Discover easy and profitable side hustles in the UK you can start with under £100. Practical ideas, real-life success stories, step-by-step guides, and tips for 2025.
Introduction: Why Start a Side Hustle With a Small Budget?
Whether you’re a student, part-time worker, or someone seeking extra income, starting a side hustle can be a game-changer. But the fear of upfront costs can hold many back. The good news is, you can launch many side hustles in the UK with under £100. The trick lies in leveraging low-cost tools, existing skills, and smart planning.
This detailed guide explores practical side hustles you can start today without breaking the bank, supported by real UK success stories and actionable tips to maximise earnings in 2025 and beyond.
Real Story: Jack’s £50 Start in Graphic Design
Jack, a young graphic designer in Manchester, invested just £50 in a premium online portfolio and business cards. Within three months, he landed freelance projects through local businesses and social media referrals. “I thought I’d need thousands to start, but with careful budgeting and hustle, those first £50 went a long way,” Jack recalls. “Today, my side hustle funds my creative courses and travel.”
Top Side Hustles Under £100 to Start in the UK
1. Freelance Writing or Blogging
- Start-up costs: Laptop, free tools (Grammarly, Canva), optional premium blog hosting.
- Why it works: Content demand is huge; clients always need articles, blog posts, copywriting.
- How to start: Join sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or local UK freelancer platforms to find gigs.
- Average earnings: £10-£30/hour or per article depending on skill and niche.
2. Handmade Crafts or Jewelry
- Start-up costs: Materials and tools (beads, wires, fabric) £30-£100.
- Why it works: Unique products attract buyers on platforms such as Etsy and Depop.
- How to start: Create a few sample items, build a digital shop on marketplaces.
- Average earnings: £5-£50 per item based on complexity and demand.
3. Online Tutoring
- Start-up costs: Webcam, a quiet space, free or low-cost scheduling tools.
- Why it works: Schools and parents increasingly opt for online tutors.
- How to start: Register on UK platforms like Tutorful or Superprof.
- Average earnings: £15-£40/hour depending on subject and experience.
4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
- Start-up costs: Insurance (optional at start), marketing flyers, some toys/treats £20-£50.
- Why it works: High demand in urban UK areas; easy to start locally.
- How to start: Join apps like Tailster or Rover, advertise in community groups.
- Average earnings: £10-£20/hour.
5. Reselling Second-Hand Goods
- Start-up costs: Initial inventory from home or thrift shops, minimal marketing, £50-£100.
- Why it works: Charity shops and online marketplaces offer huge resale opportunities.
- How to start: Use eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Depop.
- Average earnings: Profits vary widely; successful resellers make hundreds monthly.
6. Social Media Management for Small Business
- Start-up costs: Niche knowledge, smartphone, free content scheduling tools.
- Why it works: Small businesses need affordable social media help.
- How to start: Offer services directly to business owners or on freelancing platforms.
- Average earnings: £10-£30/hour depending on experience.
Table: Startup Costs and Earnings Summary for Under £100 Side Hustles
| Side Hustle | Estimated Startup Cost (£) | Average Hourly Earnings (£) | Key Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freelance Writing | 0-50 | 10-30 | Laptop, internet, writing tools |
| Handmade Crafts | 30-100 | 5-50/item | Craft supplies, camera |
| Online Tutoring | 0-50 | 15-40 | Computer, webcam |
| Pet Sitting/Walking | 20-50 | 10-20 | Insurance, mobile phone |
| Reselling Goods | 50-100 | Variable | Smartphone, internet |
| Social Media Management | 0-50 | 10-30 | Smartphone, scheduling tools |
Tips for Maximising Your Side Hustle Success
- Start with free marketing: social media groups, word-of-mouth, local ads.
- Keep overheads low by using digital tools (free scheduling, invoicing apps).
- Invest in skills with free online courses (Coursera, FutureLearn).
- Manage time effectively, balancing your hustle with main job or studies.
- Collect testimonials and reviews early to build credibility.
FAQs About Starting Side Hustles Under £100 in the UK
Q: Do I need to register my side hustle for tax?
Yes, if you earn above £1,000 you must declare income to HMRC and possibly register as self-employed.
Q: Can I start a side hustle without special skills?
Yes, many gigs require minimal skills but willingness to learn and provide good service.
Q: How do I find clients or customers?
Use online platforms, community groups, social media and local networking to connect.
Q: Are side hustles scalable?
Many can grow into full-time businesses with time and reinvestment.
Call to Action
Don’t wait to make extra income. Start your hustle today with under £100, leveraging your skills and community. Share this guide and inspire friends to explore flexible earning in 2025. For more insights, detailed guides, and finance tips specific to the UK, visit uk.savewithrupee.com. Your side hustle journey starts now!
I’m the founder of Save With Rupee – UK Edition. I write practical, easy-to-follow guides on UK money topics — from credit and insurance to side hustles, savings, and investing. My mission is simple: to help everyday people in Britain make smarter financial choices, one pound at a time. Click here to more Details