We would be nothing if it weren’t for our fans. Our team at Eventing Nation is so lucky that we have a dedicated fan base who appreciates our competition coverage, occasionally unhinged articles, and most importantly, our sense of humor. So, when I posted to our Instagram Story asking for your favorite money-saving tips, I should have expected a few tips that were just as unhinged as we are!
To start this article off on the right note, I present to you my favorite piece of advice, which is, apparently, that we should all be knitting our horses’ festive hats. Not to save money, but just for the heck of it.
“It doesn’t save money, but knitting your horse festive hats.” – @cathemurr
The most common tip was to get out of horses, entirely. I couldn’t help but notice that this one mostly came from the professionals among us…
“Sell your horse.” – @hanniesue
“Don’t own a horse.” – @paradoxfarmsporthorses
“Get out of horses entirely 😂” – Ema Klugman
But the majority of our fans were more serious, presenting advice like getting horse insurance. Just a note here– when putting a value on your horse for insurance purposes, make sure to take into account training rides, competition records, etc.
“Insurance is worth every penny.” – @ashleekazam
How much have you spent on horse treats lately? Instead of spending beaucoup bucks on name-brand treats, one eventer suggests trying Dumor Horse Treats. I can confirm, even my picky eater really likes these treats.
“Dumor Horse Treats.” – Katie Lichten
Now, I would suggest taking this next piece of advice at your own risk. I have not tried this myself, and I’m fairly certain my saddle fitter would have my head for possible seat damage to my saddle.
“Need breeches in a pinch? Throw some electric tape on the seat of your leggings.” – @equestri_ange
Here’s a classic piece of advice– working off board by putting in some extra shifts at the barn. I’ve been doing this off and on for the entirety of my riding career. When money gets tight, it’s my go-to hack.
“Trade barn work for decreased board. Save up your wants for holidays and add to your wish list! Buy used from local consignment shops like Snooty Fox.” – @helenddear
Buying used tack was also suggested several times. I would add to this consigning tack you no longer use! Nothing feels better than selling a saddle and recycling the money into a new saddle. Don’t forget to check online tack stores for used sections as well.
“I buy all my tack used. Gently used tack is plentiful!” – @Katieesheaa
“Second-hand tack stores! You can get really good used blankets and bridles.” – @s_byars_eventing
Speaking of tack stores, work at your local tack store in what little spare time you have! Many tack stores offer their employees a discount.
“Get a part time job at a tack store. But for real: work as much as you can- make connections in the horse world, be useful. Learn how to braid on your own, learn how to clip, buy used.” – @towzeepants
And, if you really want to save some money, half-lease a horse or, if you have the skill and experience, offer to put training rides on someone else’s horse for free or for a fee.
“Riding for someone else.” – @_alisonfish
Don’t underestimate the power of the Dollar Store or 5 Below! Personally, I get the majority of my first aid supplies there, such as povidone iodine solution, neosporin, diapers, and more. You can also find Witch Hazel, hair brushes for their mane and tail, and all the boxes and totes you could ever need to keep your tack room organized.
“Dollar store for grooming products and organization.” – @megpellegriniequestrian
If multiple people in your barn buy SmartPaks, you can have them all delivered on the same day to get free shipping. Before you hit “checkout,” send a text to your barn group chat to see if anyone else needs something. You can split shipping or get free shipping.
“Order things as a group to get free shipping more easily & don’t feel as tempted to spend big money. Buy snacks at the grocery store BEFORE driving to the show!” – @eventing.hiking.pharmacy
Speaking of supplements, buying them in bulk can often save you a few dollars. But, be nice to your barn owner and separate them out into reusable sandwich bags or other containers for convenience.
“Buy supplements in bulk and create your own SmartPaks.” – @daijasams
When it comes to clothing, try shopping at big box stores, instead of boutique sites. Check Wal-Mart and TJ Maxx for athletic shirts at half the price. Or, if you’d like to be more environmentally friendly, try looking at second-hand shops or online sites like Depop.
“Buy your riding shirts from Amazon, not brand sites 🙌 Hell of a lot cheaper and work just as well.” – @autoimmuneequestrian
“I’ve found some great brand name sun shirts meant for other sports at TJ Maxx for great prices. And my XC shirt is from Wal-Mart!” – @kloushin
“I get my polos from Old Navy!!” – @barreracaden
Any single people looking for a useful life partner out there? This veterinarian suggests marrying into the career to get all the benefits of free vet bills and none of the medical school debt.
“Marry a veterinarian so your bills are free.” – @elliottequinevet
And finally, try getting more horses and refusing to look at your bank account. This works even better if all of your horses are the same color and start to blend together…
“Just keep getting more and more, then you won’t notice!!” – @_emma.paul
Are you testing out one of these money-saving hacks (or knitting your horse a festive hat)? Post it on social media and tag @goeventing! We just might share your post.
A big thank you to Saddlery Brands International and Arena Saddles for their support of this article! For a limited time only, you’ll receive a FREE Arena Saddle Pad with the purchase of their brand new Arena Monoflap Jump Saddle. The single-flap design offers an intimate feel, allowing you to maintain a balanced and supportive seat on the flat and over fences. Learn more about their newest monoflap saddle here.
