When you think of budgeting, your mind might go straight to bills, groceries, and the rising cost of living. But what if your budget included something else—something just for you? Something joyful. That’s where a ‘fun fund’ comes in.
While travel is often the go-to suggestion for treating yourself in later life, not everyone wants (or can afford) a trip abroad. And after years of family holidays, business travel, or visiting relatives, many of us have seen our fair share of airport lounges. But joy doesn’t have to involve a suitcase. Sometimes, it looks like a weekend away with friends, tickets to a show, or trying a new experience close to home.
Why budget for fun?
Fun isn’t frivolous. It brings connection, purpose, and energy. Whether it’s laughing with old friends or trying something new for the first time in a long time, making space in your life (and budget) for fun can be one of the most worthwhile investments you make.
What is a ‘fun fund’?
A fun fund is a small, intentional pool of money set aside for the good stuff. That might be a day trip to a vineyard, a long lunch with friends, a pottery workshop, or planning a girls’ or guys’ getaway to somewhere local but lovely. You could even use it for spontaneous treats—like a movie and ice cream on a rainy afternoon.
How much do you need?
Not as much as you might think. Even $10 a week adds up to over $500 a year—enough for a couple of nights away, a dinner and show with friends, or a few memorable outings somewhere out of town. You can tuck it away in an envelope, create a separate bank account, or save up spare change in a jar. What matters is it’s just for you (and maybe a few lucky friends).
Smart ways to save for it
- If you pay for things with a card, look into bank accounts that automatically round up your purchases and transfer the “extra” into a separate account.
- Prefer cash? Try rounding up manually—if something costs $8.50, pop the extra $1.50 into a jar.
- Treat the fun fund like a bill—set up a small automatic payment into a separate savings account.
- Save your gold coins or any unexpected little windfalls—cash birthday gifts, refunds, or reward points turned into vouchers.
- Sell a few things you no longer use—like clothes, books, or household items—on TradeMe or Facebook Marketplace. Even $20 here and there adds up.
Ideas to get you started
- A small getaway with friends—even one night in a charming Airbnb just an hour or two from home.
- Tickets to a local theatre production or live music event.
- A class you’ve always wanted to try (painting, cooking, dancing).
- A series of day trips—explore your region like a tourist.
- A subscription to something joyful—a streaming service, a puzzle club, a bouquet of flowers delivered.
- A themed dinner or drinks night at home where everyone wears something they’ve bought but never had the courage or opportunity to wear. (Bonus points for sparkle, sequins, or vintage finds!)
Joy doesn’t need to be expensive
You can also mix in plenty of free or low-cost options: beach picnics, movie nights at home with friends and a pile of snacks, neighbourhood potlucks, or community festivals. Your fun fund can cover the extras—transport, snacks, or a new outfit you’ve been eyeing up for a special occasion.
Don’t forget the why
After decades of juggling responsibilities, meeting expectations, and showing up for others in countless ways—you deserve joy. It’s not selfish to set money aside for yourself. In fact, it can be energising, empowering, and a reminder life after 60 is still rich with possibility.
So go ahead—start that fun fund. Plan something to look forward to. It doesn’t have to be big, just intentional. Because you’re allowed to budget for happiness.
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