Life can sometimes get overwhelming due to work, school, or everyday responsibilities at home. In moments like these, taking a short break to do something that sparks joy can make a big difference. But when you're trying to stick to a budget, finding enjoyable and meaningful activities may feel out of reach. The good news? They don’t have to be expensive.
Whether you’re a young professional focused on saving or a madiskarteng homemaker making every peso count, there are plenty of hobbies that let you unwind and be productive without spending much. Hobbies can be more than just pastimes; they can be stress relievers, creative outlets, or even side hustles in the making.
If you're looking to start a new hobby without breaking the bank, here are some free or low-cost ideas worth trying:
1. Cooking or Baking
Turn your kitchen into your creative playground. Whether you're whipping up simple ulam or experimenting with homemade baked goodies, cooking and baking can be both relaxing and rewarding. There are thousands of free recipe tutorials online, with many from Filipino creators using affordable ingredients you probably already have at home.
To make this hobby even more practical, consider pairing it with a money-saving tool like the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, a credit card from Maya. Since cooking often involves regular trips to the grocery, this card helps you stretch your budget further by giving up to 5% cashback at Landers, rewarding you for stocking up on pantry staples and ingredients. It also offers 2% cashback on dining and 1% on all other qualified purchases,* making it a smart companion not just in the kitchen but for your lifestyle in general.
Each one of the cashback points you earn is equivalent to PHP 1, and the points you accumulate can be used as a discount on your next purchase at Landers, helping you save on pantry staples and essentially paying you back just for doing what you already love. Plus, applying for this card is hassle-free, thanks to a streamlined application process. All you have to do is download the Maya app and follow these easy steps for a fully online credit card application:
- Go to the Cards tab and click Apply Now for the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card banner.
- Enter your Landers membership number.
- Choose a cardholder name.
- Then, choose a billing date.
- Complete your application and get your credit card details on the Maya app.
Credit card online application in the Philippines has never been this easy!
2. Learning a New Language
Another affordable hobby you can start is learning a new language, which opens up a world of opportunities—whether you’re preparing to work abroad, planning to travel, or simply want to engage your brain productively. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Tandem offer free lessons in a wide range of languages, including Korean, Japanese, and Spanish. With just your phone and a few minutes a day, you can gradually build your vocabulary and confidence.
3. Reading
As a hobby, reading doesn’t require much beyond curiosity and imagination. If you don’t have access to physical books, you can find thousands of free eBooks online. Additionally, reading helps you relax, expand your knowledge, and improve your communication skills. You can explore genres from romance to business or even dive into Filipino literature to rediscover classic stories from our own culture.
4. Practicing Origami
With nothing more than a few sheets of paper, origami can turn into a peaceful and satisfying hobby. It’s a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and patience. From simple shapes to intricate designs, you can find countless free tutorials online. What’s even better is that it’s an ideal bonding activity for families, especially with kids. You can also repurpose old scratch paper or notebooks, making it an eco-friendly choice too.
5. Crocheting
Crocheting has gained popularity among Filipinos, not just as a hobby but also as a creative way to earn extra income. With just a hook and some yarn—both of which can be bought affordably from online stores or market stalls—you can start creating anything from coasters to cozy wearables. Moreover, free patterns and video tutorials are widely available online, and local Facebook communities are welcoming spaces where beginners can get tips and share their work.
6. Doing Yoga or Stretching
Staying physically and mentally healthy doesn’t require a gym membership. With yoga, all you need is a flat space, a yoga mat, and a bit of time. There are free classes and routines available online that cater to every level, from total beginners to those looking for more advanced flows. You can also follow local fitness coaches who offer free live sessions on Facebook or Instagram. Moreover, practicing yoga improves flexibility, posture, and focus, and is a great way to unwind after a long day.
7. Dancing
Dancing is a fun, energy-boosting hobby that requires nothing but your favorite playlist or a few trending dance tutorials online. Whether you’re learning the latest TikTok choreography, doing freestyle moves, or joining online Zumba classes, it’s a great way to stay active without spending a cent. It’s also a mood-lifter, perfect for those days when you need a quick pick-me-up or want to break a sweat while having fun.
8. Gardening
Even if you live in a small space, you can still try your hand at gardening. Upcycle containers like ice cream tubs, empty bottles, or tin cans to plant herbs, vegetables, or ornamental plants. Start with low-maintenance greens like basil, pechay, or kamote tops. Not only is it a therapeutic way to connect with nature, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of seeing something you nurtured grow—plus, it can even contribute to your kitchen if you grow edible plants.
You don’t need to spend a lot to live a life filled with joy, purpose, and creativity. With just a little time and resourcefulness, you can explore hobbies that bring happiness without hurting your wallet. There’s also something out there that fits your lifestyle, whether you want to relax, learn, create, or move. So go ahead—pick one (or a few) and start today.
*Transactions that don’t qualify include: cash in, cash advance, quasi cash purchases, casinos and gambling, fuel, supermarket, pharmaceuticals, utilities, telco, and government.
