If you’ve got a big trip coming up—whether it’s a two-week blowout in Vegas or a six-month backpacking adventure—you’re probably thinking about how to save money for it. For me, that’s been a big focus as I prepare for my solo backpacking trip, set to begin on March 10, 2025.
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Saving money isn’t always easy, but with the right strategies, it’s manageable. While I’m fortunate not to have certain financial pressures, like rent or dependents, I’ve still had to rethink my spending habits to reach my goals. By sharing how I save, I hope to offer some ideas to help you plan for your next big adventure too.
Setting Clear Saving Goals
Before you start learning how to save money, it’s essential to define your target—having a clear goal gives you direction and motivation. For me, that target is £10,000 to fund nine months of backpacking across Southeast Asia. It might sound ambitious, but with careful planning and discipline, I’m on track to achieve it.
I calculated this figure by researching estimated costs for accommodation, food, transport, and activities in the region. Tools like ChatGPT have been invaluable for building a rough budget. For example, I simply asked, “How much should I budget for a nine-month backpacking trip across Southeast Asia?” From there, I adjusted based on personal preferences and priorities.
To stay organised, I created a simple spreadsheet to track my finances. Each month, I log my expected income, expenses, and savings. For instance, I know December will see higher spending due to Christmas, so I’ve adjusted my targets accordingly. Breaking your goal into monthly or weekly milestones makes the process more manageable and less overwhelming.
Takeaway:
Set a savings goal that’s specific and realistic for your trip. Break it down into smaller milestones and track your progress regularly. Even small wins, like hitting a £10 surplus, can boost your confidence and keep you motivated.
Cutting Everyday Expenses
When figuring out how to save money for a big trip, small changes to daily habits can lead to significant savings over time.
One of my biggest adjustments has been cutting back on nights out. As a sociable 22-year-old, I could easily spend over £100 on a single night out. Reducing these outings has made a noticeable difference to my savings, not to mention my overall health.
Another simple change is rethinking daily expenses. Meal deals, for example, are now £5 (blasphemy). By preparing packed lunches instead, I could save £25 a week. Small changes like this can add up over months.
It’s important to balance saving with maintaining your happiness. If a Netflix subscription helps you unwind, keep it. On the other hand, cancelling an unused gym membership or opting for a home workout could free up extra cash.
Takeaway:
Look for ways to reduce unnecessary expenses without cutting out what makes you happy. Small, consistent changes to your daily habits can build up to big savings over time.
Finding Additional Income Streams
Sometimes saving for your dream trip isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about finding new ways to bring in extra cash. Exploring additional income streams can make a real difference, no matter your current circumstances.
For me, selling unwanted clothes on Vinted was surprisingly effective. Clearing out my wardrobe didn’t just make space—it earned me £36, which could easily stretch to a few nights’ accommodation or several street food meals in Southeast Asia.
Other options could include taking up a weekend job, picking up extra shifts at work, or offering services to neighbours—like mowing lawns or babysitting. If you have specific skills, such as tutoring or creating handmade items, consider turning them into a small side hustle. Even hobbies can bring in some extra income.
Small efforts add up over time. A bit of extra income here and there can cover more than you’d expect when travelling somewhere affordable.
Takeaway:
Get creative with how you save money. Selling items, taking on a side job, or turning your skills into cash can help you reach your travel fund goals faster.
Smarter Travel Planning
A little forethought can go a long way when it comes to saving money for travel. By planning smartly, you can set yourself up for a budget-friendly adventure without compromising on experiences.
Take Southeast Asia, for example—a region I’ve chosen for my backpacking trip next year. It’s affordable, with dorm rooms often costing less than £10 per night and delicious street food available for just a few pounds. Transport across the region is also easy on the wallet, especially with tools like 12Go, which lets you compare options for buses, trains, and ferries.
Planning doesn’t mean losing spontaneity; it’s about making informed choices to get the most out of your trip. Travel apps can be a lifesaver here. For instance:
Skyscanner helps you find the cheapest flights to your chosen destinations.
Hostelworld makes it easy to book affordable accommodation while connecting with fellow travellers.
If you’re looking for more tools, check out my list of travel apps to streamline every aspect of your trip.
By choosing a budget-friendly destination and using these tools, you can take the pressure off your finances while maximising the joy of your adventure.
Takeaway:
Smart travel planning is a key step when learning how to save money. Budget-friendly destinations and the right tools can help make every penny count, giving you the freedom to enjoy the journey.
Staying Motivated During the Saving Process
Saving for a big adventure can feel like a marathon, not a sprint. Staying motivated is essential to learning how to save money effectively and reach your goals without losing momentum.
For me, it helps to focus on the memories I’ll create during my trip. Swapping an expensive night out for a cosy video game evening isn’t just about saving—it’s about learning how to save money in ways that bring long-term benefits. Visualising the adventure ahead—exploring vibrant markets or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints—makes the sacrifices feel worthwhile.
One key tip for how to save money successfully is setting clear goals and breaking them into smaller, manageable milestones. For example, I’m aiming for £10,000 by March 2025 and have set monthly savings targets to track my progress. Watching the numbers grow steadily over time keeps me motivated and reassures me that I’m moving in the right direction.
It’s also important to plan for setbacks. Unexpected expenses can crop up, and some months might be harder than others. Instead of feeling discouraged, adjust your budget where possible and celebrate small wins, like hitting a savings milestone or sticking to your plan for an entire month.
Takeaway:
Motivation is key when learning how to save money. Focus on your future adventures, set achievable milestones, and allow yourself occasional treats to make the process enjoyable and sustainable. Balance is the key to staying on track and maintaining your happiness along the way.
Conclusion
Saving for your next big adventure is a journey in itself. It requires discipline, creativity, and sometimes a few sacrifices, but the reward of experiencing the world is worth every effort. From setting clear goals to finding new income streams and planning smartly, each step brings you closer to the trip of your dreams.
For me, the prospect of backpacking through Southeast Asia is a constant motivator. It’s not just about the places I’ll see but the freedom and personal growth that travel brings. Learning how to save money isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about investing in experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.
If you’re still working out how to approach your trip, take a look at my post on how to plan your first backpacking trip. It’s packed with insights and tips from my own planning process.
Ultimately, the path to saving for travel is personal. Find what works for you, stay focused on your goals, and most importantly, enjoy the process. After all, the journey begins long before you board the plane.
Safe travels,
Tom
