Main image: Nataliya Vaitkevich, Pexels
We all probably have to spend less time doing certain things, and more time doing the things that are better for us. Perhaps a TV show or series is keeping you on the couch, or that action computer game keeps you inside. Sunshine and fresh air are good for us! You might even be on a budget keeping you from getting out more, but money should not keep you from enjoying life and starting new hobbies.
We already covered some hobbies to get you closer to nature in this article but limited that article to a few options. This article focuses on hobbies you can enjoy outside without breaking the bank. They are all affordable outdoor hobbies, ideal to get you moving, allowing you to inhale fresh air and get that serotonin boost. Here are a few cheap hobby ideas guaranteed to get you outside.
Plant propagation

Want to start a garden without breaking the bank? Plant propagation is an affordable and gratifying hobby that lets you nurture nature from the ground up. It is so easy to walk into the nursery and pick up plants ready to stick into the soil. But even more affordable and satisfying is growing your own from scratch.
By growing your garden or propagating plants from seeds and cuttings, you can witness the magic of life unfolding around you. It is a pocket-friendly option to test whether you have a green thumb, harvest fresh produce, and revel in nature’s beauty without splurging unnecessarily.
You can grow various veggies and herbs from kitchen scraps without much effort. These include tomatoes, chillies and peppers, lettuce, spring onions, mint, basil and more.
Urban Exploration
When was the last time you walked in your neighbourhood or explored the city? This is a budget-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors as there is no entrance fee. Explore, forgotten areas and hidden gems in urban areas to uncover the history and stories behind these intriguing locations. Visit your local museums to learn about hidden gems. It might even prompt you to see things you never knew existed. Just be sure to respect private property and stay safe while exploring.
Explore city parks
Being outdoors can be an inexpensive outdoor hobby. Explore local parks and green spaces to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Most of these are affordable and only charge a small entry fee, or they are the perfect free outdoor activity to share with friends and family. Take leisurely walks, picnic, or simply relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the urban landscape.

Go on nursery expeditions
Do you always go to the same nursery? Do you know how many there are within the boundaries of your city or town? Nursery expeditions do not mean spending tons of money. It can also be a budget way to get out of the house and just look at the different plant species you can grow in your garden. This will also help as you will discover the cheapest options as prices can vary wildly between nurseries. The larger nurseries will have plenty of space to explore and you can get a few hours of fresh air without spending any money, making it a cheap hobby that will get you outside.
Nature journaling
A fun outdoor activity, if you are on a budget, is slowing down and documenting what you see around you in nature. Become more aware of your surroundings. Slow down, and look around you. Combine art and observation by keeping a nature journal to record your outdoor experiences, observations, sketches, and thoughts. It’s a creative and reflective practice that encourages mindfulness and appreciation for nature. It is budget-friendly because you need a notebook and a pen or pencil. The other extras are up to you.
Rock collecting

Are you the type that always looks down when you walk, spotting the most interesting rocks? In America, collecting rocks has a name: rockhounding. This is a free hobby that won’t cost you anything and you can pick up rocks as far as you go. Collect rocks, minerals, and gemstones in outdoor locations such as beaches, riverbeds, or rocky outcrops. It’s a fascinating hobby that allows you to learn about geology and earth science while enjoying the great outdoors. Just be careful not to remove anything from protected areas as it is technically illegal.
Foraging
Foraging is a fascinating hobby and another budget-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors. It is not as popular in South Africa as overseas due to the availability of public land, but it is still doable. Join local foraging groups or do some research to learn about safe and sustainable foraging practices in your area. You can forage for wild edible plants, mushrooms, berries, or even seaweed along coastlines, as long as you are certain what is edible.

Outdoor fitness classes
Join outdoor fitness classes or boot camps held in parks or public spaces. Look for low-cost fitness classes such as yoga, pilates, or group workouts. These will provide an opportunity to exercise outdoors and socialise with others. It could be an inexpensive hobby for any nature lover joining a weekly or monthly class.

Dine outdoors
Pick an area and enjoy breakfast or dinner in the fresh outdoor air if you have some garden space. Pack a picnic basket with your favourite snacks and beverages, or explore local food trucks and vendors to savour delicious eats in the open air. It does not have to cost much. Alternatively, take it a step further. Don’t go to your local shopping centre when you venture out for breakfast or lunch. Look for restaurants and cafes with gardens where you can enjoy outdoor meals.

Community projects
Want to make a difference in your local community and get outside more without breaking the bank? Volunteer with local environmental organisations or community groups to participate in clean-up initiatives, tree-planting events, or urban beautification projects. Contribute to making your city cleaner, greener, and more livable for everyone. This can extend beyond just the city. Many nature reserves and parks have volunteer organisations assisting with projects, so you could consider volunteering as a great outdoor activity on a budget.
Join your local parkrun
Parkrun is an excellent option to get outside, even on a budget. It is an inexpensive outdoor hobby, because well, it won’t cost you a cent. Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5-kilometre event (run or walk) held in parks and open spaces worldwide, including many urban areas.
The affordable outdoor hobbies highlighted above are a drop in the ocean. Experiencing the great outdoors does not have to come at a premium. By embracing low-cost options, it is possible to cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature through an affordable hobby while nourishing physical and mental well-being.
Do you practice any affordable hobbies that allow you more time in nature? We would love to hear about them. Share them with us in the comments.
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