Some people say, “I can’t afford to go travelling” or “I don’t earn enough to go on holiday”. Wrong! If you really want to get away from every day life for a few days, you can do it!
The best way to save money is by making a few simple changes to your life. Although you’re going to have to commit to your budget, it need not be as complicated as you imagine. It only requires planning, a bit of foresight and some motivation.
Buy less stuff
Try not to buy many things. Even when you see something you think you’d really love to own, try to think about the places you’ve been able to travel and the memories you have, and that should help you put ‘value’ into perspective.
Don’t travel on borrowed money
Coming home to a mound of debt after a life-changing travel experience is not what you want to face. Debt is stressful and if you can avoid it, you’ll live a happier life.
Commit to saving
First and foremost, you have to tell yourself that you are going to do this, then whole heartedly commit to it. By changing your mindset and the way you think is half the battle. Every time you want to buy something ask yourself, “do I really need this, or do I just want it?”. Once you are in the right head-space, you will naturally start to see what you is essential, and what you can cut back on.
Buy second-hand items
If you do need to buy new clothes or a book, don’t buy it new as this will cost more. A book is just as good second-hand from Amazon or eBay than brand new from Waterstones. Charity shops are a great place to buy a new outfit if you have to buy one; not only are you getting a bargain but you are helping a worthy cause.
Open a travel-friendly bank account
This may sound like an obvious tip ], but you would be surprised at the amount of people who don’t do it – money can easily get sucked into daily life if you don’t put it aside. If you set up a standing order or direct debit to transfer a set amount each month, you will quickly see your travelling fund grow!
You want one that’ll give you unlimited ATM withdrawals abroad and won’t charge you any transaction fees.
Sell your stuff
Get yourself up into the loft and have a look at what you are keeping “for a rainy day”. Root through the shed or the garage, open up your cupboards and drawers to see if you really need the latest “gadget” you bought 5 years ago but have never used. You will be surprised at how much money you will make this way.
