5 Must-Haves to Start Living on Your Own

Adulting is expensive. There’s no clearer proof than the growing number of Filipinos delaying moving out of their parents’ home. According to a study conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), today’s Gen Z and millennials are “putting off living independently as housing prices and the overall cost of living continue to climb.”

Still, there comes a time when independence calls and you’ll need to step out, even if it means starting small. Whether you’re moving out for the first time, saving to rent your own place, or slowly building your dream home, the game plan stays the same: to be budget-savvy from day one and save where you can.

Think small steps, smart choices, and long-term value. Here’s how to get started.

1. Pick a fast and flexible internet plan that fits your budget.

For young adults who work from home or are in a hybrid office setup, no home is complete without a strong internet connection. It’s the first thing they ask their landlords or brokers: “Is the home internet-ready?”

However, long-term contracts and hidden fees can complicate short-term leases that can last for less than two years.

Thankfully, Red Fiber just launched its new, no-frills, pure fiber broadband plans at affordable price points and no lock-in period—perfect for young adults or renters who value flexibility. Whether you’re working remotely, streaming your favorite shows, or catching up on calls with family, Red Fiber keeps you connected, minus the hassle.

Red Fiber’s tagline “WiFi lang, Walang eme” directly addresses the practical and straightforward mindset of Gen Zs and millennials. With them in mind, Red Fiber is offering practical packages to suit them best: Plan 1000 with speeds of up to 100 Mbps, perfect for solo earners on a budget; Plan 1400 with speeds of up to 300 Mbps, ideal for young professionals and condo dwellers; and Plan 1900 with speeds of up to 500 Mbps for small families balancing work and entertainment at home.

Red Fiber plans are simple and uncomplicated: no add-on fees, no lock-ins—just pure fiber connectivity. Subscribers can also avail themselves of a 50 percent discount on installation fees until Dec. 31, 2025.

2. Start with the essentials and skip the excess.

When setting up your space, it’s tempting to buy everything on your Pinterest mood board. Don’t do it! Instead, invest first in what matters: a comfortable bed, a sturdy dining table (that can double as a work/study table), and reliable appliances. You can always upgrade later. Minimalism isn’t just an aesthetic—it’s a strategy.

3. DIY your decor and storage.

You don’t need to splurge on designer furniture or overpriced storage bins. Check out home stores that offer design pieces at affordable prices, surplus stores, or online marketplaces for quality secondhand pieces. Get creative—paint your own wall art—and learn basic DIY fixes. Don’t just move in—build your own cabinets or storage solutions, so you can make your place truly yours.

4. Choose smart over fancy tech.

Don’t fall for every “smart tech” or “upgrade” ad. Begin with devices that make everyday living easier, such as power-saving aircons, durable rice cookers, or a laptop that can take hours of continuous work and play. You can add those voice-activated or smart gadgets much later, when you’re already settled. 

5. Enjoy today but plan for the long run.

Being budget-savvy isn’t about depriving yourself, but about spending wisely. This way, you can enjoy what truly matters as you enjoy your new-found independence: comfort, convenience, and connection. Build slowly, live simply, and celebrate small wins (like finally paying off the installment plan on your sofa).

At the end of the day, a practical home isn’t just a space. It’s about you being independent and fully embracing the exciting life ahead of you, without having to break the bank.

Subscribe to the new Red Fiber plans through www.redfiber.com and get the latest updates on @RedFiberPH on Facebook and Instagram.