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Everywhere you look, you’re reminded of the upcoming holidays. Bucket lists are just one of the ways that people express their different interpretations of the season. I had a love/hate relationship with seasonal bucket lists when I started my debt-free journey. I completely ignored them at first. After all, how could I even think about creating a fun bucket list when I was trying to pay down debt? I loved the idea of listing out the seasonal memories I wanted to create but I didn’t know how to create a seasonal budget bucket list when I was broke.

Here at Short Stack Tall Order, my goal is to help you experience a fun, fulfilled life even with a short stack of cash. Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the season and create a bucket list. I’ve changed my attitude towards bucket lists by tweaking how I approach them. Read on for 5 easy steps on how to create a seasonal budget bucket list.

What is a seasonal bucket list?

First of all, a seasonal bucket list is simply a list of to-do items that you want to check off before the season ends. Bucket lists are intended to help you grow, accomplish goals, gain focus, or create memories. They focus on the meaning of the season, and the memories you want to create.

Elaborate seasonal bucket lists are plastered all over social media. There are fashion bucket lists, decorating bucket lists, and the all-encompassing seasonal “must do” bucket lists. For those of us on a limited budget, you might think they’re a waste of time, but you don’t need to feel this way. Read on to see how you can create your seasonal bucket list that’s budget-friendly and fun. 

5 Easy Steps to Create a Seasonal Budget Bucket List

1. Choose one seasonal item or theme

The best budget-friendly tip is to choose one item or theme and stick to it for the entire bucket list. For example, create a bucket list centered around pumpkins or apples for Fall. For a great post on a budget-friendly pumpkin Fall bucket list, click here. Check out two other Fall inspired bucket lists:

• Frugal Fall Apple Bucket List
• Frugal Spooky Fall Bucket List

By choosing one item, you’ll save money since all of the activities are centered around that one main item. Seasonal items are cheaper, easily accessible, and come in various styles to fit different tastes or preferences.

Another budget-friendly trick is to pick a theme and center your entire bucket list around it. Here are some ideas for each season:

• Fall – gratitude, spooky fun
• Winter – giving, goal-setting for the new year
• Spring – renewal, decluttering/Spring cleaning
• Summer – outdoor fun

2. Create a list that is in line with your budget and available time

Most bucket lists have everything imaginable listed that you can do in a season. Even if you had endless amounts of money and time, completing every item on most bucket lists is not realistic. Instead, focus on experiences that you can afford. Check your monthly zero-based budget, and pick items that you know you’ll enjoy and are willing to try. Pick bucket list items that convey what the season means to you, and what you can truly accomplish with your available time and money.  

3. Don’t compare your list to others

It’s easy to fall prey to the comparison game. Your bucket list may be short and practical and not as exciting as others. Remember, a bucket list is your expression of the season. It doesn’t need to be fancy or elaborate. Focus on the experiences that make you happy. You should look forward to marking off each item, not regretting the things you can’t afford to do.  

Just because your list is budget-friendly and straightforward doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun and memorable. You may find seasonal traditions that you’ll keep on your bucket list for years to come, and that’s okay.

Also, comparing your list defeats the purpose of a bucket list. Bucket lists should be personal. If your list loses its appeal because it’s not as elaborate as others, then you’re missing the point. Don’t steal the joy from the memories you’ll create just because it’s affordable and straightforward. Some of the best memories I’ve created were free or inexpensive.  

Ignore social media if you can’t stop playing the comparison game. It’s okay to get helpful tips or ideas from others. If you find yourself depressed that your bucket list is not as fancy or fun, then take a break from social media. Enjoy your bucket list without distractions.

4. Don’t feel the need to include one new bucket list item each year

If you’re on a budget, it’s hard to justify a new bucket list experience if it costs money. You don’t need to add new items to your bucket list each year. If you can afford it, then, by all means, go for it. If you can’t afford it, don’t beat yourself up about it. First, look at your list and be thankful for the items that you can afford to do.  If you want to add something new, choose something that’s inexpensive or free to do. Click here for some Fall budget-friendly bucket list ideas.

5. Create a bucket list for the things you want to add to your list when you’re out of debt

List all of the items you would like to add to your bucket list when you’re out of debt. This will give you something to look forward to. Instead of feeling deprived, empower yourself to dream. Acknowledge the fact that you will be able to afford these items someday, just not now.

Final Thoughts on Creating a Seasonal Budget Bucket List

It’s easy to feel left out feeling like you can’t enjoy the season when you’re on a budget. You don’t need to sit at home and pout while everyone is posting about their seasonal bucket lists. Choose affordable adventures that you know you and your family will enjoy. Using these 5 easy steps to create a seasonal bucket list on a budget will get you off the the sidelines and enjoying the season in no time. Creating lasting memories doesn’t have to break the bank.

Please share your budget-friendly seasonal bucket list tips. I would love to hear what you plan on doing. Please like and share this post.