Budget-Friendly Ways to Treat Yourself After a Rubbish Week
Had one of those weeks? No matter if everything’s gone wrong or if you’re just running on empty, you deserve a pick-me-up.
However, don’t worry, treating yourself doesn’t have to mean splashing out, and I’ve put together some budget-friendly ways to treat yourself and hopefully bring a smile without spending much.

10 budget-friendly ways to treat yourself
Upgrade Your Cuppa
Pop your favourite tea, coffee, or hot chocolate in a fancy mug. Consider adding some whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a cinnamon stick if you’re looking to take your cup to an extra special level.
Have a Spa Moment at Home
Take a few minutes (or an hour for yourself), light a candle, put on a relaxing playlist, and soak in the bath (or have a shower with that posh body wash you’ve been saving).
Rewatch a Comfort Show (In PJs)
Forget the to-do list. Get back into your comfiest clothes, throw on your favourite series, and let your brain relax and rest.
Make Yourself a Snack Board
It doesn’t have to be Instagram-worthy, but it has to be about you! Add what you want, be it crisps, crackers, cheese, or grapes, whatever you’ve got in. Lay it out nicely and eat it like royalty.
Tidy One Spot
Hear me out: clearing one little space (your bedside table, the sofa corner) can feel like a fresh start. Light a candle and enjoy the tidy vibes.
Do Something Just for You
Paint your nails. Doodle badly. Read a book with a cup of tea and a biscuit. Something that isn’t productive, just nice.
Listen to a Feel-Good Playlist
Put your headphones on, turn up the joy, and go full main-character energy while you potter around. Dancing is most definitely encouraged! This is one of those good budget-friendly ways to treat yourself at home or out and about!
Pick or Buy Yourself Flowers
If you have a garden, why not pick one single flower, or grab a £1 bunch from the supermarket? You don’t have to spend a fortune on flowers to cheer you up. They are a great budget-friendly way to treat yourself.
Use the “Good” Products
You know the ones, the fancy moisturiser, the perfume you’re saving for a special day? Well today is that day.
Let Yourself Rest Without Guilt
The most rebellious act in a busy world? A proper nap. Or just lying down doing absolutely nothing. Permission granted.
Can you start to treat yourself more?
Treating yourself isn’t about being extravagant. It’s about saying, “Hey, you’ve made it through this week” and that’s worth celebrating, so cut yourself some slack and treat yourself after a hard week.
Which of these budget-friendly ways to treat yourself do you already do? Do you have any other tips that I have missed? Next time you have a rubbish week will you try anything different to lift your mood? Let me know in the comments below.
Author Bio:
Sarah is a UK-based blogger passionate about mental wellness, cosy living, and all things geeky. She writes at Life in a Break Down, where she shares budget-friendly lifestyle tips and gentle self-care inspiration, and at Word Soup, which she writes in collaboration with her partner.