The cost of living crisis is real, and most of us are feeling the strain of increased grocery prices, gas, and electricity. It can be easy to feel hard done by when the paycheck you’ve had for over a year suddenly can’t offer you the same lifestyle anymore.
Fortunately, towns and cities around the UK offer plenty of free tools, spaces, and events that those who want to live frugally can use to their advantage.
Use Free WiFi
One of the simplest life hacks is to use public WiFi wherever you can. Most coffee shops offer free WiFi to patrons, but some city centres, bus stations, and even parks have a WiFi hotspot that you can connect to.
This is ideal for those who work remotely are always need to be connected. If you have capped internet at home, then you can use public networks to save some of your data and do some work in the park or at a restaurant instead.
You can use free WiFi to send emails, perform video calls, or for entertainment. Sites like Rzeal Raffle require very little data to load and allow you to purchase a raffle ticket to win prizes like cash or trips abroad. By connecting to a public network, you can purchase your raffle ticket within seconds and then continue with your work.
Public Libraries
Signing up at your local public library is one of the greatest life hacks. Not only do most libraries offer free WiFi, but they also have bookable meeting rooms and study spaces, PCs, and printers. You can find more information about events in your community or job postings, and some libraries offer free workshops to boost skills.
Then, of course, there’s the benefit of having access to thousands of books, magazines, and newspapers. Libraries are also great for parents who want to do something free with their kids on a rainy day. The kiddie corners often host book readings and have toys for kids to enjoy.
Green Spaces
Don’t miss out on free events at your local park. Green spaces are commonly free to enter, and can provide an entire day of entertainment. Some parks have sculpture gardens, picnic spaces, or even areas for swimming.
Runners can join Parkrun which is a free 5km event each Saturday throughout the world. Coventry’s Parkrun takes place at the War Memorial Park.
Depending on where you live, your park might have an outdoor gym that can help you improve your fitness without having to pay hefty gym membership fees.
Birthday Freebies
If it’s your birthday, be prepared to treat yourself for free. Many franchises give away goodies if you can prove it’s your birthday, like doughnuts at Krispy Kreme or a sweet treat via the Greggs app.
Most cafes in Coventry will have a free coffee waiting if you sign up for their loyalty scheme.
Charging Stations
If you want to save a couple of bucks on your electricity bill, you can make use of free public charging stations around the city. Most libraries and restaurants will have outlets which you can use (you may have to at least purchase a cold drink at the latter). Major public transport hubs will also have areas where you can charge your devices.
If you live close to a university campus, like Coventry Uni, you may find a public space with USB charging points (along with free WiFi!).
Volunteer For Perks
Volunteering is a life hack that not many people know about. Although it takes some energy and time from your side, the benefits you reap will be worth it. Not only will you be making a positive change in your community, but you will be exposed to networking opportunities and potentially a couple of free perks.
If you volunteer at festivals or events, you may get free access. Volunteering for the National Trust sometimes results in free entry to many of their historical sites. Or you might even score a bag of groceries if you volunteer at your local food bank.
