Dreaming of that next family getaway but feel like your piggy bank’s on a diet? Today, I’m diving into 30 creative ways to save money for travel. Over the years, our family has socked away tens of thousands of dollars living off one salary, all thanks to smart budgeting habits and unique savings hacks we’ve developed.
This list has got you covered on all fronts: fun ways to rake in extra cash, practical hacks to sniff out savings in your existing budget, and long-term strategies to keep that travel fund growing.
It’s not just about clipping coupons; it’s about lifestyle tweaks that you’ll hardly notice but your travel fund will definitely feel. And often enough, I’ve found the battle is often more mental than financial. Learning to resist that swipe and reevaluating your needs and wants can make all the difference.
So let’s get that travel fund sorted, shall we?
30 Creative Ways To Save Money For Travel
1. Re-Assess Your Bills
First stop: your bills. Let’s get real—some are essential; others, not so much.
Could you make do with one streaming service instead of four? Consider other corners you could cut. Car expenses add up. Could public transport be a cheaper route to work? Maybe swap the gym for home workouts? Matt and I recently shaved $100 off our mobile spend per month simply by tweaking our plans. Everything is worth looking at.
And you can always tailor your cuts to your travel goals. If globe-trotting is your jam, deep cuts won’t hurt. But if it’s simply a once-a-year vacay your saving up for, find your happy medium.
2. Have A “No Spend” Day Once Per Week
Think you can’t save? Try this: pick one day a week and spend zilch. Nada. Zero. If you’re feeling brave, make it a weekend – trust me, you’ll be okay! But if weekends are sacred, a weekday will do just fine too.
And the best part? The kiddos can join in on the fun too. Weekends offer ample free family activities—think hikes or beach outings. It’s a double win: you save some dosh and get quality time with the fam. So why not take the “no spend” day/week or even month challenge and see how much you can stash away?
3. Wait Two Days Before Making A Purchase
I love this one! Ever find yourself tempted by an online deal or in-store find? Here’s a trick: wait 48 hours before you buy. For online shopping, pop it in your cart and step away. In-store? Walk out and give it two days.
If you’re still itching to buy after the wait, it’s probably worth it. If it’s slipped your mind, then it wasn’t meant to be. This two-day rule helps to hold off on those impulse buys and makes each purchase a thoughtful one. You’ll feel good spending money on things you actually want, not just spontaneous splurges.
4. Utilise Free Activities
Who says fun has to cost a fortune? Your kids will be just as thrilled at a playground as they would be at a flashy exhibition. On the next school break, why not challenge your family to only free activities? Draft a list with the kids and aim to tick everything off before break’s end.
You’ve got options abound: fruit picking, playground hopping, hikes, library visits, picnics, or beach days. Check out your local council’s website; you’d be amazed at the free goodies on offer. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about creating memories without breaking the bank.
5. Buy Pre-Loved Instead Of New
Bying a new home decor piece? Before you splurge, have a gander on Marketplace or other second-hand platforms. You’d be surprised at the gems you can find—often just as good quality and at a fraction of the cost. It’s the little buys that add up: plants, frames, cushions.
You could even implement a ‘three-no, one-yes’ rule? For every three temptations you bypass, give in on the fourth. Need to spruce up the kids’ toy collection? Pre-loved Lego sets and unwanted birthday gifts can be great finds online. Your bank account will be as pleased as you are.
6. Go Easy On Self-Care Luxuries
Don’t shoot the messenger, ladies! Now, hear me out. There’s essential self-care, like haircuts, and then there’s the luxe kind—think bi-weekly manicures. Could you skip every other nail appointment? Is professional makeup a must for every event?
Evaluate what’s crucial for your well-being and what’s merely a treat. Scale back on the latter and you’ll find a few more notes in your travel jar. After all, the more you save now, the more you can splurge on travel experiences that you’ll cherish forever. It’s a win-win.
7. Re-Think Costly Habits
I’m not saying live like a monk here guys, but a quick review of your habits can save a lot. Love your daily takeaway coffee? How about limiting it to certain days of the week? Limiting yourself to one wine after work (or on the couch alone.. no? Just me?) instead of three also makes a difference.
Opt for a coffee catch-up with friends rather than a full-on lunch, or go for a walk and grab a cheap ice-cream rather than ordering dessert. These little tweaks let you enjoy life’s pleasures while keeping that travel fund healthy. It’s all about balance, and it adds up quicker than you’d think.
8. Have A Garage Sale
Ever peeked deep into your garage and wondered, “Why do I still have this?” You’ll be surprised what others might pay for those long-forgotten items. Gather up those odds and ends and host a garage sale.
Get the kids in on the action; they’ll have a blast. Make it a family affair by setting a goal for what the earnings will fund during your trip. Maybe it’s a dolphin-watching boat trip or indulging in beachside ice creams in Hawaii. Not only do you declutter, but you also amp up the excitement for your upcoming travels.
9. Spend With Cash
These days it’s way too easy to mindlessly swipe a card. Instead, try using cash for your expenses. Feel those banknotes slip through your fingers, and you’ll think twice before spending.
Here’s a quick test. If you find yourself without enough cash to cover a purchase, ask yourself if it’s crucial enough to merit an ATM detour. Often, a bit of laziness kicks in, saving you from a spend you probably didn’t need in the first place. So go ahead, let that ‘too lazy to ATM’ vibe work in favour of your travel fund.
10. Take On One Extra Shift At Work Each Week
Fancy a quick, substantial boost to your travel fund? Consider picking up an extra shift at work each week or so. But—and this is the crucial bit—don’t let that money loiter in your main account.
Calculate what that extra shift amounts to and funnel it straight into your travel fund. By doing this, you give every penny a purpose, and you’re one step closer to your dream getaway. No dilly-dallying; make that money work for your next adventure.
11. Go On A Spending Freeze
Mastered the “no spend” day? How about cranking it up a notch with a full-on spending freeze for a month? Picture this: no eating out, no movies, no clothes shopping, and absolutely no cheeky café stops for a quick latte.
It’s a bit intense, sure, but the financial gain can be huge. A spending freeze challenges you to rethink the “essentials” and makes your travel dreams a lot more attainable, faster. Think of it as a financial detox that comes with the perk of a fatter travel wallet.
12. Cook At Home Instead Of Dining Out
Fancy a night out with mates? How about hosting them at your place instead of booking a table at a restaurant? Make it a potluck-style gathering with an Italian or Asian theme, and let everyone bring a dish. Or just keep it simple with wine and snacks.
Besides the perk of skipping restaurant prices, it’s a fun opportunity to get creative with home decor and ambiance. Put the cash you would’ve spent dining out straight into your travel fund, and toast to future adventures.
13. Take Advantage Of A Rewards Credit Card
A rewards credit card can be a game-changer, especially if travel’s your thing. But, and it’s a big but, only go this route if you can pay off the card in full each month. No one wants interest rates spoiling the party.
On top of the points you earn for spending, many cards offer travel perks like free airport lounge access or complimentary flights. Some even waive international transaction fees. It’s like your credit card is working double-time to get you on that dream trip.
14. Go Hard Collecting Frequent Flyer Points And Miles
Frequent flyer miles are practically currency in the travel world. If you’ve already got a rewards credit card, you’re halfway there. Use it for everyday spending as well and then watch your miles multiply.
Matt and I have been building our points and miles balances for a good number of years now, and let me tell you, it’s saved our family a small fortune. Those reward flights aren’t just a pipe dream—they’re a very attainable travel savings strategy.
Don’t forget the sign-up bonuses either. They can often score you a one-way ticket to paradise—or at least a nice weekend getaway—before you’ve even broken in your card. But as I mentioned before, only do this if you can afford to pay off your credit card in full each month.
15. Fill Your Travel Fund As You Go
Think of your travel fund as a piggy bank for adults—a lot more exciting and a lot less porcelain. Every time you resist that on-sale top or decide to have a quiet night in, transfer what you would’ve spent straight into your travel fund.
And here’s the thing – it doesn’t feel like sacrifice because it’s money you were willing to part with anyway. So, get that fund bursting at the seams. And remember, the fund isn’t just for flights and hotels; it’s for those priceless experiences you’ll have while travelling.
16. Sell Items Online
Ever look around your house and think, “Why do we have so much stuff?” Yeah, me too. Time to declutter and fatten up that travel fund. Selling items online can add a helpful boost of funds to your travel wallet.
From clothes gathering dust in your wardrobe to camping gear you haven’t touched since, well, ever—just sell it. And let’s not forget those baby clothes sitting in the cupboard like keepsakes. They could be someone else’s treasure while adding some extra quid to your holiday fund. Win-win!
17. Start A Fun Side Hustle
Got a knack for crafting? Or perhaps you enjoy driving around town? Consider launching a side hustle. Even a few hours a week can make a significant difference to your travel fund.
Whether you opt for an Uber Eats shift or open an Etsy shop, a side gig can be not just profitable but also fun. The trick is to choose something that won’t feel like work. Before you know it, you’re making extra cash and feeding your wanderlust. What’s not to love?
18. Get Crafty And Make A Vision Board
Vision boards may sound a bit woo-woo, but they’re game-changers. Sticking up photos of your dream destinations or activities can keep your travel goals front and centre.
Get specific. Instead of just a generic beach photo, how about a snapshot of snorkelling in the Maldives? Or a pic of Uluru for your road trip around Australia? Tack on some inspiring travel quotes or a picture of sushi if you’re Japan-bound.
This board won’t literally put money into your travel fund, but it’ll make you think twice before dipping into it. A little motivation and focus can fast-track your next adventure.
19. Re-Assess Your Living Situation
Okay, brace yourselves—this one’s a doozy. Ever considered downsizing your home? Before you balk at the idea, think about the rooms gathering dust. Do you really need that extra bedroom?
Imagine the savings. You could drastically cut rent or mortgage payments, which over time, adds up to a whole lot of holiday funds.
Maybe scope out a more budget-friendly neighbourhood nearby. Not only could this be a huge money-saver, but it’s also a lesson in shedding excess. Living with less might just give you more freedom to explore the world.
20. Pack Your Food Everywhere!
The trusty packed lunch—a classic mum move, right? But don’t scoff just yet. Swinging by food trucks or casual diners can burn a hole in your pocket faster than you can say “extra guac, please.”
Why not pack a picnic instead? And we’re not talking about a dull spread. Fill your basket with gourmet items from the supermarket, and you’ll enjoy a fabulous meal for half the cost.
21. Give Paid Fitness Memberships A Miss
Look, boutique pilates studios are adorable—I get it. But guess what? YouTube is teeming with free workout videos that cover everything from pilates to HIIT.
If paying for a class is genuinely the only way you’ll commit to exercising, then by all means, stick with it. But if you’re keen on padding your travel fund, consider putting that membership on hold.
It’s worth a trial run. Your bank account will thank you, and you might just discover a new way to stay fit on the cheap.
22. Meal Plan
Meal planning isn’t just for the hyper-organised among us. It’s a genuine winner for your budget. Know what you’re going to eat for the week, jot it down, and you’ll spend less on groceries. It’s that simple.
Impulse buys often happen because you’re wandering the supermarket aisles wondering what to cook. A solid meal plan takes away the guesswork and the temptation.
So, jot down that plan and watch as your weekly shop gets leaner and your travel fund gets fatter.
23. Grocery Shop Online
Switching to online grocery shopping can be a lifesaver, not just for your sanity but also for your budget. It’s far easier to keep an eye on your spending total as you add items to your cart.
Let’s face it, shopping with kids is, well, a unique challenge. So why not swap the in-store tantrums for a peaceful session with your laptop and a cuppa? You’re less likely to impulse buy, and you get to do it all from the comfort of your home.
24. Downgrade Your Car
Do you really, truly, need that top-of-the-range 4WD, or could you get by with something a bit more modest? It’s worth considering, especially if you’re not towing a boat or using it for work purposes.
The trick here is to find a balance between cost and necessity. Look for a car that’s both safe and comfortable for your family, but without all the bells and whistles that rack up the price. A slightly cheaper model could save you heaps in the long run, not just on the initial cost but also on maintenance.
25. Allocate Spending Money For The Week
Ever heard of adult pocket money? It might sound a bit schoolyard, but hear me out. Each week, give yourself and your partner a set amount of cash to spend on whatever you like. Once it’s gone, that’s it until next week.
This approach isn’t just about curbing spending; it’s also about revealing what you genuinely value. It’s like a game that challenges your willpower and rewards you with insights into your spending habits.
Give it a whirl. You’ll be surprised how enlightening—and fun—this exercise can be.
26. Save Your Coins
The ol’ coin jar trick has been around since, well, coins. But guess what? It still works like a charm. Grab a jar and slap a pic of your dream destination on it. Want to make it even more specific? Add a picture of that snorkeling adventure or spa day you’re eyeing.
Get the kids involved too. Let them take ownership of dropping coins into the jar. It turns saving into a fun, family-wide activity.
Start digging around those sofa cushions, and let the change pile up. Every coin brings you a step closer to your next family adventure.
27. Use A Savings Challenge Chart
Alright, who doesn’t love a good chart? Let’s gamify the saving process. Create a savings challenge chart and put it somewhere everyone can see—like the fridge or the family bulletin board.
Tick off milestones as you reach them, like “Saved $50” or “Skipped Takeaway Night.” Get the kids in on the action too; they’ll love the satisfaction of ticking off a box.
A visual aid can do wonders for morale. As you see those ticks multiply, you’ll all feel the excitement building. Your next family adventure is just a few ticks away!
28. It’s Okay To Say No
Look, FOMO is real, but so is your dream of a family trip you’ll all remember. It’s okay to politely decline an invite if it’ll help you stash away some more travel dough.
Missing one night out or a pricier event won’t lead to social exile. Your true mates will get it. So go ahead, liberate yourself with a polite “no” now, for an ecstatic “yes” to your dream destination later.
29. It’s All About Mindset
Saving money is a mental marathon, for sure. Those temptations lurking around every corner can make it feel like you’re walking through a minefield.
Here’s where your vision boards and savings charts become your allies. Surround yourself with them as daily nudges towards your goal.
The trick is flipping the script. Whenever you feel like you’re missing out, remind yourself of what you’re actually gaining. Skipped dining out? Picture that as a delicious meal on a beach in Thailand and chuck that saved money into your travel fund. Ditching that café brunch can turn into a white water rafting adventure in Bali for the whole family. Yes, you’re making sacrifices, but each one adds a new chapter to your upcoming travel story. It’s not about what you’re losing; it’s all about what you’re gaining. So do what you can to make that switch in mindset.
30. Know Your Savings Goals
General goals like “save as much as possible” are about as useful as a chocolate teapot.
Get down to the nitty-gritty. How much will that dream holiday cost you? Factor in flights, accommodation, activities, and those little extras. Write down a precise figure. For instance, $4,780 isn’t just a number; it’s your passport to adventure.
Use a ‘saving for a trip’ calculator to help you establish a detailed savings goal, and you’ll find it immensely satisfying to see each penny saved inching you closer to that magic number. Your goals then become more than achievable—they’re inevitable when you know exactly what you’re aiming for.
How To Always Have Money To Travel
Want to keep that travel fund consistently healthy? Besides the 30 tips we’ve just explored, there are timeless approaches to ensure you’re never short on travel cash.
Let’s briefly unfold three simple yet effective methods that guarantee you’re ever-ready for your next family journey.
Work From A Budget
Let’s get real: If you’re keen on boosting that travel fund, the first move is crafting a solid budget. It’s all about having clarity over each dollar spent and earned.
Deduct your monthly expenses from your income, and voila, you’ll see the sum you can allocate for travel, emergency funds, or debt repayment.
Discovering you have more to save than you initially thought? Fantastic, start planning that getaway! On the flip side, if the numbers are tighter, that’s okay. Now you’ve got the insight to rework your finances, ensuring you fly guilt-free and debt-free.
Open A Separate Account For Your Travel Fund
Separate your travel fund from your regular accounts. When it’s isolated, you’re far less tempted to dip into it for other expenses.
There are two ways to go about this. Either stow it in a separate bank altogether, out of sight and out of mind, or keep it visible within your primary banking app as a motivator. You’ll know which approach best fuels your saving habits.
So, decide how you want to manage this travel fund, and get that account set up. It’s a step you won’t regret.
Automate Your Travel Savings
Okay, this is a game-changing strategy that works wonders for our family: automate your travel savings. It’s a clever way to trick yourself into saving money.
Here’s the deal: Instead of waiting until the end of the month to see what’s left for savings, flip the script. Set up an automatic transfer to your travel fund the day after payday, whether that’s monthly or biweekly. It’s paying yourself first, making travel a priority, not an afterthought. This simple switch can make a world of difference in reaching your travel goals.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Travel On Borrowed Money
Travelling on borrowed money just isn’t worth it.
Imagine returning from an amazing trip only to be greeted by looming credit card or personal loan debt. It’s a surefire way to tarnish those travel memories.
Instead, how about returning home with a new adventure in mind, one you can work toward straight away without financial burdens?
If you haven’t saved up enough money for your vacation yet, consider delaying the trip if possible. But if that’s not an option, find ways to make the trip more affordable. Shorten the duration, opt for budget-friendly accommodation, or explore a less expensive destination. Your wallet—and future adventures—will thank you.
FAQs
How Can I Save Money For Travelling?
The best way to save for travel starts with creating a budget tailored to your income and expenses. Automate your travel fund by setting up regular transfers after payday. Open a separate account to resist the temptation of dipping into your savings. Cut non-essential expenses, reassess bills, and find creative ways to boost your travel fund.
How Can I Spend The Least Amount Of Money On A Trip?
Spending less on a trip involves smart planning and adopting a budget travel mindset. Look for budget-friendly accommodations, consider hostels or guesthouses, and explore cheaper dining options like street food or cooking yourself. Use public transportation or walk instead of expensive taxis. Prioritize free or low-cost attractions and activities at your destination. Lastly, avoid impulse shopping and stay within your predetermined travel budget.
How Can I Save Money For Vacation In 6 Months?
Saving for a vacation in six months requires discipline, but there are easy ways to save money for a trip. Start by setting a specific savings goal based on your desired trip cost. Create a monthly budget that allocates a portion of your income to go straight into your travel fund. Consider extra income sources, like a side hustle, to boost your savings. Track your progress regularly, and adjust your spending habits as needed to meet your target. You can do it!
How Much Money Should You Save Before Travelling?
The amount you should save before travelling varies based on your destination, travel style, and duration. To figure out how to save up for travel, start with a good rule of thumb: have enough to cover your flights, accommodation, daily expenses, and a cushion for emergencies. Research the costs associated with your trip, create a detailed budget, and save accordingly. It’s also wise to have at least a few months’ worth of household expenses saved up for an emergency before you take off.
How Much Money Do You Realistically Need To Travel?
The amount you realistically need to travel depends on several factors, including your destination, travel style, and personal preferences. Budget-conscious travelers can explore destinations on a tight budget, while luxury travelers may spend significantly more. Research your destination, create a detailed budget, and aim to save enough to comfortably cover your planned expenses, including accommodations, meals, activities, and unexpected costs.
Is It Possible to Travel on a Tight Budget?
Absolutely! Traveling on a tight budget is entirely possible. With careful planning, frugal choices, and a bit of creativity, you can have incredible travel experiences without breaking the bank. This blog post provides many unique ways to help you save money for your next family adventure.
What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Saving for Travel?
One common mistake is not setting a specific savings goal. Without a clear target, it’s challenging to stay motivated. Additionally, relying on credit cards for travel expenses can lead to debt, which we want to avoid at all costs. The importance of budgeting and saving before your trip is paramount to a stress-free vacation.
How Can I Make Saving Money for Travel a Habit?
Making saving money for travel a habit requires discipline and consistency. Set up automatic transfers to your travel fund after each payday. Create a dedicated savings account specifically for saving money to travel, which helps prevent temptation. Regularly review your budget and look for additional ways to cut expenses and boost your savings.
Are There Any Special Tips for Traveling with a Family on a Budget?
Traveling with a family on a budget is absolutely possible. Look for family-friendly accommodations, use public transportation, and plan budget-friendly activities. Engage your kids in the process, emphasizing the importance of saving for family adventures. A family trip on a budget is special for every member of the family, and worth every sacrifice made.
Wrapping It Up: Creative Ways To Save Money For Travel
In the whirlwind of daily life, it’s easy to push those travel dreams to the back burner. But not anymore! We’ve navigated through 30 unique ways to save money to travel more, each tailored to fit your busy, family-focused lifestyle. From re-assessing your bills to hosting a garage sale and everything in between, you’ve got a comprehensive toolkit to kickstart your travel fund.
Now, it’s time to take action and ensure those dreams become a reality. Head over to my post on how to afford your next family vacation to discover timeless methods for consistently nourishing your travel fund.
Remember, your dream family adventure is closer than you think. By following these tips and staying committed to your travel goals, you’ll create lasting memories with your loved ones, all while staying financially savvy. Don’t wait any longer—let’s make those travel dreams take flight!
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