Vacation savings tracker
Price the trip, then color in 50 boxes to pay for it in cash.
A trip feels better when it is already paid for. This tracker starts with the real cost: travel, where you will stay, food, activities and the extras people forget, like parking and souvenirs.
Divide the total by 50 and write that amount in the box at the top. Every time you save that much, color in a box. When all 50 are done, the trip is covered.
How it works
Add up the full cost of the trip, including the extras people forget, like parking, tips and souvenirs. Divide the total by 50 to get the value of each box. Every time you save that much, color one in. Fifty boxes means the trip is paid for.
| Trip cost | Each of 50 boxes | Per week over 6 months |
|---|---|---|
| $1,500 | $30 | $58 |
| $2,500 | $50 | $97 |
| $4,000 | $80 | $154 |
| $6,000 | $120 | $231 |
How to use it
- Fill in the cost breakdown and add up the total.
- Divide the total by 50. That is the value of each box.
- Color in a box every time you save that amount.
Ways to use it
- Family trip: let the kids color in boxes too.
- Road trip: put gas, food and lodging in the breakdown.
- Honeymoon: pair it with the wedding tracker.
Tips
- Add 10% for surprises; trips almost always cost a little more.
- Book refundable where you can until the fund is full.
Questions
How much should I save for a vacation?
Add up travel, where you will stay, food, activities, local transport and extras, then add about 10% for surprises. That total is your goal.
How do I save for a trip fast?
Divide the total by the weeks until you leave and save that every week. A separate savings account keeps it from being spent.
Is it better to save first or use a credit card?
Saving first means no interest and no bills after you get home. Many people use a card for points and pay it off from the fund.
Goes well with
- Sinking funds tracker Twelve funds on one page, with a box for every month.
- Annual expenses list Every once-a-year cost by month, and what to set aside each month.
More savings challenges
Save $2,027 in 2027
A year-long savings challenge with 100 boxes, from $5 to $36.
$1,000 in 100 days
One box a day for 100 days. Most are under $20.
$5,000 biweekly paycheck savings challenge
One amount per payday, 26 paydays, $5,000 by the end of the year.
$10,000 savings challenge
100 boxes, no envelopes or cash needed.
This printable is a general planning tool, not financial advice. Read the full disclaimer.