3 Best Side Hustles to Start with Less Than £50

Let’s be real—everyone could use a bit of extra cash these days. The cost of living is rising, and a lot of us are looking for ways to make a few extra quid without having to work a second full-time job. If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into the world of side hustles, the good news is you don’t need a huge budget to get started. In fact, some of the best side hustles can be launched with less than £50. Yes, you read that right—just £50!

Whether you’re saving up for a holiday, looking to pay off some bills, or simply fancy treating yourself without feeling guilty, there are plenty of side hustles that don’t require a massive investment. The key is to start small, keep your costs low, and choose something that can grow over time. Here are three brilliant options that won’t break the bank and could even turn into something bigger. Let’s get started!

3 Best Side Hustles to Start with Less Than £50!

1. Selling Handmade Crafts on Etsy

Got a creative streak? Turning your hobby into a side hustle by selling handmade crafts on Etsy could be the perfect way to make some extra cash. Whether it’s jewellery, homemade candles, knitted scarves, or even digital downloads like prints or planners, Etsy is a fantastic platform to showcase your talents and reach a global audience. The best part? You can start with less than £50.

Let’s say you’re into making candles. You could start by buying a small kit of soy wax, some wicks, and a few essential oils—this should easily come under £50 if you keep it simple. Plus, if you already have some materials lying around at home, your costs could be even lower. Once you’ve made a few samples, take some nice photos (you don’t need a fancy camera—your phone will do), and set up your Etsy shop.

Tip: Choose a niche to stand out. For example, if you’re making candles, consider eco-friendly, vegan options, or maybe candles with unusual scents like “Freshly Cut Grass” or “Sea Breeze.” The more unique your product, the more likely you’ll catch someone’s eye.

Why It Works: People love buying unique, handmade items that feel special. In the UK, the “shop small” movement has really taken off, with more people supporting independent makers. Plus, you can gradually reinvest your earnings to grow your inventory, without ever going over budget.

2. Freelance Writing – Get Paid to Share Your Words

If you’ve got a knack for writing, freelance writing is one of the best side hustles you can start without spending a penny, let alone £50. There’s always demand for written content—whether it’s blog posts, website copy, social media content, or even ghostwriting eBooks. The only thing you really need to get started is a computer and an internet connection.

You could start by signing up for a freelancing platform like Fiverr or Upwork. Create a simple profile, list your services, and offer competitive rates to attract your first few clients. You might want to start small, offering short articles for £10-£20 to build up some reviews and credibility. Once you’ve got a few projects under your belt, you can gradually raise your rates.

If you want to invest some of that £50, you could put it towards a few essentials, like a premium grammar-checking tool (Grammarly, for instance) or a simple website to showcase your portfolio.

Tip: Start by writing about topics you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in. It’s much easier to write engaging content when you’re interested in the subject matter. Plus, potential clients will appreciate your expertise.

Why It Works: Freelance writing doesn’t require any upfront costs, making it perfect if you’re looking to earn money without a big investment. In the UK, businesses of all sizes need content, and with more companies focusing on their online presence, there’s plenty of opportunity to get started. It’s like being paid to do what you probably already do on social media—just with a bit more structure.

3. Flipping Items on eBay or Facebook Marketplace

If you’re the kind of person who loves a bargain, flipping items online could be a brilliant side hustle. “Flipping” simply means buying items for a low price and selling them for a profit. You can start with as little as £50 by visiting local charity shops, car boot sales, or online marketplaces like Gumtree, looking for items that you know are worth more than the selling price. Think vintage clothing, old vinyl records, collectables, or even home décor.

Let’s say you spot a vintage coat in a charity shop for £10, and after a bit of research, you realise it could easily sell for £40. That’s a potential £30 profit right there. As your profits grow, you can reinvest that money to buy higher-value items, gradually increasing your earnings over time. It’s like being your own little shopkeeper, without having to deal with actual premises.

Tip: Always check completed listings on eBay to see what similar items are selling for before you buy. It’s a quick way to gauge whether an item is worth flipping. Start small, learn what sells, and then expand into other categories.

Why It Works: Flipping is a great side hustle because you can start small and scale up. In the UK, there’s a growing market for second-hand items as people become more environmentally conscious and look for sustainable shopping options. Plus, you can do it at your own pace—whether it’s a few hours on the weekend or a full day’s worth of thrifting.

Tips for Maximising Your Earnings

No matter which side hustle you choose, there are a few key strategies to make sure you’re getting the most out of your efforts:

• Start Small, Think Big: Don’t worry about making loads of money right away. Focus on growing little by little. Even a small profit can snowball over time.

• Reinvest Your Profits: Put some of your earnings back into your side hustle. For example, if you’re flipping items, use your profits to buy higher-value stock.

• Stay Consistent: It’s easy to lose momentum if you don’t see immediate results, but consistency is key. Stick with it, and remember that every small win is a step forward.

• Use Free or Low-Cost Tools: Take advantage of free online resources to learn more about your chosen side hustle. For freelance writers, use writing forums or free grammar tools. If you’re selling on Etsy, join Facebook groups where other sellers share advice.

Overcoming the Challenges of Starting a Side Hustle

Starting a side hustle can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it alongside a full-time job or family commitments. Here are some tips to make the process a little easier:

• Set Realistic Goals: It’s great to have big dreams, but don’t set yourself up for disappointment. Aim for small, achievable goals and celebrate those wins.

• Find a Balance: Don’t burn yourself out by working all hours of the day. Set aside specific times each week for your side hustle, and make sure you still have time for yourself.

• Keep Learning: Whether you’re crafting, writing, or flipping, there’s always something new to learn. Follow trends in your niche and keep refining your skills.

Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or time-consuming. With less than £50, you can get started on a path that could lead to significant extra income. Whether you’re selling crafts on Etsy, freelance writing, or flipping items online, the most important thing is to take that first step. Pick something you enjoy or are curious about, stay consistent, and watch your efforts grow.

These side hustles aren’t just about making a bit of money on the side—they’re also a great way to learn new skills, meet new people, and even discover a passion you didn’t know you had. Give it a shot; you never know where it might take you.