In a world of over consumption- we are programmed to believe that we have to own everything we want to use, enjoy or take part in- but the reality is you can still live your best life without putting your name to every single item you want or need. Here are just a few things you can borrow rather than own.
Books: Rather than byung every book you want to read- ask friends and family if you can take a look at their book collections first or visit your local library- they can order titles in for a small fee that are not on the shelves already. It will not only save you a lot of money but it will also help you to branch out into new genres and topics too.
Clothes: There are businesses cropping up every day that offer the rental of occasion wear for if you have somewhere special to go but don’t want to spend a fortune on something you know you will only wear once. If you do your research you can find unique designer pieces you would have otherwise overlooked.
Tools: Everyone knows someone who is handy and has a store of tools in their shed or garage. Instead of buying a specific tool for a one time job- why not ask around and see if you can source the tool elsewhere first? Tools tend to be expensive pieces of kit and take up a lot of space so don’t spend the money and sacrifice the room if you don’t need to.
Movies: As with books, there are many people who still have a stash of dvds even with the appearance of streaming services. If you know someone who can’t bear to part with the physical discs, ask if you can take a look at their collection and borrow something you’ve always wanted to watch instead of spending money on Netflix, Amazon, Now TV or the cinema.
Kitchenware: Mums, grandmas and aunties are your best port of call for this sort of thing as they tend to have the most kitchenware of anyone you know. If you need an extra baking tray or glass bowl, of even something larger like a mixer or steamer, ask the ladies or the cooking enthusiasts in your life first, they are bound to have something that can get you out of pickle.
Baby equipment: Chances are you will know someone who has children or is planning on having another one at some point. In which case they will probably still have the big ticket items like prams, cots and car seats stored in their garage or attic awaiting their next use. Ask around and see if anyone will lend you the more expensive stuff while your baby needs it for you to return to them once your little one has grown out of it. You never know, your baby timeline and their baby timeline might just match up so don’t be shy if it can save you a pretty penny.
Holiday equipment: If you want to go camping- you don’t need to buy a tent and all the stuff that goes along with it. It’s likely that you will know someone who enjoys the same types of holiday as you do and can loan you the things needed to pitch up for a couple of weeks. Similarly, if you only have carry on cases but need a larger suitcase for a long vacation- ask your nearest and dearest if you can borrow their suitcases for your travels. This can apply to other things like trailers, cool boxes, beach towels, clothes and much more.
Before you go out and buy anything for a specific purpose, stop, think, do your research, ask around and you will probably find what you are looking for with a little extra effort.
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