LIFESTYLETravelHOW TO SAVE FOR THAT DREAM VACATION

HOW TO SAVE FOR THAT DREAM VACATION

Firefighter Lifestyle, Vacation - CRACKYL MAGAZINE
By Michelle Bogle

Is there a trip you dream of going on, like hunting, camping or even abroad with your spouse but you just never seem to have the funds? The secret is that you DO have the money.

It is just a matter of finding it in your budget. Follow these steps and you’ll be up, up and away before you can say, well, up, up and away.

The first step is to ensure you have your basic expenses in order. You should be covering all of your essentials, debt and investments each month. After everything is covered and there is money left over, you are free to spend as you please. 

It is important to observe where your expendable income usually ends up. By tracking receipts or limiting these expenses to a specific account, you can begin to see where the bulk of your excess money goes and what you can begin to limit. Items like daily coffee runs versus making it at home or craft beer on draught versus an economic value pack can add up substantially over time. 

Apply your new-found frugality to all aspects. Once you start limiting your spending in certain areas, why not extend it to as many as possible. Buy in bulk or buy generic, borrow tools instead of buying, cut energy costs, cancel monthly subscriptions that you never use. Continue that frugality as much as possible to repurpose more of your hard-earned dollars.

To further track your progress, make a separate account for recreation expenses. By placing your money in a separate account, you will not only have a way to safe hold it from spending but you will also have a physical representation of your progress as it proceeds to grow. 

It might also be worth it to invest in rewards programs. Loyalty cards are often free and earn you long-term savings and discounts. The hassle of carrying an extra card in your wallet or even in your car’s center console can pay off in the long run when you begin saving money. Some credit cards even have rewards programs that give impressive incentives like sign-up bonuses, cash back, 2x points on specific purchases, including items you already buy, such as gas and groceries. 

Once you are able to achieve your dream trip, continue your frugality to keep the cost low. It might even be beneficial to be frugal on the trip itself. If you choose cheaper accommodation or are able to book in the off-season, then you might be able to save yourself a substantial amount of money and make the trip more affordable.  

Whatever route you choose to save for your trip, just remember that it is attainable and you have certainly earned it. The first step is to get started — so get saving! 

Photo By Pexel Images

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