Everyone knows that travel is not cheap, especially when you're heart is pulling you to international places. Because it's expensive, it can sway people to not travel or to say "I'll go there in the future". The good news is, the future can be right now because it doesn't have to drain your bank account! There are fun and creative ways to save money and travel, and I've compiled a list to help you get started.
1. Pick up a fun side gig
Do you have a special talent or hobby? Maybe you love to write, draw, take photographs, knit, or create videos. Whatever it may be, there are many ways that you can sell your hobby to help create a little side income that you can put aside specifically for traveling. And who knows, maybe that side hustle will turn into a full blown business!
2. Create a travel change jar
The trusty change jar. I know what you might be thinking...who pays with cash anymore? In the age of credit cards and pay with your smart phone, you may not remember the last time you paid with cash. But maybe it's time to start again to get that change jar going. Better yet, put a $5 bill in it every week and that will start to add up quickly!
3. Rack up miles and/or credit card points
If you don't want to start paying with cash again, try switching out your current debit or credit card for one that earns you rewards. Many credit cards give points in exchange for purchases made on that card which can be redeemed for free airline tickets, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. You don't have to stick with a specific airline or hotel brand? There are other credit cards that just earn you points that can be redeemed for any airline, hotel, or other fun perks. Just make sure you pay it off every month!
4. Sell your stuff
Have you ever walked into your bedroom or living room and just thought, "I have so much STUFF that I don't need!" Because I definitely have. Take that stuff that you don't need anymore and sell it to make a little extra money! Go through your clothes and if you haven't worn them in a year, get rid of them. Do you really need that old Xbox now that you have the new Xbox One? No way! Sell it. You won't need this stuff anyway once you're traveling.
5. Make a separate savings account just for travel
This last idea is the least time consuming of all and can be very simple. Have a savings account dedicated to travel expenses and have part of each paycheck directly put into that account. You don't even have to transfer the money yourself. Having it as a savings account keeps you from being able to easily spend that money because you won't have a debit card for it and it won't be sitting on your counter in a change jar. Once this is set up, just watch it stack up and start planning for that next great adventure!
Don't let the high cost of travel deter you from getting out there and seeing the world. Travel, adventure, wanderlust - they're good for the soul and should be a priority! So choose a creative way to start saving for travel and start planning right away. That money will add up more quickly than you think!
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