GirlsGuideTo | Summer Vacay: Easy Ways To Stash Cash

Lacking the funds for a much-needed vacay? It’s that time of year when wanderlust sets in for all of us. But it can be a real downer if you don’t have the cash to finance a trip. Try these tricks to beef up your bank account now, so you can be lounging on a tropical island in no time…with a little extra money for poolside cocktails!

Put Away the Plastic
I know, I know. I love my credit cards too. It’s so convenient to just swipe away when it comes to spending, but by only using cards for purchases, you’re doing yourself a disservice. You see, we spend more money with credit than with debit and more with debit than with cash. Put yourself on a cash diet, so you see where your money is going. Watching hard-earned dollar bills slip away stings more, makes your money harder to part with, and keeps you on budget. After all, you can’t spend $100 at Target when all you brought was $50.

Set up a Separate Savings Account
If you leave any extra money in your checking account, there is a greater chance that you’ll blow it on a dinner out or a cute new dress. Get serious about reaching your goal and try to set aside at least $50 from every paycheck and put it in an account where you can watch it grow. Once you save some money, you get inspired to save more. Visit the account online so you can be proud of how well you’re doing!

Look for Ways to Cut Down
When paying bills each month, it’s important to look at what you are being charged for and if there are any ways you can trim down your costs. Not using all your minutes on your cell bill? Change your plan. Or maybe you really don’t need all 500 TV channels that the cable company is charging you for. Being conscious of these little things can make a big difference…and get you to the beach faster.

Sleep On It
Sleep is not only good for your health — it can have a positive affect on your bank account. Truthfully, there are few things that we want to buy that can’t wait until tomorrow. Make yourself wait 24 hours and if you are still obsessed with it the next day, buy it. Also, try to avoid late-night online shopping binges. When you’re tired, you may be more prone to just click and buy.

Don’t Shop Sad...or Angry... or Hungry
When you are reeling from an awful day at work or a fight with your guy, retail therapy is not the answer. At least, when you’re trying to save up some cash.Never go to the supermarket on an empty stomach or head to the mall after a bad day because you’re more likely to make impulse purchases. Go straight home and call a friend, take a walk, or get in the bath instead!

Hit Up a BYOB
Going to restaurants that have an extensive cocktail menu isn’t a budget-friendly move when you’re looking to save fast. Opt for a bring-your-own and skip the extras like sparkling water and dessert, which fatten up your bill (and your waistline) and slim that cash you’re trying to save.

Use Coupons Wisely
Sites like Groupon or Living Social are a smart resource to visit every day when you are trying to save without compromising your social life. That being said, do use your best judgment when it comes to coupons. If you’re tempted to use a good one, just take a second to ask yourself first whether you’d want to buy something even if was full price. No? Toss that coupon and save your cash.

Hang Out With Cheapskates
It’s important to let your friends know that you are trying to save. Having them on board as you try to reach your goal is really important because then they can support you, rather than sabotage you. So meet a group of pals for happy hour specials, but skip out before dinner. They’ll understand – especially if they’re going on vacation with you.

Get on eBay
And I don’t mean so you can pick "Buy It Now" deals on designer duds. Clean out your closet and sell the stuff you don’t wear anymore. Have extra furniture? Clear up space and add to your income by selling on Craigslist. If there is an opportunity for more income, seize it.

Follow these tips and you’ll easily have enough dough for that fab vacay you want. Do you have other money saving tips? Please share!