SAVE A DIME
Save a Dime
Coco Chanel said “The best things in life are free”.
Ask yourself “What are the most valuable things in my life”? My guess is that you will say your family, friends, beauty, laughter, love and let’s not forget watching the sun set, holding a baby or seeing your pet after a long day. I call this “experiential living.”
Experiential living fuels our fire. Yup, it’s free and when done intentionally, it can enhance our relationship with ourselves, others and the environment.
My focus is on finding ways to live better, with more opportunities for less. Not free. Well, free sometimes free…but not always.
I’ve got some great products, services and ideas to help you have live your best life for less, wherever you go.
Living Your Best Life: Travel, Eat, Dress, Age, Stay Fit, and Be Well on a Budget
Hey there, fellow adventurers and seekers of “experiential living.” As a 61-year-old (currently non practicing) artist, fitness coach, mother, friend, and world traveler, I'm here to share some of my down-to-earth tips on how to I am living my best life while making the most of my budget. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and let's dive right in!
Traveling on a Budget: Who says you need a fortune to explore the world? Traveling on a budget is all about prioritizing your experiences, and being willing to say “yes” when opportunities arise. Here are a few tips:
Be Flexible: Travel during the off-peak seasons to score great deals on flights, accommodation, and attractions. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals and be open to spontaneous adventures. I am constantly checking google flights, Groupon, Frontier, Spirit and other sites to see what is available. I’ve missed several great opportunities because I didn’t jump on them right away.
Choose Destinations where the dollar goes further: Consider off-the-beaten-path locations, where you can immerse yourself in local culture without breaking the bank. I’ve fallen in love with Mexico and have found it, the people and culture very welcoming.
Opt for Budget Accommodation: Skip the luxury resorts and look for budget-friendly options like hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. They often provide unique experiences and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. You might even look into house and/or pet sitting! If you are willing to have strangers stay in your home, house swaps are becoming more and more popular.
Check out the Street Food: Savor the flavors of a new destination by indulging in affordable and delicious street food. It's a great way to immerse yourself in local cuisine without splurging at fancy restaurants. Word of caution: check to ensure the people running the stand are wearing gloves and that the people handling money are not the same people serving your food.
Eating Well on a Budget: wholesome food doesn't have to drain your wallet. Here's how I do my best to eat well without “breaking the bank”:
Cook at Home: Explore budget-friendly recipes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Check out Budgetbytes.com for inexpensive and healthy recipes.
I’ve been told planning meals for the week is crucial for the budget: I like to be spontaneous so creating a weekly meal plan and make a shopping list is a bit different for me. I plan breakfast and either lunch or dinner at home and one meal out. This helps me avoid impulse purchases and ensures I have everything I need for nutritious meals throughout the week and I have the flexibility to eat out once a day. I have a big appetite so I carry a bag of nuts with me when I am out and about.
Shop Smart: Compare prices, and take advantage of discounts and special offers. Visit local farmers' markets for fresh produce at reasonable prices. I’m sure you have been told to show the outside of grocery stores; you’ll find real food there. Then, if you are like me, you’ll go in search of a dark chocolate bar before checking out.
Embrace Plant-Based Options: I incorporate lots of plant-based meals into my diet. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains are more affordable than meat and they provide essential nutrients. I’m gluten free, so I focus on quinoa, brown rice and millet for my grains.
You don't need a designer wardrobe to look and feel fabulous. Here's how I pack for my trips:
Create a wardrobe "foundation”: I travel with Black and white pants, shorts, dresses and tops so that every item “goes” no matter what.
Check out Thrift Stores and second hand stores: It’s so fun to explore thrift stores and consignment shops for unique finds at a fraction of the retail price. I love discovering hidden gems and try to stop in a thrift store wherever I travel.
Make a statement with smaller items. Accessories like scarves, belts, and statement jewelry can elevate any outfit.
Clothing Swaps: Organize clothing swaps with friends or in your community. It's a fun way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime.
Staying Fit while traveling: staying fit and healthy becomes even more crucial while traveling. Here are some budget friendly tips:
Exercise Anywhere: You don't need an expensive gym membership to stay active. Take advantage of free activities like walking, hiking, cycling, or practicing yoga in the comfort of your “home away from home.”
Embrace Community Offerings: Many communities offer free or low-cost exercise classes. Often gyms will let you come to “try them on” before committing. I’m still apprehensive about gyms since COVID but many of my friends are “gym hopping” when traveling.
Join my on demand fitness program.
Prioritize Self-Care: Invest time in self-care activities that promote well-being, such as meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. I find that a good nights sleep is crucial for my health and attitude. If I don’t get a good nights sleep, I’ll build in time for a nap.
Here are some products and companies that I trust and that help me live my best life for less.
