Frugality is a word that scares a lot of people. The mention of it brings several words to mind: sacrifice, coupons, cheap. It’s a habit that few people master.
Me, I’m just a dabbler in the philosophy of frugality. There was a time not too long ago when I would spend every cent I made, every week, year after year. Over the last year or two I madea conscious decision to start to actually save money. It’s been a bit of a struggle, but I’ve become more frugal as time goes on.
The Benefits Of Frugality At Home And On The Road
Recently I’ve realized that there is a double benefit in practicing and becoming more frugal today. The less I spend now invariably equates to more money in the bank when we leave for Bangkok in October. The more money in the travel fund, the longer we can travel without having to stop somewhere and teach English or work some other odd job.
There is an added benefit to building a habit of saving and watching the wallet: being frugal while on the road. This was a revelation to me. If I get the habit down now, before I leave, I mean really get it, then when I’m out there, I’ll be less inclined to frivolous spending.
What good is more money to travel with if it all gets blown on partying and purchasing useless crap, just because it’s “foreign?”
By spending less now, I’ll be building up a “spend-less mindset” that will travel with me all around the world.
A Tough Habit To Build
It’s been difficult, knowing that I won’t be able to buy another DVD or music CD. There will be no more Friday nights at the pub with the guys. From here on out, it’s peanut butter sandwiches and saving leftovers.
If I’m tired after work, no more cab rides home. Toughen up and walk.
New movie out in theaters? For eleven dollars a ticket? I don’t think so. That’s one night in a hostel in Phuket.
It will be a struggle, but I keep telling myself this: Every twenty-dollar bill is one more day of travel. And it’s true. That’s the key.
Every time you think about spending some of your money, take a moment to stand back, and think about what that money will get you in a few months when you’re out there, abroad, taking in the majesty of Angkor Wat, or just sitting on a beach in Thailand.
Frugality is not dead.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Talk about hitting the nail on the head. It is a difficult habit to start but completely doable. This was the mentality I took before leaving for Australia.
Great post! I know the struggle of not buying things. It’s not easy, but it’ll pay off in the long run
Thanks Nancy and Spunky. It’s definitely a big change in lifestyle for me. I think it’s the most important habit to get into, especially when saving for a long-term trip. Buying only the bare essentials isn’t easy, but very worth it.
I am right there with you… It’s tough and I find myself slipping at times, but I know it will be worth it in the end.