How to Control Spending While on Vacation
I have to be honest, I really love my clothes. Particularly the items I purchased abroad. They make me happy because they are all associated with a fun memory and serve as great conversation starters. College Jewels spent most of her work study checks on clothes. Adult Jewels now spends most of her money on bills (#adulting) and travel experiences. However, I would be lying if I said I put my shopping to a complete halt. Over the years I’ve gotten much better about my compulsive spending.
Here are 4 strategies to control your spending while on vacation:
1. Make Your List Exclusive.
Before you travel, list items you want to buy that are exclusive to the place you are visiting. Upon my second trip to South Africa, I knew I wanted custom-made clothing. Not only can it be cheaper to make clothes abroad, but the local designs are a plus.
I got pants and shorts made at Mali South in Cape Town. I highly recommend going there! The tailors complete them within a week, but they can make clothing quicker if needed. Prices were negotiable.
2. Know What You Have.
Before you make a purchase abroad, think about what you already have. I was searching for a varsity jacket when I came across a beautiful one at Pimkie in Vienna. It was a bit more than what I would usually pay for this kind of item, but this jacket was unique because there aren’t Pimkie stores in the U.S. Prices were not negotiable.
3. Bring Cash. Ditch the Card.
If you know you are going to an area with a lot of retail temptation, bring a limited amount of cash and leave your debit/credit cards behind. This is a great way to curb unnecessary spending, as you must stick to your list! I got the most comfortable pants I own from vendors at the Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap. Just a little warning: the vendors there can be a little aggressive. Once they see you buying from other vendors, the whole squad tries to get you to purchase from them. Prices were negotiable.
4. Use Peer Support.
Enlisting the support of my friends was so necessary at the Chatuchak Market in Bangkok. This weekend market has more than 8,000 market stalls! A simple “Girl, you don’t need that!” can go a long way when so many options surround you. I got my favorite high-waisted jeans, 3 tops, and a beach wrap from here. The prices were negotiable.
