In most cases, payday loans should be reserved for times when you really desperately need the money for an emergency and have no other way to get it. However, as long as you don’t get out of control, taking out a small cash advance for something fun won’t kill you.

Of course, you shouldn’t borrow more than you’re going to be able to pay back (with interest) without putting yourself in a difficult spot for the next week. But, there are times when something you want or need to do just hits you a few days before payday, and taking out small payday loans won’t affect your ability to pay your other bills.

Payday loan companies are generally willing to lend you up to 80% of your average paycheck. But that doesn’t mean you have to borrow that much from them. When you do borrow, only take what you need. That way, you won’t find yourself in the sad situation of having to turn over 90% of your paycheck when you’re paying them back.

Here are some examples of fun things you might decide to do using a payday loan:

• Taking the kids on a trip during your day off. Let’s face it, for most of us, our days off and the days when we have money don’t always hit at the same time. Using a payday loan to cover the cost is OK as long as you don’t go overboard. Families need time to have fun together.

• Christmas or birthday shopping. Nobody should have to go without a present to open on their birthday or Christmas, especially your kids. If you need to take out a small payday loan to get them something, do it. Now, that doesn’t mean they need to get the most expensive toy on their wish list, but you can get them something nice without borrowing against your whole paycheck.

• Shopping trip. Much like the vacation, there are times when you get a chance to hang out with your friends, and they may not always coincide with times when you have money to spend. Taking out a small loan to have a good time shopping, eating out, or just hanging with your friends won’t sink you as long as you don’t take out more than you can pay back when you get your check.

Photo via Frazzled Jen