i am having a hard time trying to save money for my trip on the train to calif in november, what should i do.?

Public Comments

1. I sometimes have trouble saving money too. You should have a spot to save your money, and write yourself a note, reminding you every time you go to reach for it, why it's there, and how important saving it is to you. Just a suggestion.
2. Get a tin can, everyday put in 2 dollars. If you fail to do it everyday, you have to put in 5 extra dollars. It's all a matter of determination. The 2 dollars everyday will add up for your vacation in November.
3. I don't know how old you are but if possible get a job or even two. Don't go out to bars or restaurants. Find free ways to have fun - lots of cities have free events and since it's summer you can also go to parks or lakes for an afternoon. Put your money either in a bank account (but they will charge fees and pay little interest) or, if you have good self control, keep it in a jar at home where you can see it grow. Of course don't do this unless you know it will be safe! If you are worried that you may spend it before November, give it to someone you trust COMPLETELY like a parent or other close relative... but I would NOT give it to a friend. Money tends to burn a hole in people's pockets. If you're tempted to spend it, just keep your eyes on the prize - a trip to california that you will never forget and will be able to spend some extra money on. Bon Voyage!
4. There really are two ways to go about this: 1. saving money before your trip 2. saving money while traveling for #1 - think about things that you spend money on now, like food, clothes, entertainment, rent, gas, etc. Think about ways to save money on the items that you have to buy, and think about ways to convince yourself not to spend money on the optional items. If you buy yourself a coffee everyday, decide which is more important - buying that coffee, or buying a cheaper coffee, and saving that little bit of money, or just saving all that money and going without coffee. For things that you have to pay - like groceries, or gas - think about ways to make your money stretch farther. take advantage of sales, and combine your driving trips to reduce the amount of gas you use. when traveling, there are ways to keep costs down - instead of eating out, simply find grocery stores and buy food that you can take with you, like fruits or snack bars, or sandwich material. good luck!