If you're tight on cash, you may feel like you have to go into debt to have fun. However, you can save money for adventures in other ways. Consider the following ideas.
Eliminate Unnecessary Expenses
One of the easiest ways to save for adventures is to get rid of unnecessary expenses. For example, maybe you have a Netflix subscription but never watch Netflix. Or you might have a gym membership but hardly ever go to the gym.
Consider if you really need to keep paying for something. Look for free alternatives, split subscriptions with your family, or consolidate things. That way, you can set aside the extra cash you now have and use that for your next trip.
Reduce Living Costs
Another way to save money is to lower your cost of living. You can do this in a few ways, such as by getting a roommate so that you can split rent and utilities. If you don't want to live with someone else, you can move to a smaller house or apartment.
And if nothing's tying you to a specific place, you could move to a cheaper city. Especially if you live in LA or New York, moving somewhere cheaper can save a lot of money. Not only will you save on rent, but you could also cut down on your grocery costs.
Sell Your Car
You might also want to sell your car and set aside some of the money you get from the sale. If you need a car of some sort, look for a cheaper vehicle. Look for lower auto loan rates so that you don't have to pay a ton for your new car.
Of course, if you don't need a car, don't buy a new one. Then, you can save all of the money from selling your current one. Or you could spend some of it on a bus pass so that you can still get around town without paying as much each month. If you want to move as well, look for a more walkable city so that you can use free transportation methods.
Set Up a CD
If you have money in the bank, consider using some of it to set up a certificate of deposit (CD). A CD is part savings account and part investment. You commit to saving your money for a set term, and you usually get a higher rate than you would with a regular savings account.
This is a great choice if you want to go on an adventure in a year or two. You can get a shorter-term CD and earn a few dollars each month to help increase your account balance. Then, you'll have a bit more money to spend on your trip.
Don't Touch Your Tax Return
When you get your tax return, it can be tempting to spend it on something fancy. But you should put that money into savings instead. That's easy money, and it may not be money you were expecting to get back.
Don't let yourself go on a wild shopping spree. Put it in the bank and use a CD to help make some money off that tax return. When you're ready to go on your next adventure, you may have hundreds or thousands of extra dollars to spend.
Start a Side Hustle
Sometimes, you can't save more money without making more money. If that's the case, consider starting a side hustle. You could drive for Uber or DoorDash, or you could tutor kids in your neighborhood.
Think about your skills, and start telling others about your service or product. It can take time to make a lot of extra money, but you can save what you do make. Be sure some of it goes toward taxes, but you can use the rest for the adventures you have planned.
Going on adventures can be fun but also expensive. Luckily, there are multiple ways you can save for your next trip or fun day out.
