Living with roommates can be a little awkward at first, especially if you’re total strangers. But, even our closest friends were once strangers. Getting to know your roommates has a lot of perks. For starters, knowing their quirks helps you communicate better when issues come up. Good communication is the foundation of good roommate relationships (That’s why we created the PadMate Member Messenger App!) Other benefits include having people to share ideas with or get advice from.
If you’re looking for ways to get to know your new roommates or for fun ways to bond with them, we’ve got you covered. Here are five fun, budget-friendly things to do with your roommates.
5 Fun, Budget Friendly Roommate Activities
Family Dinner
At least once a month, schedule a “family” dinner where you all cook and eat together. This could be part of your regular house meetings or on a different day. Sit down together to plan the meal, making sure each PadMate has the opportunity to make a dish. Split the cost of groceries. Then, cook, eat, and enjoy! Preparing and cooking meals is a great way to build teamwork and fellowship. The bonus: You can split the leftovers and have go-to meals during the week.
Movie Night
Who doesn’t love a good movie night? Simply pick a night, a movie, snacks, and go! It’s fun, easy, and affordable. You could even make it a regular event where you and your PadMates alternate playing “host.” The host picks the movie and the snacks. A person’s favorite movies say a lot about them which makes this a fun way to get to know one another.
Game Night
All you need for game night are your PadMates, games, and snacks. It’s super easy and budget-friendly. Pick a date. Have each PadMate bring their favorite game. It could be a board game, card game or game on your phone like Heads Up!. Set out some snacks and start playing! Games are a fun way to get to know one another.
Community Service
Giving back to the community is good for the soul. Sit down with your PadMates and talk about ways you can give back. Are there organizations you can volunteer at together? Could you host a food or clothing drive? Donating your time as a team helps you bond over a shared cause and goal. It builds teamwork and fellowship.
Play Tourist
Playing tourist in your own city is a fun, cheap way to have fun and bond with your PadMates. Have each PadMate pick a couple of their favorite tourist locations. In Atlanta, that might be Centennial Olympic Park, the Beltline, Ponce City Market, or Piedmont Park. Pick a day and tour your city together. Be sure to take photos just like any other tourist!
Conclusion: Sharing a house with others can be a lot of fun. Try these budget-friendly activities with your PadMates to make it an even better experience.