How To Satisfy Your Wanderlust When You’re Broke AF

The older you get, the more responsibilities you have and the harder it is to just pack a bag and get out there and see the world. You’ve got a career, bills to pay, and money is tight as hell. But just because you’re broke AF doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to indulge your wanderlust. Sure, you may not have the cash to go backpacking through Europe or to stay in an exotic St. Barth’s resort, but you can still feel like you’re experiencing the big wide world.

  1. Hit up a museum. Even if you’re not a museum person, this is a great way to get out and explore the unknown. It’s not all about ancient paintings or sculpture, either. Do a quick Google search to see what museums are in your area, and you’d probably be shocked at the strange and fascinating ones that exist. What better way to explore and learn about other art, cultures and history? Plus, they’re often free!
  2. Go local. Are there places in your county or state that you’ve always been meaning to check out, but haven’t gotten around to? If so, why not go there now? You’ll develop a greater appreciation for where you live and will also get to see and experience something brand new.
  3. Find your nearest sand and sea. Even if you don’t live near a proper beach, look for the closest lake, river or stream and plan to spend a day there. You can pack yourself a lunch, bring a book, and bask in the fresh air. If you close your eyes, you can probably even pretend you’re somewhere way  more exotic.
  4. Go to a concert. There are free concerts going on — maybe it’s not Justin Bieber or Beyonce, but checking out a local indie rock band at the bar or attending a symphony rehearsal are all eye-opening experiences that will seriously expand your horizons.
  5. Try some new grub. Get your friends together, get in the car, and drive to that Korean BBQ joint, French bistro or sushi place you’ve always wanted to try. The more authentic the experience, the better — and who doesn’t love good food?
  6. Get a new hobby. Find out where there are golf lessons, where you can go zip-lining, where you can learn to knit, where you can take a kickboxing class… you get the picture. If you’ve ever been interested in trying a new hobby but haven’t ever gone for it, now’s the time! It could take you out of your hometown and out of your comfort zone, too.
  7. Go on a road trip. If you can manage to find a cheap place to stay or even just go for the day, get your friends on-board. Plan an afternoon out to the vineyards, a kayak session on a far off lake, go skiing at a beautiful mountain, try hiking on some preserve with wild animals. You won’t feel like you’re home, that’s for sure.
  8. Keep an eye out for deals. You may not have a ton of money to take off on constant vacations, but you can still make the occasional one work. Set up alerts on discount travel sites like Kayak or Expedia for locations you really want to visit, and save your pennies so that when a good deal comes up, you’re ready to book.
Bolde has been a source of dating and relationship advice for single women around the world since 2014. We combine scientific data, experiential wisdom, and personal anecdotes to provide help and encouragement to those frustrated by the journey to find love. Follow us on Instagram @bolde_media or on Facebook @BoldeMedia
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