Budget-friendly fall activities for students

Fall is here and that doesn’t mean we have to cut back on activities just because we are students on tight budgets.

To help get the most out of your money and this beautiful time of year, consider these fun, budget-friendly activities.

Getting pumped for pumpkins 

Going to a pumpkin patch and scouting for pumpkins to bring home and carve is a classic fall activity to do in preparation for Halloween, whether it be with friends or family. To be even more cost effective, you could get your soon-to-be jack-o’-lantern from the grocery store.

Everyone says pumpkin spice lattes are basic, but they’re popular for a reason and conveniently available at local coffee shops. As financially challenged university students, this is one of the cheapest and most fall-coded activities on this list.

Who wouldn’t want to sit on a bench with red and orange leaves falling around you and a cup of good ol’ pumpkin spice in hand? 

I understand Starbucks selling its pumpkin spice latte for a hefty chunk of pocket money is absurd, but there is a solution — making it at home. There are numerous delicious pumpkin spice latte recipes online. Once you’ve got that down, my personal trick is to try adding a pinch of cardamom or a dash of warm citrus. Trust me, it will take your drink to the next level. 

Soaking up the beauty of fall

Going on nature walks is a wonderful way to admire fall’s beauty. The changing leaves are a sight to behold. In Surrey, there is no shortage of parks to do this.

If you don’t want to go for a walk, try biking. When walking, you can really slow down and enjoy the scenery, but, personally, I have to admit I hate walking. I much prefer biking because I get to see all the colours of the season fly past me as I propel myself forward, making me feel like I’m on the set of a movie.

Autumn baking

I’m no Martha Stewart, but I sure love baking. There is no better time than the fall season to make baked goods. Buying and baking in bulk can be more affordable than buying treats individually.

With the right recipes, you can make delicious pumpkin pies, tarts, cookies, cakes, or anything else you wish. I recommend making candy apples, which is something I do every year with my friends.  

Preparing spooky plans and fits

Who doesn’t love Halloween? It’s one of the most popular holidays, and certainly my favourite, but preparing for it takes time. So you better start putting your costume together and prepping for that special day. Whether it be planning a party or going to haunted houses, the possibilities are endless.

When it comes to dressing up, making a costume is definitely more cost-efficient. You just have to DIY (do it yourself!) a little bit. There is no need to buy the whole costume when you can simply piece together things you already own or thrift others that you don’t. It saves money and adds a touch of your own personal flair to the costume.

Watching horror films

Horror movies — they’re not for everyone and definitely not me, but if you like the thrill and suspense, then be sure to watch a couple this season.

Despite my absolute horror of the horror genre, Scream, Coraline, Halloween, and The Addams Family are a few must-watch films I can get behind. You can never go wrong with the Halloween classics.