Having no kids means more flexibility, fewer responsibilities, and more time for activities. DINK couples enjoy more freedom to explore life on their own terms. With the average DINK household making upwards of $100,000, according to a Harris poll, some consider this 5% of the population the new 1%. And they are spending their money as such. Here are 10 favorite pastimes that child-free individuals often love to indulge in without limitations.
1. Dining Out
DINKs are able to enjoy uninterrupted meals whenever they please. Most DINKs, particularly younger Gen Z and Millennials, eat out more than the average American. According to a Harris Poll survey, DINKs spend an average of $816 per month on dining out, nearly four times the $215 spent by typical households.
2. Engaging in Hobbies
Often with kids, finding time to engage in hobbies can seem out of reach. Since DINKs have more leisure time, they often are able to engage in pastimes like golf, tennis, or painting. Plus, with additional disposable income, they are able to spend more money on entertainment and hobbies. They also have the flexibility to take classes, join clubs, or travel for hobby-related events without needing to coordinate childcare.
3. Spontaneous Travel
One of the activities that DINKs enjoy is travel. DINKs are spending more on luxury travel than their counterparts who have children. They allocate nearly double the typical budget for vacations, investing around $2,000 per trip. Plus, they are able to plan spontaneous vacations on a whim. With no school schedules or childcare logistics to worry about, they can jet off mid-week or extend trips without stress.
4. Sleeping In
While it may seem like a small thing, DINKs are able to get much more shut-eye than those with children. Especially on the weekends, DINKs love to indulge in sleeping in. They can wake up naturally without alarms, crying babies, or early morning activities. This extra rest often leads to better moods, productivity, and overall well-being.
5. Wellness
DINKs often prioritize health and wellness by working out and eating well. They can commit to morning yoga, marathon training, or boutique fitness classes without juggling childcare schedules. In addition, they also tend to prioritize mental health and seek out things like meditation or therapy to reduce stress. With fewer time constraints, they’re able to build consistent routines that support both physical and emotional well-being.
6. Having a Spotless House
Without small children running around, DINKs treat their home like a sanctuary. They indulge in decorating, cleaning, and organizing their home. While on the other hand, couples with children usually choose function over aesthetics. Being child-free allows DINKs to maintain a clutter-free, stylish space that truly reflects their personal taste.
7. Self-Care
Not only do DINKs prioritize wellness, but they also value self-care. They enjoy things like a long bath, facials, massages, and more. While couples with kids are lucky to shower, DINKs are able to find time for self-care guilt-free. This consistent focus on self-nurturing often contributes to lower stress levels and a stronger sense of balance.
8. Socializing
DINKs tend to have strong social connections and are able to plan activities with friends and family. While parents may try to find time for adult-only outings, it can be challenging to coordinate. DINKs are often afforded the time to socialize and maintain relationships. However, some DINKs have reported that not having children in a society that values it can be isolating. Many have taken to social media to show off the DINK lifestyle and the freedoms that they enjoy.
9. Binge-Watching TV Shows
DINKs are free to binge their favorite shows uninterrupted. Instead of having to pause for bedtime or playdates, DINKs can watch an entire season of popular shows in one sitting. They don’t have to worry about kid-friendly content or sharing the remote. It’s their time to fully unwind, escape into a storyline, and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment.
10. Financial Freedom
No daycare fees or college funds means more room in the budget for luxuries, investments, or simply saving for the future. While the DINK lifestyle isn't the automatic solution to every financial problem, it does help to not have childcare expenses. As mentioned, many DINKs use this financial flexibility to travel more, dine out often, or invest in personal development. It also gives them greater freedom to take career risks or pursue passion projects without the pressure of supporting dependents.
Activities DINKs Indulge In
The DINK lifestyle offers a unique kind of freedom, freedom of time, money, and personal choice. Without the demands of raising children, many couples embrace activities like travel, self-care, hobbies, and financial flexibility. While it’s not without its own challenges, being child-free allows for a level of spontaneity and personal fulfillment that many find deeply rewarding. Whether it’s sleeping in on a Sunday or booking a last-minute getaway, DINKs often enjoy the ability to prioritize themselves and design a life that fits their values.
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