Let’s be real—travelling sounds amazing, but figuring out how to afford it? That’s where things get tricky. Maybe you've already started picturing yourself sipping coffee in Paris or hiking through Bali’s lush jungles. But how do you get there without maxing out your credit card or feeling guilty about spending?
Good news: It’s all about smart planning and budgeting. With the right approach, you can turn your travel dreams into reality without stress or financial strain. And guess what? You don’t have to be rich to see the world—you just have to be strategic.
In Part 1 of our Mika Creations Travel Series, we talked about making travel a priority. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty: How do you actually afford that dream trips?
1. Start a Dedicated Travel Fund – Automatically!
Saving money for travel doesn’t mean you need to cut out all the fun in your daily life. Instead, set up a separate travel fund that you contribute to regularly—without even thinking about it.
1. Use a "Round-Up" Savings Account: Apps like Raiz or Acorns, allow you to round up your everyday purchases and save the difference. Buy a coffee for $4.75? The extra $0.25 goes straight into your travel fund. It adds up fast!
2. Set Up Automatic Transfers: Each week, transfer a small, manageable amount (say, $20–$50) into a high-yield savings account. After a few months, you’ll be surprised at how much you’ve saved.
3. Cash-Back Rewards: Use cash-back apps and credit cards to earn rewards on everyday spending, then funnel those savings into your travel fund.
Why This Works:
Consistency is key. Even if you can only put aside $5 a day, that’s $1,825 in a year—enough for a round-trip flight to Europe or an all-inclusive beach getaway!
2. Travel on Points: Make Your Credit Card Work for You
If you’re using a credit card but not earning points, you’re missing out! Many travel credit cards offer incredible rewards like free flights, hotel stays, and lounge access.
1. Sign Up for a Travel Rewards Credit Card – Choose one that offers the best airline frequent flyer points and hotel packages for your favorite destinations.
2.Use Your Card for Everyday Purchases – Petrol groceries, bills—charge them to your card (responsibly!), then pay it off each month to avoid interest.
3. Watch for Sign-Up Bonuses – Many cards offer massive welcome bonuses if you meet a spending requirement in the first few months.
Example:
A card like the American Express Platinum could get enough points to get a free flight just by hitting a sign-up bonus!
Pro Tip:
Pair your frequent flyer points with a travel hack: Book your flight with points and use your savings for a room upgrade, or experiences
3. Book Smart: Timing & Deals Matter
Did you know that when you book can make or break your budget? Flights and hotels fluctuate in price based on demand, but with a little strategy, you can score major discounts.
1 .Book Flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays – Prices tend to be lower midweek.
2. Use Flight Price Alerts – Set up alerts on Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to track the best deals.
3. Be Flexible with Dates – Traveling during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can save you hundreds on flights and accommodations.
4. Consider Alternative Airports – Sometimes, flying into a nearby city and taking a train or bus to your final destination can save big.
Bundle & Save:
Many travel sites offer package deals that include flights, hotels, and even activities. Look for all-in-one deals to save money and time.
4. Cut Costs Without Sacrificing Experience
Luxury travel doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Here’s how to get VIP experiences without overspending:
Companies like Luxury Escapes offer incredible deals, sign up for their newsletter and check out your inbox .
Stay in Boutique Hotels or Airbnb – Avoid expensive resorts and opt for stylish, local accommodations.
1. Eat Like a Local – Skip overpriced tourist restaurants and explore street food, farmers' markets, and hidden gems.
2. Use Public Transportation – Instead of taxis or Ubers, take trains, buses, or rent a bike for a more immersive (and budget-friendly) experience.
And don’t forget: Packing light with Mika Creations travel cubes saves you checked luggage fees!
5. Get Your Mindset Right: Prioritize Travel Over "Stuff"
At the end of the day, travelling affordably comes down to one simple question: What are you willing to prioritize?
1. Do you really need that daily $7 latte, or could you make coffee at home and put that money toward an adventure?
2. Instead of impulse shopping, ask yourself: “Would I rather have this, or an extra night in Santorini?”
3. Buy quality, eco friendly, sustainable travel packing cubes and accessories over cheap nasty nylon with cheap zips that don't last because it will make you feel good about your purchase and doing the right thing by mother nature and it's reducing landfill
Every dollar saved is a step closer to your next trip.
Ready to Book? Here’s Your Pre-Trip Checklist!
Check your travel fund – Is your savings goal on track?
Redeem points – See if you can get a free flight or hotel stay.
Look for last-minute deals – If your dates are flexible, you might score a huge discount!
Upgrade your travel gear – Mika Creations accessories and packing cubes make packing effortless!
Hit "book" and get excited – You’re officially making travel a reality!
Travel Is Possible—You Just Need a Plan!
If travel feels out of reach, remember: It’s not about how much money you make—it’s about how you prioritize and plan.
By following these budgeting hacks, your next holiday can be more than just a dream—it can be your next reality. And with Mika Creations travel accessories, you’ll be jet-setting in style, stress-free and organized.
So where’s your next destination? Start saving, get planning, and make it happen! part three we will explore whether to use the services of a travel agent or not the advantages and the disadvantages. ( and a real-life story that happened to us ) .