January is not everyone’s favourite month. While it is a fresh start, it comes just after Christmas, when many of us have blown our budgets on festive parties, presents and New Year’s celebrations. There is a reason that January payday always feels so far away!

However, it doesn’t have to be a gloomy month. Plenty of low-cost January activities will get you out of the house on a budget in 2024. Scroll down to see the best cheap January deals and events to keep yourself going until spring. Let’s go.

1. Escape To The Coast

While a dip in the sea might not seem like a weather-wise winter-saving idea, hear us out. The UK’s extraordinary coastline is enough to keep you busy without attacking your savings this winter.

Popular low-cost coastal activities include:

  • Pier-to-pier walks in Bournemouth
  • Walks along the cliffs of Dover
  • Enjoying the New Year’s buzz in Blackpool
  • Magnificent moments along the Wales Coast Path

No matter where you are based, an affordable seaside activity is nearby. Ideal for a low-cost weekend or day trip. Just wrap up warm!

2. Soak Up Some Culture

Cheap winter days out don’t have to be in the cold. You can hide from the frost in free and low-cost museums up and down the country.

Look for free museums near you for the ultimate cheap day out. Alternatively, if you are a culture vulture, consider buying a museum pass to save money on museums where you have to pay. The Museum Association (MA) gives you free access to over 900 museums and galleries across the UK for £4.60 a month.

3. Start Your New Year’s Resolutions

Want to be productive while embracing a money-saving tip? Make good on your New Year’s resolution! Many of us make resolutions to be fitter, eat better or simply clear out the house clutter. These don’t sound fun, but if you make an active start on them, you will fill those boring January weekends and feel accomplished at the end of the day. It’s a win-win!

4. Go To The Pictures

If you have tiny tots in the house, you might need a low-cost activity to keep them entertained on a rainy day. The cinema is an excellent option for all ages, but it doesn’t have to be an expensive venture!

There are plenty of deals and offers to help you see the latest flicks without depleting your 2024 savings. Highlights include:

5. Take In The Winter Light

Though Christmas has passed, many UK cities will still be lit up to beat the January Blues. If you are London-based, Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights Festival will take you on a journey through 12 professional light installations. Simply awesome — and completely free!

Keeping Costs Low In January — The Conclusion

No matter how much you spend in December, you can still have some low-cost fun in January. Hopefully, these tips have inspired you to get up and out before the end of the month. Just don’t forget to keep track of your budget at the same time!

Learn more about personal finance on the Cash ASAP blog.