10 Side Hustles You Can Start This Weekend (Under $50)

Ever feel like your bank account could use a little extra padding? We’ve all been there. It is tough, especially that moment when that “must-have” gadget goes on sale right after you bought it at full price – I know how frustrating it is. It happened to me once with a blender.

But, what if you could turn those spare weekend hours into actual cash? Turns out, there are tons of side hustles you can launch this weekend, most with almost no startup costs. We are talking less than $50. Let’s dive into 10 legit options that can change your financial game – no more buyer’s remorse!

II. Side Hustle Categories

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff – the actual side hustles! We’re breaking these down into categories, so you can find something that fits your skills.

1. Digital Services

If you’re good with computers, this is for you.

1. Freelance Writing/Design:
   Know your way around words or have a knack for design? Sites like Upwork and Fiverr are packed with people needing help creating content. Blog posts, website copy, logos – you name it, and someone’s willing to pay for it. Best part is, you get to use the talent you have!
   • Startup costs: $0 (assuming you’ve got a laptop and internet!)
   • Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr
2. Printable/Spreadsheet Creation:
   Are you that friend who’s obsessed with organizing? Turn that passion into profit. People are always looking for downloadable planners, budget templates, or even cute checklists. Create them once, sell them over and over!
   • Startup costs: $20-50 (might need Canva Pro or cover some Etsy fees)

2. Local Services

Prefer to get out and about? These options are perfect for you.

1. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking:
   Love furry friends? (Who doesn’t, right?) Turn that love into cash by offering pet-sitting or dog-walking services. It’s a great way to get some exercise, and the pay can be awesome.
   • Apps: Rover, Nextdoor (great for finding local clients!)
2. Yard Work/Landscaping:
   Got a green thumb – or at least don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Help your neighbors with mowing, weeding, or even planting flowers. Word-of-mouth spreads fast.
   • Tools: You probably already have basic equipment, but a $20-50 investment might get you some better gear.

3. Gig Economy

These are all about flexibility – work when you want, as much (or as little) as you want. But it requires a car.

1. Delivery Driving (DoorDash/Instacart):
   Got a car and some spare time? Turn those wheels into a money-making machine. Deliver food, groceries, or even packages. It’s perfect for setting your own schedule.
   • Earnings: Realistically, expect around $10-25/hour, depending on your area and how busy it is.
2. Mystery Shopping (Premise/Field Agent):
   Love to shop? Get paid to do it and give feedback! Mystery shoppers visit stores or restaurants, then report back on their experience. Think of it as being a secret agent, but for deals!

4. Creative Ventures

Got a crafty side? This is where you can shine.

1. Handmade Crafts (Etsy):
   If you’re always making things – jewelry, candles, knitted scarves, whatever! – Etsy is your online marketplace. It’s a fantastic way to turn your hobby into extra income, and I have a friend who is killing it selling her handmade earrings.
   • Materials: Costs vary, but you can start small with $10-50 for supplies.
2. Reselling Thrift Finds:
   Love the thrill of the hunt? Hit up thrift stores, flea markets, or even garage sales. Find hidden gems, give them a little cleaning or fixing up, and flip them online for a profit!
   • Sourcing: Your local thrift stores are gold mines!

5. Home-Based Services

These are perfect if you prefer to work from the comfort of your own place.

1. Ironing/Laundry (Poplin):
   Okay, I know, doing laundry isn’t everyone’s favorite chore, but some people hate it. That’s where you come in! Services like Poplin connect you with people who’d rather pay someone else to handle their laundry.
   • Pricing: You can set your own rates, usually around 1-3 per item.
2. Home Cleaning:
   If you’re a neat freak (no judgment – I get it!), offer cleaning services to busy families or professionals in your area. A clean space is a happy space, and people are willing to pay for that!
   • Supplies: A basic starter kit with cleaning products might cost around $30.

III. Maximizing Success

So, you’ve picked a side hustle (or two!). Now, let’s talk about making the most of it.

• Low-Cost Tools: You don’t need fancy software to get started. Canva is amazing for creating graphics (even the free version is great!), and there are tons of free scheduling apps to keep you organized.
• Scaling Tips: Once you start earning, reinvest some of that profit back into your hustle. Maybe upgrade your equipment, or invest in some advertising. Also, look for ways to automate tasks – the less time you spend on busywork, the better!
• Avoiding Pitfalls: The biggest one? Time management. It’s easy to let a side hustle take over, so set realistic hours and stick to them. And don’t forget about taxes! Set aside a portion of your earnings to cover those.

Your Weekend Starts Now: Launch Your Side Hustle

Ready to get started? Pick one or two ideas from this list that really speak to you, and commit to launching them within the next 48 hours. Action is key. Remember that stat from earlier? It turns out 78% of side hustlers who stick with it, find themselves earning $500 or more per month within 90 days – and that’s extra cash you can use for anything you want! So, what are you waiting for?