to save money, read on for proof that you can have a girls’ night without it being cheap or boring.
All of these are ideas are free or low-cost. They are also easy to plan and actually fun! You don’t have to downgrade the level of fun you’re having just because you aren’t spending money. There are separated by category: indoor activities, outdoor activities, and activities that work both indoors and outdoors.
Indoor activities
- Vision Board Night
Think about all of your goals for the next month or year. Categories can include health, self-care, personal development, religion & spirituality, relationships, academic, career, financial, lifestyle, environment, experiences, and hobbies.
Use Pinterest and other media websites to choose photos and phrases that align with your goals. You can print out the images or keep them online in one board. Then, everyone takes turns sharing their vision board with the group, discussing their goals and how they realistically plan to reach them.
Not only is this a wholesome way to spend an evening with friends, but it is also motivating. Seeing your friends goals can inspire you to to plan for the next month or year, and make the future feel more intentional.
- Pinterest Board Party
Have everyone choose their own category, such as dream homes, cars, hobbies, outfits, future trips, food, or even “life in 5 years”. Each person builds their board for their category, then shares it with the rest of the group.
Alternatively, everyone can build a board on the same category and discuss. It’s interesting to notice similarities, differences, and random details you might not have known about a close friend.
- Closet Swap Out
Everyone brings clothes they no longer wear and “shops” each other’s items. Organize everything like a mini boutique and designate a “fitting room” nearby.
I have found some really great pieces this way. They were pieces I probably never would have picked out for myself, but ended up loving! It is also sustainable, costs nothing, and much more fun than decluttering by yourself!
- Make-up & Skincare Swap Out
Everyone brings new or unused makeup or skincare that they do not plan on keeping. Same as above – lay everything out by type of product, and let everyone browse and swap.
I personally haven’t tried this, but I definitely have products sitting in bags that I have never used and would rather give to friends than toss away.
- Book Swap Out
Everyone brings books they have already read or want to donate and “shops” each other’s books. I think this is a great way to discover new reads and recommend books to friends.
The best part is you will get book recommendations from friends who know your preferences and can you an honest review before swapping books.
- Fridge & Pantry Swap Out
Everyone brings unopened and unexpired food items they do not want or need from their fridges and pantries. Lay everything out and everyone “shops” what they will actually eat or cook.
This is helpful for clearing out impulse buys and it is surprisingly satisfying while cutting down on food waste.
- DIY Home Mani-Pedi Night
With a little bit of creativity, you can turn your space into a whole spa night with your friends without spending money. Everyone can bring items they already own – nail supplies and polishes, hair and face masks, candles and tea – the possibilities are endless.
Use YouTube tutorial videos for complete manicures, pedicures, natural face masks, or DIY facials at home. Self-care is necessary and relaxing, and much more affordable than going out!
- Thriller Bingo Night
Create bingo cards filled with popular thriller movie tropes (such as jump scares, evil characters, haunted homes, etc.). Then, watch movies and play along.
- Friendship Insiders Game Night
Write a list of all of your friend group’s inside jokes and funny moments. Upload them into an app like Headbands. Have each friend take turns to try to guess the insiders in under a minute.
It is chaotic, funny, and guaranteed to bring up old stories you haven’t heard in a while.
- Personality Test Night
Each person takes personality tests (such as Enneagram, attachment style, love languages, or Myers-Briggs, etc.). Then discuss the results! You might learn something new about your closest friends, and vice versa.
It is surprisingly insightful and bound to spark up interesting conversations.
- Music Video Night
Everyone queues up new or old music videos they love or want to share. Watch them together and talk about the songs, artists, or just random fun facts.
This is a great way to discover new music and get a better idea of your friends’ music taste.
- Dinner Night
Try cooking a new recipe with ingredients you already have. SuperCook keeps track of your ingredients and provides recipe ideas!
This helps you use what you already own instead of ordering food delivery.
Outdoor activities
- Golden Hour Photo Shoot
Put on cute outfits, watch a video on how to pose and work with outdoor lighting, then head outside to take photos and videos during the sunset.
It’s a great way to exercise creativity, and you’ll end up with fresh pics and memories.
- Scenic Hike
Take a drive to a scenic walking or hiking trail. Take a relaxed walk. Ensure there it is a well-lit area and focus on conversation and connection rather than a destination or speed.
It’s simple, not overstimulating, and perfect for catching up. Plus, it’s always great to get some steps in!
- Free Workout Class
Go on the Mindbody app or online to find free or donation-based workout classes in your local area. You’d be surprised at the number of free classes available, especially if you live in a big city. Fitness studios and clubs offer free first classes to attract new members.
You get time with your friends, physical activity, and a new experience, all without spending or committing to a membership.
- YouTube Workouts
Find a good workout video and head to a local park or beach for a free workout session with friends.
Yoga, mat Pilates, dance, and even tai chi works. It feels less intimidating than going to a fitness class on your own.
- Firepit Night
If you or any of your friends have a firepit, gather round with blankets, snacks and drinks. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the warmth of the fire.
It’s cozy, not overstimulating, and doesn’t require too much planning.
Activities for Indoors OR Outdoors
- Guided Journaling Night
Use prompts from Pinterest or Google focused on goals, money, relationships, or personal growth. Everyone can sit and journal quietly. Make it a “share-by-choice” moment if you wish.
It is reflective without being too heavy and works well in any setting.
- Manifestation & Affirmation Night
Write positive affirmations, visualize goals, and hype each other up. You can light candles, play music, and pop open a bottle of wine.
- Podcast Night
Listen to a podcast episode together and discuss it like you would a book at a book club. Topics can range from serial killer stories, relationships, and careers to pop culture, money, or manifestation.
- Admin Night
Have some subscriptions to cancel? Need to purchase some personal care items? Use this night to accomplish all the “administrative” tasks you’ve been meaning to, but haven’t gotten around to yet.
Turn typically boring tasks into a social event with some cocktails. Update your resume and send it to your friend to review. It is productive, satisfying, and easier than doing it alone.
Wrap up
Thank you so much for reading my article! Check out the rest of the blog for more personal finance guides, tips, and more!