How to Travel with Someone with Different Spending Habits

Are you planning a vacation with someone who has a different relationship to money than your own? If so, you may be wondering how to navigate these tricky financial waters while away from home.

When travel partners have different spending habits or financial circumstances, it’s important to address these differences and find a balance between enjoying your vacation and not breaking the bank. Here are some steps you can take to achieve this goal before heading to your destination. Doing so will not only keep you from overspending, assuming you’re the one with less cash to spare, but it can also help preserve an important relationship in your life.

Take Stock of Your Financial Situation – Including How Much Money You want to Spend

Perhaps the first and most important step is to get clear on how much money you’re willing to spend while out of town. Start by outlining expenses you’re anticipating, starting with the essentials. These might include:

• Gas or flight expenses
• Cabs, ride shares and other transportation
• Meals and snacks
• Lodging
• Gratuity
• Tourist sites
• Gifts and miscellaneous expenses

Once this task is completed, it should be fairly clear how much is leftover for other experiences that may come your way. Be sure to leave some padding for unexpected fees and expenses.

Discuss Spending Expectations with Travel Partners Beforehand

Next, have an open conversation about your expectations and budget before leaving. Sit down together and discuss what you want to do on your vacation and what you can afford. This allows you to set realistic expectations and limits before the trip begins.

If you haven’t traveled together before, both people will want to be upfront about their expectations. Questions to ask yourselves might be:

1. What activities do you hope to do together?
2. Do you plan to have a daily budget as a spending guide?
3. Will you need to pay for any activities in advance?
4. How much time do you hope to spend together?
5. Are you willing to do some things independently of one another?
6. What are your main interests and highest priorities?

The great thing about these types of conversations is that they are a chance to air out differences and relieve any stress one or both of you may be feeling. You can both leave town light of heart, with a much smaller chance of spending habits causing friction between you while away.

Consider Alternative Vacation Activities that Both Can Agree on

Does one person prefer to sleep in while the other wants to hit every museum in town? How about drinking and snacking habits? These are the types of expenses that, individually, don’t seem so big. That is, until you get the bill after coming back home.

If you’re afraid of running into unanticipated expenses (that you might not be able to pay off!), consider alternative activities that cater to both sides. If your travel partner wants to participate in expensive activities, ask if they would consider cheaper alternatives that still provide a similar experience. For example, if your travel partner wants to go scuba diving, see if there is a cheaper snorkeling option available.

If both are willing to be flexible, you can each go with your preference and then meet up afterwards on the beach for a mai tai.

Track Travel Expenses Separately Using an App or Other Budgeting Device

Today’s money-conscious travelers are finding it helpful to track their expenses using phones, apps and other devices. That will help you decide how to approach shared expenses. Either pay separately, or let a budgeting app help you sort out the differences at the end of the trip. Doing so allows both parties to enjoy the trip without worrying about the other person’s spending habits.

Respect One Another’s Financial Situation

Lastly, remember to be respectful and understanding of your travel partner’s financial situation. Try to compromise and find a solution that works for both of you. Ultimately, the goal is for everyone in the group to enjoy their vacation and create lasting memories together!

Stop by Your Local Currency Exchange Before Hitting the Road

Stop by your nearest Community Currency Exchanges (CCEAs) for a quick and convenient way to take care of financial and auto needs – all under one roof! Making sure your finances are in order will provide peace of mind while on the road so you can kick back, relax and enjoy the moment.

Your nearby CCEA will have loads of information and services to help you cash your checks, pay your bills, and take care of other financial tasks. Stop by your nearest location and take advantage of our many convenient and reliable services!