For many people, the idea of travel is amazing, but the execution is more of a challenge. If you long to see other parts of the world, finding the time and money to do so can seem impossible. Traveling doesn’t have to be out of reach, there are ways to make it more affordable on a realistic budget.
Start a Travel Fund
The simple fact is, it is nearly impossible to save for something without making it a priority. If you just have a general idea that you would like to take a trip, you will probably find your savings account isn’t growing very fast. Set up a separate account and take a hard look at your budget.
How much can you afford to set aside from each pay period and deposit into this fund? Be realistic, if you make dramatic cuts that affect other areas of your budget, you won’t be able to leave the money untouched in this account.
Once you start dipping into it to meet your basic expenses, it will be difficult to stop. Instead, look at your discretionary spending and determine ways to reasonably cut back.
Redirect some of those funds into your vacation account with each paycheck. Don’t wait and deposit what is leftover, because it will likely be spent somewhere else. Put money into this account just like you would pay a bill.
Look for Ways to Beef Up This Account
Once you have a plan in place, look for ways to speed the process along. Quick and easy changes, like refinancing your student loans, can free up money each month and cut years off your education debt. The process only takes a few minutes, and you can direct the money you save into your travel fund.
Taking on a part-time job is another way to boost your travel fund. While taking on a second job may not sound that appealing, when you can dedicate 100 percent of those earnings to your travel account, you may find you don’t mind it after all. Because you aren’t using these funds to pay your basic living expenses, even picking up one shift a week will provide a solid boost.
Choose Affordable Ways to Travel
Selecting less expensive flights and traveling during shoulder seasons, or directly before or after the busy season, are both ways to cut the costs of your trip without cutting your enjoyment. Spend time reading about your destination. Use online as well as print resources to learn more about the areas, popular tourist destinations, less common but fun options, and other information.
By spending time becoming acquainted with the area, you do a few things. You can plan a trip that is filled with activities you enjoy and you don’t waste time while on your trip deciding on an itinerary. Taking time to plan your trip also helps to spread out your enjoyment.
Spending a little time a few evenings a week reading up on the area and visiting related internet forums is a relaxing way to end the day and helps keep your motivation high.
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