Draft

It's often a misconception with people that you need to be rich to travel the world. Let me tell you now... you don't have to be a millionaire to travel! You also definitely don't need to have wealthy parents that will fund your travels either. Instead, you simply need to be willing to work hard and make a few sacrifices in other aspects of your life. You'll be surprised at how easy it is after you start!

I've always been good at saving. I started saving for my first car when I was 16 by working throughout the summer on a farm. I then saved for my three-month backpacking trip around Central Europe and Asia by putting money aside from my internship and scholarships whilst studying at university. 

If you're planning a trip soon and don't know how to start, here are my 10 top tips for saving money to travel:

The only way you'll ever save enough money for that dream trip is by doing, rather than just saying. Even if it's only a small amount of money, it's a start and better than nothing! The trip you want to take will then feel real and you'll hopefully be more motivated to add money to your savings pot.

To go alongside the first point, start a dedicated travel fund and don't allow yourself to spend that money on other things. I guarantee after you start to see your savings go up, you'll want to put more in as you feel your trip getting closer and closer.

If travelling is important to you then make saving a priority! I often find that when people say "I don't have the money", what they really mean is "I already spent my money on things I value more". Of course this is fine if you're not interested in travelling. However, if you do want to travel and don't think you can, have a think about where you spend your money and if it's really on what you want. If you're desperate to go on that trip you've always been dreaming about, put money into a savings account every single month straight after payday. That way you can't be tempted to spend your money on other things.

A really simple way to see what you spend money on and if you can cut back on certain things is by tracking your expenses. Create a spreadsheet, or there are apps that can do it for you, and you'll quickly see where you could save money. 

It's crazy how much money people spend on eating out without even realising. If you spend £3 on a coffee on your way to work each morning, that's roughly £60 a month you could be saving for your travels. If you live in the UK that's the cost of a return flight to somewhere else in Europe! Try reducing the amount the amount of times you go out for dinner and you'll be amazed at how much money you could save by cooking at home instead.

We live in a world where so many people want the latest technology and buy new things when they don't need to. When you're saving for a trip and a pair of new shoes tempts you whilst shopping, really think about if you actually need them! It all goes back to making travelling a priority. Which would you want more? Those new pair of shoes, or an extra £40 for your trip to South America...

I appreciate that this idea isn't suitable for everyone, but moving back into your parents' house is an easy way to save plenty of money. Suggest cooking meals for them or helping out around the house in return. With no rent to pay, you'll have your trip booked in no time at all. 

If moving back in with your parents isn't an option, consider getting a roommate! You can split the cost of your rent and hopefully save more for your trip. You could also consider renting a room in a shared house. It's a great way to save money and make some new friends at the same time.

By telling family and friends your plans to go on a trip, you'll be more committed to saving up the money. This is because you've actively told someone that you're going to do it! Also, when your birthday or Christmas comes around, try asking for travel vouchers to go towards your trip. Vouchers for airline companies or a new backpack can really help you to reach your end goal.

Another way to get a little extra cash is by selling any old tech items you no longer use, or even old clothes or shoes that are still in good condition. I sold an old camera and an iPad for £100 which paid for a weekend away to Amsterdam!