Can we just agree that the most tedious part of traveling is the part about saving for that particular trip? Good, we agree! I assume... But even though it's not my favorite part of planning a vacation, I'd still like to share how we do it here at home, following from my last Orlando Prep-post about planning.
First, we make some sort of folder allocated to all of our files for planning (again, based on the previous blog post). I prefer to use Google Drive since I can access it from multiple devices and it is always easy to find a number or something like that if you need it or get an idea.
Google Drive is basically a free version of the Microsoft Office pack. You can have Docs (Word), Sheets (Excel) and even make their version of a PowerPoint - you know, in case you need to hold a presentation for your husband as to why you naturally should spend 400$ on lightsabers!
We then make a Sheet to have tables over our expected expenses for hotels, flights, tickets, spending money, ESTA, etc. After that we calculate how much money is needed in total, divide it by the months left to save (remember the month your traveling - it still counts since you'll be spending less money "at home" as you will be traveling). And then for us, we look at the monthly needed amount and divide it between us and find out how much money I need to put aside and how much Jacob needs to put aside (we have a very different looking paycheck so it differs between us).
Then to make savings easier, we have a specified joint savings account. This just brings so much overview, being able to see the total amount of money saved so far and not just your own portion.
A good tip is to always save a little more than you need. Especially when starting early; prices might change and it is good to be prepared for that. Plus it gives you some more wiggle room, regarding vacation activities.
I might make a savings template that you can use on your own trip budget and savings overview. For now, I'll leave it at this. Happy Tuesday!
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