Travel is an expensive hobby and for individuals who have a strong desire to see the world, passion alone is not enough when your pockets are empty. This guide contains a comprehensive guide on money-saving tips to plan ahead.
Travel Money Saving Tips Everyone Should Follow
Success in any area of life starts with clear vision and intentional planning, and travel is no different. In 2025, I was able to visit four countries. This was made possible by the travel vision board I created at the end of 2024. I also joined the live vision board session hosted by travel creator Jessica Ufuoma, where I was able to visualise my travel goals on a living document.
Before thinking about the financial side of travel, you need a plan for where you want to go. Ask yourself: How many countries do I want to visit in 2026? How do I plan to fund these trips? Do I want to travel solo or travel with friends and family? How much can I realistically afford? Setting clear and SMART goals gives direction to your money and how you spend it, and paves the way for the next step in making your travel dreams a reality.
Start with A Clear Travel Vision Plan
It’s disingenuous to simply say “save enough money and then travel the world” when you may not be making enough.
Instead, start by getting a clear picture of your income, expenses, debts, savings, and investments. My top recommendation is to use the EMMA Finance App, which lets you connect your bank accounts for free (there is also a paid service with more features) and track your net worth in one place.
Once you understand your finances, you can make smarter money decisions, like reducing unnecessary spending or allocating funds for a travel fund.
If your income isn’t enough to fund your travel goals, consider up-skilling to qualify for a higher-paying role, exploring new high-paying job opportunities and adding side income streams.
If you're in the UK, don’t forget to check your credit score on Experian. A good credit rating can help you access travel-friendly credit cards like the American Express (AMEX) credit card, or even better deals on flights and accommodation.
Start Saving Money and Living Life Under the 50-30-20 Rule
Once you have a clear picture of your finances, your job, and your total income, it’s time to move on to actually saving for your travel dreams.The first step is to future-proof your income.
The 50-30-20 rule is a budgeting method that means splitting your money into three categories of 50% for essentials/needs, 30% for lifestyle and wants, 20% for savings. You can follow this rule and allocate 20% towards your travel fund or follow a rule that works for you.
I recommend using the Lloyds Bank Budgeting Calculator to compare your current expenses against your earnings. This would give you a clear view of your income, debt, expenses, savings and investments.
Next, map out the estimated cost of achieving your travel goals based on your travel vision board. Knowing the numbers makes your goals feel achievable, not just a distant dream on paper on a document.
I recommend using Monzo’s savings pots to keep your travel fund separate and remember to pay yourself first on every payday. You can even name your pot “China Money 2026” for extra motivation.
Use an Amex Credit Card for your daily spending and bigger purchases. The points you rack up can later be redeemed for flights, hotels, or experiences. I paid my law school tuition fees using my credit card and collected points for 'free' return flight tickets. If you are planning a wedding, returning to university, buying a car, or just getting a cup of coffee, as AMEX says, "don't live life without it (a credit card)"
Shop through cashback platforms like Rakuten, TopCashback, or Quidco. Everyday purchases can give you free cashbacks that add up over time.
Learn a language before you travel. Knowing basic phrases helps you communicate and bargain like a local. I recommend TalkPal AI.
Book package holidays whenever possible. I recommend Love Holidays.
Lastly and most importantly, eat healthy, keep fit and think happy everyday.
Everyday money saving tips that I use and recommend
