5 Super-Quick Ways to Save Money This Weekend

🔎 Disclosure: Heads up, babe: some links here are affiliate links, which means you might throw a tiny commission my way if you buy (zero extra cost to you). Only things you’d actually use and love get shared on this site.

1. Unplug and Reset Your Spending with a No-Buy Weekend

You know those weekends where one “quick Target trip” somehow turns into $120?

Yeah, this weekend, that stops.

A no-buy weekend isn’t punishment. It’s a short money detox that helps you see how often you spend out of habit instead of need.

Try these to make it easier (and fun):

  • Plan activities that don’t involve spending, like a movie marathon, board games, or a walk at sunset.
  • Delete shopping apps from your phone temporarily to avoid temptation.
  • Prep meals ahead of time, so you’re not “accidentally” ordering pizza.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Challenge yourself to go 48 hours without spending a dollar. no coffee runs, no Amazon, nothing. and see how freeing it feels.

Make It Easy: Consider a magnetic meal planner board to plan meals and stay on track without last-minute food runs.


2. Switch to Free Weekend Entertainment Options

You don’t need to spend money to have fun. seriously.

Between parks, free museum days, and local festivals, there’s always something cheap (or free) to enjoy if you just look for it.

Here are some ideas to keep your weekend budget happy:

  • Search “free events near me”. You’ll be shocked at what pops up.
  • Use your local library for free books, movies, and even passes to museums.
  • Host a potluck instead of going out. same fun, less cash burned.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Check your city’s event calendar on Friday night and pick two free things to do before Monday.

Make It Easy: Grab a portable picnic blanket so you’re always ready for a park day or outdoor concert.


3. Clean Out Closets and Sell What You Don’t Need

You’re sitting on a goldmine of forgotten stuff. clothes, gadgets, decor.

And the best part? Decluttering makes your home feel calmer while padding your wallet.

Here’s how to turn junk into cash fast:

  • Sell clothes online on apps like Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace.
  • Bundle items (like old books or toys) for quicker sales.
  • Take good photos in natural light. People love clear, bright listings.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Set a timer for 30 minutes, fill one box with stuff to sell, and post it online before dinner.

Make It Easy: Use a foldable photography light box to make your listings look professional and stand out.


4. Compare Your Monthly Subscriptions for Better Rates

Streaming, gym, meal kits. These little “harmless” charges love hiding in your bank account.

If you haven’t checked your subscriptions lately, you might be paying for stuff you forgot even existed.

Here’s what to do:

  • List every subscription you currently have (yes, all of them).
  • Cancel or downgrade the ones you barely use.
  • Negotiate lower rates for essentials like internet or phone plans.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Open your bank statement, circle every subscription charge, and cancel one today. You’ll thank yourself next month.

Make It Easy: Keep a small budgeting notebook to track recurring payments and highlight waste.


5. Wash and Detail Your Car at Home Instead of Paying

You know that $30 “quick” car wash? You can do it better and cheaper, at home.

Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about making your car shine yourself.

Here’s what you’ll need to make it worth your time:

  • Microfiber towels for a spotless, streak-free finish.
  • All-purpose cleaner for seats, dashboards, and windows.
  • DIY air freshener using baking soda and essential oils.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Set aside one hour, grab a bucket, and make your driveway your new car spa.

Make It Easy: Get a high-pressure hose attachment to make washing quicker and more fun.


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Lily Thompson

Hey, I'm Lily! I'm a mom who's really good at two things: stretching a dollar and talking about stretching a dollar. I created Money Vice after one too many grocery trips where I watched my total climb and thought, "There's gotta be a better way." Spoiler: there is. Think of me as your money-savvy friend who's always got a tip (and coffee in hand).