Fun Financial Challenges to Help You Save Money
Saving money doesn’t have to be boring, it can actually be fun.
If you’re looking to get your finances in check, financial challenges are a great way to shake up your spending habits, build savings, and feel more in control of your money, without feeling like you’re sacrificing your life. Whether you want to spend less, save more, or just be more mindful with your cash, we’ve got a list of creative challenges to try. Let’s get into it!
The “Shop Local” Challenge
Goal: Support your local economy while tracking your spending.
How it works:
- For one month, commit to shopping only at local stores, markets, and small businesses with no purchases at big-box retailers or Amazon orders.
- Track how your spending changes. Local products might cost more upfront, but you might find you spend less overall by avoiding impulse buys.
- Bonus: You’ll feel great knowing your money is staying in your community.
Why it works: Forces you to be intentional with every purchase and cuts down on mindless online shopping.
The “No Food Delivery” Challenge
Goal: Reduce takeout expenses and build healthier habits.
How it works:
- For 30 days, delete your food delivery apps (yes, all of them).
- Plan your meals ahead of time and meal-prep on weekends.
- If you want a restaurant meal, you have to physically go and pick it up, adding an extra layer of effort that helps curb cravings.
Why it works: You’ll be shocked at how much you save by cooking at home (or just by making takeout less convenient) and avoiding those nasty delivery fees.
The “No-Spend Weekend” Challenge
Goal: Reset your spending habits and find free fun.
How it works:
- Pick one weekend a month where you spend zero dollars – no dining out, shopping, or entertainment that costs money.
- Get creative: explore free events, go for a hike, have a movie marathon, or do a DIY spa day.
- Put the money you would have spent into a savings account or investment.
Why it works: Helps you realize how much you can enjoy life without constantly spending money.
The “Savings Percentage” Challenge
Goal: Build your savings muscle.
How it works:
- Pick a percentage of your income (10%, 15%, 20%) and automatically transfer it into a high-interest savings account each time you get paid. See how many months you do this.
- Watch your savings grow while living off the rest.
Why it works: Automating your savings takes the mental effort out of the equation and helps you prioritize your future self.
The “No New Clothes” Challenge
Goal: Cut back on unnecessary shopping.
How it works:
- Set a time frame (one month, three months, or longer) where you won’t buy any new clothes, shoes, or accessories.
- If you really need something, try buying secondhand from thrift stores or apps like Poshmark or Depop.
- Track how much you save while realizing how little you actually miss new clothes and enjoy the ones you already own.
Why it works: Breaks the habit of impulse fast fashion purchases and helps you appreciate what you already own.
Final Thoughts: Turn Money Challenges Into Money Habits
These financial challenges aren’t just about saving a quick buck — they’re about building long-term money habits that help you feel more in control of your finances. Plus, when you gamify your savings, it’s easier to stay motivated and actually enjoy the process.
Do you have a challenge idea? Don’t Want to Attempt a Challenge Alone?
Join or create a challenge on Zyaade. Let’s build your financial future together.