Borrowing on a budget: The 10 best items to borrow to save money

In today’s economy, it’s important to find ways to save money wherever and whenever possible. One way to do this is to borrow items instead of buying them. Borrowing allows you to use an item for a short period of time without having to spend money on purchasing it outright. But what items are worth borrowing?

In this post, I’ll be sharing the 10 best items to borrow that will help you save money in the long run. From tools and equipment to books and clothing, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or a homeowner looking to save on home improvement projects, read on to discover the best items to borrow to keep your finances in check.

1. Why borrow instead of buy?

Borrowing instead of buying has become a popular trend in recent times. With the ever-increasing cost of living, people are now looking for ways to save money. It’s no secret that buying things outright can be expensive, especially if you only need them for a short period of time. This is where borrowing comes in handy. By borrowing items that you only need occasionally, you can save a lot of money in the long run.

Moreover, borrowing is also environmentally friendly as it reduces waste. Many items are discarded after a few uses, adding to the already overflowing landfills. By borrowing items, you contribute to reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

Additionally, borrowing items can also help you declutter your home by not having to store items that you only use occasionally.

Another reason to borrow instead of buying is that it saves you the hassle of maintaining the items. Borrowing things like tools, equipment, or gadgets means you don’t have to worry about cleaning, storage, or repairs. You can use them as needed and return them, which means you save time and money that would otherwise be spent on maintenance.

Overall, borrowing instead of buying is a smart decision that helps you save money, declutter your home, and contribute to a better environment.

2. The top 10 items to borrow

Borrowing items can be a great way to save money, especially if you only need them for a short period of time. Here are the top 10 items that you can borrow to help you stick to your budget:

1. Tools: If you only need a specific tool for a one-off project, it makes sense to borrow it instead of buying it. Ask around your friends and family or check out local tool libraries.

2. Party supplies: Hosting a big event can be expensive, but you can save money by borrowing items like tables, chairs, and decorations from friends or family.

3. Books: If you’re an avid reader, borrowing books from the library or from friends can save you a lot of money.

4. Sports equipment: If you’re trying out a new sport or only need equipment for a short period of time, borrowing gear from a friend or from a local sports club can save you money.

5. Musical instruments: Learning to play a musical instrument can be expensive, but you can save money by borrowing an instrument from a friend or from a music store.

6. Formal wear: If you’re attending a formal event and don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new outfit, you can borrow formal wear from friends or rent it from a store.

7. Camping gear: Camping can be an expensive hobby, but you can save money by borrowing gear like tents and sleeping bags from friends or renting it from a store.

8. Kitchen appliances: If you only need a specific appliance for a short period of time, borrowing it from a friend or family member is a great way to save money.

9. Baby gear: Baby gear can be expensive, but you can save money by borrowing items like strollers and car seats from friends or family.

10. Board games: Board games can be expensive, but borrowing them from friends or from a local board game store can save you money while still providing hours of entertainment.

3. Clothing for special events

Clothing for special events is the perfect item to borrow if you want to save money. Special events such as weddings, proms, and black-tie events often require formal or semi-formal attire which can be expensive to purchase outright. Luckily, there are plenty of options for borrowing formalwear that can save you a significant amount of money.

One option is to rent a dress or tuxedo from a formalwear rental company. These companies specialize in providing affordable formalwear for one-time events and often offer a wide range of styles and sizes to choose from.

Another option is to borrow from friends or family members. If you know someone who has a similar body type and style preference to you, they may be willing to let you borrow a dress or suit for your special event.

Alternatively, you can check out websites or apps that allow you to rent clothing from individuals. These platforms can offer a wider range of styles and sizes, and often provide lower rental rates than formalwear rental companies.

Regardless of which option you choose, borrowing clothing for special events can be a great way to save money while still looking great. Just make sure to return the clothing in good condition and on time to avoid any extra fees.

4. Tools for home improvement

Home improvement projects can be expensive, but borrowing tools is a great way to save money. This is especially true for power tools, as they can be quite pricey and are not always used frequently. Instead of purchasing a new set of tools, consider borrowing from friends or family members who already own them.

You can also rent tools from home improvement stores or online rental services for a fraction of the cost of buying them outright. This allows you to complete your home improvement projects without breaking the bank.

Some of the most commonly borrowed tools for home improvement projects include drills, saws, sanders, and paint sprayers. With these tools, you can easily tackle DIY projects like installing shelves, refinishing furniture, or painting a room. By borrowing tools instead of buying them, you can save money and still achieve professional-quality results in your home improvement projects.

5. Camping gear

Camping gear can be quite expensive, especially if you only use it once or twice a year. Borrowing camping gear can save you a lot of money and also give you the opportunity to try out new gear before you make a purchase.

One great option for borrowing camping gear is to ask friends or family members who also enjoy camping. They may have extra gear that they are willing to lend you or they may be interested in borrowing gear from you in return.

Another option is to check with local outdoor gear rental companies. Many of these companies offer affordable rates on camping gear rentals, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment.

If you’re planning a camping trip with a large group, you may also want to consider renting a group campsite that includes some basic gear. These campsites often come equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and sometimes even tents and sleeping pads.

Overall, borrowing camping gear is a great way to save money while still enjoying the great outdoors. Just make sure to take good care of the gear and return it in the same condition you received it in.

6. Sports equipment

Sports equipment can be quite expensive, especially if you’re only going to use it once or twice. That’s where borrowing comes in handy. Instead of buying equipment, consider borrowing it from a friend, family member or even renting it from a sports rental shop in your area.

Borrowing sports equipment is an excellent way to save money, especially if you’re trying a new sport or activity for the first time. For example, if you’re interested in trying out snowboarding, you can rent the board and all the necessary gear for a fraction of the cost of buying it all new.

The same goes for other sports like golf, tennis, and even cycling. By borrowing sports equipment, you can try out different activities without breaking the bank, and once you’re sure you enjoy it, you can invest in your own gear.

Plus, borrowing helps reduce waste by extending the life of equipment that might otherwise end up in a landfill. So, the next time you’re thinking about buying new sports equipment, consider borrowing instead.

7. Children’s toys and books

If you have children, you know how quickly they grow tired of their toys or books. Instead of buying new ones every few weeks, consider borrowing them from other parents in your community.

There are several ways to borrow children’s toys and books. One option is to organize a toy and book swap with other parents. This is a great way to get rid of toys and books that your child has outgrown and pick up new ones that they will enjoy. You can also check out local libraries, which often have a great selection of children’s books and toys available to borrow for free.

Another option is to use toy rental services. These services allow you to rent toys for a monthly fee, which is much cheaper than buying new toys every month. This can be a great option if your child is always looking for something new to play with.

By borrowing children’s toys and books, you can save a lot of money and reduce waste. Plus, your child will love having new toys and books to play with without you having to spend a fortune.

8. Musical instruments

Musical instruments are a great item to borrow if you’re looking to save money. They can be expensive to purchase outright and often require maintenance and repairs which can add up over time. Borrowing a musical instrument can allow you to try out an instrument before committing to buying one, or simply save money on an instrument that you may only use for a short period of time.

Many cities and towns have music stores or even libraries that offer musical instrument rentals. This is especially useful for children who are just starting out with an instrument and may not be sure which they would like to play long-term. Rental programs often include maintenance and repairs, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs if something goes wrong with the instrument.

If you’re looking to borrow a musical instrument for a short period of time or just want to try out an instrument before committing to purchasing one, online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace may be a good option. Just be sure to inspect the instrument before borrowing it to make sure it’s in good condition and won’t require any expensive repairs.

By borrowing a musical instrument, you can save money while still enjoying the benefits of playing music.

9. Party supplies

If you enjoy throwing parties, borrowing party supplies can save you a lot of money. Think about items like tables and chairs, tablecloths, decorations, and even specialized items like cake stands and punch bowls.
Many party supply rental companies will offer discounts for renting multiple items, so you can easily put together a cohesive look for your event without breaking the bank.

Another great option is to borrow from friends or family members. Chances are, they have accumulated party supplies over the years and would be happy to lend them to you. Plus, borrowing from someone you know means you won’t have to worry about returning the items in pristine condition like you would with a rental company.

Remember, when borrowing party supplies, make sure you understand any terms and conditions and take care of the items as if they were your own to ensure the continued generosity of your friends and family. Borrowing party supplies is a smart way to save money without sacrificing style and fun at your next event.

10. Vacation rentals

Vacation rentals are a great option for borrowing to save money. Instead of spending a fortune on a hotel during your next vacation, consider renting a vacation home or apartment instead.

These vacation rentals can often be found at a fraction of the price of a hotel and usually offer more space and amenities like a full kitchen and laundry facilities. Plus, you can often find rentals in great locations, such as near the beach or in the heart of a city, giving you a more authentic experience of your destination.

Another great advantage of vacation rentals is that they can be shared among a group, making the overall cost even cheaper. Instead of each person paying for their own hotel room, everyone can split the cost of the rental. This not only saves money but also allows for more bonding time with friends and family.

When considering vacation rentals, be sure to do your research and read reviews to ensure you’re getting a reputable rental. Some popular rental sites include Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO. By borrowing a vacation rental, you can save money while still enjoying a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.

11. How to borrow responsibly

While borrowing can be a great way to save money, it’s important to do it responsibly. Before you borrow any items, make sure you have a plan in place to return it on time and in the same condition you received it.

It’s also important to only borrow what you need and can afford to pay back. Borrowing beyond your means can quickly turn into a financial burden, so be sure to only borrow what you can realistically pay back on time.

When borrowing from friends or family, be sure to have clear communication about expectations and timelines for returning the item. It’s also a good idea to put the agreement in writing to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings down the line.

If you’re borrowing from a rental company or borrowing service, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. Understand the fees, penalties, and interest rates involved in borrowing the item and be sure you’re comfortable with them before signing any contract.
Remember, borrowing can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to do it responsibly and with a plan in place to ensure you don’t end up in a worse financial situation than before.

12. Where to find items to borrow

Now that you know which items you can borrow to save money, you may be wondering where to find them. There are a variety of options available depending on the item you need.

For clothing, check out clothing rental services like Rent the Runway or Le Tote. You can also use online marketplaces like thredUP or Poshmark to borrow or buy gently used clothing.

If you need tools or equipment for a home improvement project, consider renting from a hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe’s. You can also check out websites like Toolshare or Peerby to borrow from someone in your local community.

For books and movies, your local library is the best place to borrow for free. You can also use services like BookMooch and PaperBackSwap to trade books with other users.

If you need a specialty item like a prom dress or a wedding gown, check out websites like Borrowing Magnolia or Rent the Runway for rental options.

For sports equipment, check out Play It Again Sports for gently used gear or use websites like Spinlister to borrow bikes and other sports equipment from local owners.
Finally, don’t forget about asking friends and family if they have items you can borrow. You may be surprised at what they have to offer.

13. The etiquette of borrowing

When borrowing items, there’s a certain etiquette that should be followed to ensure you maintain a good relationship with the lender. First and foremost, always ask for permission before borrowing anything. It’s important to respect the owner’s property and their right to say no.

If they do lend you something, make sure you take good care of it and return it promptly and in the same condition you received it. If you damage the item or lose it, offer to replace it or pay for the repairs. It’s also a good idea to express your gratitude and thank the lender for their generosity.

Finally, don’t abuse the borrowing privilege by constantly asking for things or not returning them on time. Remember, borrowing is a great way to save money, but it’s also a responsibility that should be taken seriously. By following these basic rules of etiquette, you’ll be able to maintain good relationships with your friends and family, and ensure that you always have access to the items you need without breaking the bank.

14. Conclusion

In conclusion, borrowing items can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Whether it’s borrowing from friends and family, using a rental service, or joining a tool library, there are plenty of options available to you. Remember to always be responsible when borrowing and take good care of the items you borrow.

Take some time to consider what items you need and what you can borrow instead of buying. It’s also worth thinking about what items you have that you could lend to others. Borrowing and lending can be a great way to build relationships with others and strengthen your community.

Overall, borrowing on a budget is a smart way to save money and reduce your environmental impact by reducing waste. By borrowing instead of buying, you can also try out new things and explore new hobbies without breaking the bank. I hope this list has given you some inspiration for items you can borrow to make your life easier and more affordable.

I hope you enjoyed our article on the 10 best items to borrow to save money. We know that times can be tough, and it’s important to save money wherever you can. By borrowing these items instead of buying them, you can save yourself a significant amount of money. Remember to always ask to borrow items from friends and family before making a purchase, and to be a responsible borrower by returning the items in good condition and in a timely manner. Start borrowing and saving today!