It takes money to go on an Excellent Adventure. Even if you’re budgeting by couch-surfing, you’ll need money for planes, trains, meals and other things so you’re never caught short of cash. If you’re going to make money online as you travel it’s still a good idea to have a reserve to fall back on as you travel.

For decades Americans have been awful when it comes to saving. We were the largest debtor nation ever and our savings rate was in the negative numbers. Most Americans had an average of six credit cards with $10,000 to $20,000 in debt.

Since the recession, things have changed. Americans a’re finally paying down credit cards and saving for real. It looks like this isn’t just a temporary change – but a long-term one. Yes, I know it means our economy is limping back to health rather than sprinting. In the long run, it’s a good thing.

Look at ways to save big on the things you spend money on month after month.

• Live in a less expensive home. Many people have been forced into this – but even when your income goes back up – stay there. The rule of thumb is your housing cost shouldn’t exceed a weekly paycheck.
• Drive a less expensive car. As long as it’s safe and reliable – keep it longer. A smaller, older car is likely to save you money three ways: lower or no payments, less insurance and less money for gasoline.
• Increase deductibles on insurance. Especially car insurance. Set aside money for the deductible. Then, drive safely. When you trade dollars with an insurance company you lose.
• If you’re visit to Starbucks often like me, drink simple. Ask for a Grande coffee in a Venti cup and fill it with milk. Voila! You have a latte, almost. Cost about $2.00 and refills on simple beverages are 50 cents.
• Get a Starbucks card and register it online. After awhile you get a gold card good for free refills, syrups and soymilk. Every 15 drinks you get a coupon for a free beverage. That’s when I get a Frappucino.
• Wait an extra week or two between haircuts. I trim my bangs which gives me  extra time before going back for another cut.
• Color your own hair.  Spend $10 on Feria by L’Oreal hair color. It actually look you have highlights. Compare to women who get hair done monthly and spend $125 on cut and color.
• If you get mani/pedis – wait a few extra days. I go 10-11 days between manicures and about 4-5 weeks between pedicures. Keep them in a soft, natural color or clear polish.
• Look to your telecom services for savings. Do you pay for minutes you don’t use?
• Do you need 500 TV channels? We reduced to 90 channels and eliminated on demand services. Savings $30 per month.
• Go to a matinees when you want to see a movie. Tuck a healthy snack like an energy bar in your bag rather than pay $10 for a tub of greasy popcorn and a sugary soda.
• Renting movies to watch at home? Check out RedBox outside grocery stores, MacDonalds and other places.
• Learn creative ways to use leftovers. A little leftover something – can make a great omelette filling for a gourmet, inexpensive breakfast.

Watching where and how you spend money is smart all the time – but it’s even smarter when you’re setting aside cash to go on an excellent adventure.  For more money-saving and smart money-management tips, go to http://www.moredebtfreedom.com