Is bareback an option? ?
Bareback IS an option, but I would look for a better option, such as borrowing a saddle until you can afford one. You could ride bareback, but it would probably be safer to ride with a saddle. I would canter or jump if you do ride bareback though when you are getting to know the horse though. Also you might want to think about getting a synthetic saddle… they won’t last as long as leather ones, but they are really easy to care for, and less expensive.. I got a really nice one for around $200.