How to Save Money So You Can Travel More

Sometimes it feels like travel is too expensive. How do people afford to go on these fantastic trips you see on Instagram? Do you need to be wealthy to go on vacation?

Definitely not!

There are a variety of ways to figure out how to save money so you can travel more. Your dream trip is within reach. It’s helpful to understand a few critical issues first, and then take action to make your travel wishes happen.

If Europe is on your bucket list, be sure to read How to Plan Your First Trip to Europe, Part 1 and Part 2.

Consider How to Reduce Trip Expenses

So, you have a journey in mind, whether it be a cruise to Alaska, a lengthy U.S. road trip, or a tour of Europe. Maybe an anniversary celebration in Hawaii! The first thing to figure out what you desire to see and how to make that as cheap as possible. 

One great way to reduce travel costs is to visit in the offseason. Italy is much cheaper in late fall vs. summer. Ditto for Alaska, when July crowds swarm hotels.

And some destinations are known for being more expensive than others. Western Europe can be much pricier than Eastern Europe. Smaller towns are generally cheaper than large cities overall. If you want to save money-try visiting a mix of high and lower-priced areas.

A California Coast road trip could include staying two nights in San Francisco, but with nights in (much cheaper) Santa Cruz, Monterey or Cambria for the next stop(s) to balance things out.

Try to brainstorm how else can you reduce expenses on your trip. Some people accumulate points from credit cards, which can be used for flights (a significant trip cost). If you want to sign up for such an offer, The Points Guy is a whole site devoted to making the most out of rewards programs.

For lodging, try to camp (in the U.S.) or book smaller hotels abroad such as B&Bs. Use an excellent guidebook to find the best deals. Many small businesses can give you the best price if you reserve directly, rather than through an aggregate booking site that charges them high fees.

When figuring out costs, remember, try to be cautious about spending money on food, hotels, transportation…but not sightseeing! That’s the main reason for your trip.

Traveling to the Holy Land? Read Can’t-Miss Places to Visit in Israel, Besides Jerusalem.

Figure Out How Much It’s Going to Cost

Once you are firm on your destination, try to get a handle on the total amount your trip will cost. For this, I would get help from a trusted guidebook, as well as online information. Be sure to pad your budget just a little, in case of surprise expenses.

Yes! Now you know your exact target! Make a vision board that helps you remember what you’re working towards. (See a variety of examples here.) Put a beautiful screensaver from your destination on your computer and phone, too. Anything that helps you keep that goal in mind.

It will help you keep going when you’re tired of your “financial diet” and want to throw in the towel. And go on a shopping spree.

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Establish a Savings Account and Build It Up

It’s imperative to open a new savings account for your travel. Most banks will allow you to add additional savings accounts (if you already have checking) free of charge, as long as you keep a minimum amount, such as $100.

Figure out what you can afford to automatically send from your weekly paycheck to this travel savings account. Set it up, and don’t touch it.

Add a monthly bonus payment if you can. An extra $30 each month can really add up over a year. Perhaps enough for another cruise excursion?

Every chance you get, try to direct money into this account. If you get a little raise, just put the extra cash here and pretend you didn’t! Yearly bonus or surprise income? Sock it away before you are tempted to spend it on a fleeting novelty at home.

Check out the 7 Best Family Vacation Spots in the U.S. if you’re traveling through the good ol’ U.S.A.

Eliminate Unnecessary Expenses

Now the hard stuff: think about what you can delete from your budget to save money for your trip.

Save on big things first. Significant decisions that save large amounts of cash are easier to live with (and go through with) than smaller, frequent decisions. For instance, we’re about to pull the plug on our cable bill. It will save us more than $1,000 a year.

And try to postpone big purchases. Do you really need a new car? A new couch? A new designer bag? Waiting on these large expenses can help you hit your financial goals.

Next on the chopping block: unused memberships and subscriptions. There was a time we loved Kindle Unlimited, but no more. Any apps that have monthly bills, but you don’t use them anymore?  Gym memberships going unused month after month?

I looove my gym, and if you are trying to go more frequently, don’t axe it. But millions of Americans pay monthly fees to places they rarely visit. Cut the cord and find a gym you love after your trip. Or utilize free YouTube workout videos.

Down with expensive daily coffee. You knew that was going to be in there! I am a big fan of coffee, but at $4 and $5 a visit, it’s easy to spend $60-$100 a month on Starbucks. That just isn’t smart, even if you don’t have a big goal in mind. Find a machine or brew you love, and go weekly, not daily.

Another common way to save a lot of money is to eat out less. A family can spend big bucks eating out three times a week. Reduce that to once, and keep more cash in your wallet for experiences you’ll remember.

And lunch out during the workweek should be an occasional treat, not a frequent happening. Bring leftovers or make a quick sandwich at home and think about those delectable meals you’ll enjoy on your trip.

Know these 8 Secrets to Having a Fantastic First Trip to Europe before you head across the pond!

Raise Some Extra Cash

Lastly, rack your brain to come up with a little moolah for your travel goal. Maybe sell something you don’t need (a collection, nice clothing or small appliances). Do you have any “toys” you’re not using anymore, i.e., a boat, camper, ATV or trailer to haul them?

Some people make extra cash on a side hustle, a small business in addition to their regular job. This could be just for the trip or something you love and continue to do to earn extra income. Possibilities include getting crafty and selling for Christmas gifts, babysitting, dog walking or teaching lessons.

Be careful not to choose something that needs a large investment. This may not be the time to spend $500 on a startup, unless you’re rock solid you want to do it long-term, and it is financially viable.

Additionally, for adults or teens, try to celebrate events and birthdays with cash that goes into your travel fund, rather than traditional gifts. A couple could enjoy dinner out for their anniversary, and put a little towards their savings, instead of buying each other presents.

These steps to savings may not be easy in the moment, but I promise it will be worth it. Just picture that trip in your mind, and enjoy the planning leading up to your departure. You can pack your suitcase knowing that your financial discipline made it happen.

So, what you think? Did I miss some essential tips for saving for travel? Let me know your favorite money-saving advice in the comments below!