The question I get asked weekly: ‘How do you afford to travel?'

This is a question I often see posted on Facebook groups and it is also asked when I mention that I have been overseas twice within the last two years. Saving money is something I struggled with in the beginning, I have learnt some tricks over overtime to get my savings up and have identified what my needs are and what I can sacrifice in order to save money.

1. Overall I work extremely hard

I have two jobs, one in administration and the other I work at a trampoline venue. I often go for weeks on a 7-day roster where if I’m lucky ill have half a day off so I have time to meal prep and just sit at home and relax or catch up on uni work.

2. I save every cent

I choose not to have children and I choose to sacrifice some freedom and remain living at home with my parents, both of these decisions are often criticised but personally both are the easiest ways for me to save money. I don’t go clothes shopping, I don’t always drink when I go out with friends and I do all of my grocery shopping online so I know exactly how much I’m spending and I wont buy any unnecessary food.

3. Meal Prep

I eat a plant based diet therefore it is very cheap for me to buy food, I can easily send a maximum of $50 per week for breakfast, lunch and dinners. I always plan my dinners out, as I am cooking for myself I usually have the same dinner two nights in a row and I always take my own lunch to work.

4. I make saving a priority and I actually enjoy it

I get a buzz from saving my money and seeing the amount in my account go up every month. It truely feels good to save and when you've worked hard for it a holiday is a great reward.

5. Keep an eye out for deals

I normally book my trips when there are sales on, for guided group tours I have been able to get a past traveller discount on my bookings. I also book through a travel agent who does an amazing job at getting me good deals on flights and accommodation.

6. Open a 2nd bank account

I have two bank accounts, spending and savings. As soon as I get paid half of my pay gets deposited into my savings, I then put aside what money ill need for the fortnight then transfer the remaining money over. My savings account takes up to a day to transfer money to my spendings account and also doesn’t allow me to make transfers on weekends so I am not tempted to spend money on last minute social events.

7. Set a goal

When I start saving money again after a trip I normally set a goal which I need to meet before I book another trip or buy anything significant, this can be anywhere from $1000-$6000 for myself personally. I find if I have a goal in mind I really put the effort into reaching my target.

I would love to hear about your savings tips, let me know in the comments below!