So you’ve got wanderlust and can’t be cured? No problem! Just because you have an overwhelming desire to travel doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to do it. With smart spending and saving habits, you’ll be a regular jet-setter in no time.
The Traveling Budget
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Believe it or not, many people are flying for free and getting to see the world without having to go broke. If you’re ready to get in on thrifty travel, check out these six tips to get you started.
1. Track How You Spend
Do you know where your money is going? If the answer is no, you need to have a better method for managing your money. Now is the time to track how you are spending your funds.
Make a habit of regularly checking your bank account to make sure you are well aware where all of your money is going. This will help you realize where you are spending too much and how you can save more money.
2. Budget like a Pro
Since you’re preparing to travel, you’ll need to work with two budgets. The first one will be for your trip and the second one for all of the money in your life. Start by determining how much money you need on your trip. If you want to save as much money as possible, stick with a smaller budget.
When budgeting for your daily life. This means that you’ll need to tighten up your spending, only allowing for necessary expenses like food, rent, and similar bills.
3. Eliminate Unnecessary Spending
By becoming well aware of the differences in your wants and needs, you’ll be able to be more aware of your unnecessary spending habits. With the right amount of brutal honesty, you’ll be able to find where you are spending money unnecessarily and be able to cut back.
4. Build Money Saving Habits
Finding out where your money goes will help you build money-saving habits. Review all of the debt you currently have such as credit cards and student loans. Which of these have the highest interest rate that you can refinance to lower rates and save money? Use that money to save towards your next big trip!
6. Save More on Costs
While no one really wants to give up independent living, it can be the best option at times. Consider taking on one or two roommates to help you split the rent. Similarly, if you still want to live alone but need extra money, try moving to a cheaper neighborhood or smaller apartment.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all manual for thrift traveling. Being able to travel on a budget is entirely up to you. Use this six strategies as a way to save up as much as possible for your next trip. While it can be difficult to get through the initial money-saving struggles, you’ll soon reap the benefits of all of your budgeting.