2021 Update: #NoBuyJuly is underway, and you can join us! Click here to sign up and get all the details straight to your inbox.
July is in full swing, and so is #NoBuyJuly! Yes, the summer savings challenge is back for 2020, helping us get on track with our money goals despite everything going on in the world. And this year, we’re upping the ante! Join our free #NoBuyJuly Challenge Community on Facebook for accountability, support, and the chance to win in our celebratory prize draw!
I know that it might seem like a bit of a bummer not to be spending money right now, especially as some areas start reopening. Beyond our usual reasons why now is the perfect time for a no spend month, the pandemic added a bit more pressure on our pocketbooks as well. But that doesn’t mean #NoBuyJuly has to be no fun! And I don’t just mean vegging out in front of Netflix. Today I’m sharing 10 fun, free, and socially distant activities you can enjoy this #NoBuyJuly.
Go for a Hike
Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m a hiking fiend! My husband and I love getting out on the trails every weekend. Your access to prime hiking locations will obviously depend on where you live, but the benefits of exercise, sunshine, and beautiful views can’t be beat! Just be sure to keep a safe distance from other hikers and avoid congregating at busy lookouts.
Listen to Free Audiobooks
Did you know that most libraries these days offer free audiobook subscriptions? This is a great alternative to a paid membership such as Audible, if you don’t mind a reduced catalogue. For example, my local library offers five free audiobooks per month through Hoopla. Head to your municipal library’s website for all the details!
Backyard (or Living Room) Picnic
This is probably the hokiest suggestion on the list, but might end up being your favourite #NoBuyJuly memory! Lay out a blanket, turn on a summery playlist, fill a basket with some finger foods and a bottle of a refreshing beverage of your choice. Bonus points if you post a pic of your vibey home picnic on IG with #NoBuyJuly!
Online Games with Friends
My nerdiness is about to show here, but…my husband DMs a game of Dungeons & Dragons for me and my friends. And we recently discovered that playing online was actually super convenient compared to all the prep for an in-person session. There’s built-in video chat and everything! If D&D isn’t your scene (which, like, I get it), you’ll find tons of free, multiplayer games and apps out there, ranging from Houseparty to Runescape (throwback, right…? Just me?)
Gardening (with a Podcast)
Whether you have a full backyard, a balcony, or even just a windowsill, a thriving garden of any size is an amazing source of joy. I love popping in some headphones and turning on a podcast while I’m gardening as well. Starting from scratch without spending a dime? Check out this EatingWell article about gardening with food scraps! Cardboard egg cartons serve as perfect little starter pots when you’re planting from seed.
Try Out a Fitness Class
Especially with COVID-19 lockdowns driving up demand, the quantity and variety of free fitness classes online is INSANE. What you try is up to you! Kickboxing, yoga, weightlifting, dance… The list goes on! YouTube is a great place to start, but there are also lots of specialized sites with free and premium content. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for Instagram Live workouts hosted by studios closed due to the pandemic – show them some love and join in the fun!
Host an All-Out Movie Night
Yes, I know I said no Netflix. But make this an event! Pop the popcorn, make some cocktails or a special meal, and pick the movie in advance. Don’t spend the evening scrolling through all the titles, just to pick The Office for the millionth time!
Learn a New Skill
Still got a bit of stamina left in you after three months in lockdown? Time to expand your skill set! There are many amazing resources to learn new hobbies and skills. If you’re at a loss, check out Codecademy, YouTube tutorials, Duolingo (if you can stand the creepy owl), or even a Skillshare free trial.
Shop Your Closet
For some of you, refraining from shopping for clothing can be the toughest part of #NoBuyJuly. But I’ll bet that there are some items in your current wardrobe that you’ve completely forgotten about. I know because I’ve done it myself! This activity is all about going through your entire closet and finding those hidden gems to wear and show off once again. Be sure to tag me in your #ShopYourCloset #OOTD on social media!
Create Your Bucket List or Vision Board
The pandemic unfortunately put many people’s dreams on hold, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop dreaming. Use this time to create a high-vibe, aspirational vision board! Or you can make it a bucket list, if collages aren’t really your scene. If you don’t have physical magazines or a printer in your home, you can simply head to Canva and create a digital vision board instead. Find images representing your desires from across the internet, and go crazy!
What fun, free, and socially distant activities will you enjoy during #NoBuyJuly? Share yours in the comments or on Instagram (tag @simpleharmonic.co and #NoBuyJuly for a reshare)! And don’t forget to join us in the free Challenge Community on Facebook!
