| How to Save Money to Travel Posted: 30 Jul 2019 05:00 PM PDT Many people dream of traveling the world one day, but it's hard to save money to travel as often as you'd like to. If you want to begin saving for your dream trip or an upcoming vacation, it's easy to get your travel fund started. You can kickstart your travel savings by cutting your expenses, budgeting your money, and choosing cheaper travel options and accommodations. EditSaving Money Quickly - Deposit money from each paycheck into your savings account automatically. Decide how much you can afford to save, such as 5-10% of your income. Once you get paid, move that money from your checking account into savings so you can't spend it. Be sure to commit to saving the same amount or an increasing amount each month to build your savings.[1]
- You may be able to file paperwork with your employer so that a certain percentage of your paycheck is "direct deposited" into your savings account, rather than your checking account. That way, you won't have to transfer the money yourself.
- Cut unnecessary spending to increase the amount you can save. Try to limit the amount that you spend on non-essentials, like entertainment, dining out at restaurants, or general shopping. Avoid going to clubs, bars, or cinemas until you have enough money for your trip- and if you do go the cinema, bring your own snacks and sit in standard seats; you don't need to pay extra to see the film in 3D or eat overpriced snacks in the premium seats. At the end of the month, transfer the money you didn't spend from your checking account into to your savings.[2]
- For example, if you normally spend $150 per month on eating at restaurants, you can limit that to $50 per month and add the extra $100 to your savings.
- Get a part-time job to fund your travel if you have spare time. If you have extra time in your day and aren't able to reach your savings goal through budgeting, apply to work at a restaurant, bar, or retail store. These jobs normally have flexible schedules and pay a bit above minimum wage, which can allow you to save an extra $200-$500 per month, depending on the job and how much you're able to work.[3]
- Jobs like waiting tables and bartending are popular for making quick money since you often get cash tips and can begin saving immediately. These jobs also allow you to work weekends and evenings if you have a day job.
- Sell used books, clothes, and furniture to make extra money for your trip. Go through your items to see what you don't want or need anymore. Look for places like consignment stores and used book stores to sell clothes and books. If you want to sell the items yourself, host a garage sale or post the items on an online marketplace, like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Gumtree, eBay or Amazon.[4]
- Make sure all items that you're trying to sell are in good condition with no damage or missing parts.
- Call your utility providers to see how you can lower your bill. Most utility companies keep track of how much gas, water, and electricity you use, and may have suggestions for lowering your costs. Try leaving the lights off, taking shorter showers, and programming your thermostat to adjust to a cooler or warmer temperature when you aren't at home.[5]
- Try contacting your phone provider, as well, and opt for the cheapest plan available to save money. This might help you save an additional $30-$50 per month.
- Take public transport or walk to cut the costs associated with driving. If you usually drive, check the bus or train timetable, and purchase a pass to use your city's public transport. For close destinations, try cycling or walking to get where you need to go. By doing so, you can save on parking passes, paying for petol, and any mechanical issues. Depending on where you live, choosing public transport can help you save as much as $13,000 annually![6]
- Normally, monthly transportation passes cost around $50-$100 and can be used to pay for multiple trips per day.
- If you're a student, check with your university to see if you can use your student I.D. for free or discounted passes.
- Some employers provide a commuting incentive for employees who take public transport to cover the cost of the pass. Be sure to ask your manager if this is an option before you buy the pass!
EditBudgeting for Your Trip - Track your spending closely for 1 month to see where your money goes. Use an app to enter all of your purchases or write down how much you spend in a notebook. Be sure to keep track of everything and save any receipts so you can categorize where you're spending most of your money.[7]
- If you don't want to wait a month to start saving, try looking over your bank statements for the past month to see how much you're spending.
- Decide how much money you want to save for the trip. Start researching your expected expenses for the trip, like airfare, lodging, food, entertainment, and transportation in your destination. As a general rule, plan to save about $400 for spending money for each week of your trip, plus additional money for transportation and lodging throughout that time.[8]
- For example, if you were planning to take a month-long trip to a foreign country, you should save at least $1,500 for spending money plus the cost of a flight and a hotel room.
- While you can get by with spending less, it's better to have more than you need. When you come back from your trip, you can always put that extra money toward your next trip.
- Create a detailed budget that includes saving for travel expenses. Take the information that you gathered from tracking your spending and break it into categories. Budget money for fixed expenses, like rent or a mortgage, utilities, Internet, transportation, savings, and insurance. Then, make a category for expenses that fluctuate, like shopping, entertainment, and eating at restaurants.[9]
- Remember to make savings a "fixed" expense, since you'll need to commit to saving a certain amount each month for your trip.
- Use rewards credit cards only if you can pay off the expense immediately. There are plenty of credit cards that offer rewards points and cashback for travel-related expenses, like airfare and hotel rooms. However, you should try to avoid going into debt for your trip, since high interest rates can negate the money saved from cashback or rewards points.[10]
- If you're planning to use a rewards card to purchase something for your trip, transfer the money directly from your savings account to pay off the card as soon as possible.
EditSpending Less on Your Trip - Travel during the off-season to save on airfare and lodging. Most tourist destinations are busier during popular vacation times, like holidays and school vacations. Try to travel during less popular months, which can vary depending on the destination. Research online before booking your flight to see when the peak season for that location is.[11]
- If you're looking to go to a seasonal destination, like a ski resort, try to plan for the very beginning or end of the season for the best rates.
- Be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals on airfare. When you're searching for a flight, be sure to select the option for "flexible" dates. This means that you'd be willing to fly on any day of the week regardless of the length of your trip. Try searching for flights on aggregate websites, like Momondo and Kayak, which have flexible options.[12]
- If you need to depart or arrive on a certain date, try to make the other leg of your trip flexible to save some money.
- Stay in a hostel rather than a hotel to save money on hotel rooms. If you're going to a popular tourist destination, try looking for availability in hostels, which have shared sleeping and common spaces. If you're comfortable sharing a room or bathroom with a stranger for a few nights, this is a great option.[13]
- Remember to look up reviews of the hostel before booking your stay, especially if you're traveling alone. If previous guests have reported feeling unsafe or have had things stolen, opt for a different lodging arrangement.
- Visit attractions and events that don't have an admission fee. When you're in a new city, visit places like museums and public exhibitions, which normally don't have an entrance fee on certain days of the week. If you're not sure where to go, try searching online for "free things to do" in the city where you're staying.[14]
- For example, museums in New York City have a free admission day once per month. While they tend to be more crowded on these days, it's a great way to see art, history, or science exhibits without using your spending money.
- Search for discounts online before purchasing tickets to events or attractions. If you're planning to visit popular tourist attractions, search the name of the attraction plus the word "coupon" or "discount" online first. Use sites like GroupOn or membership groups like AAA and AARP to find special discounts on tickets.[15]
- You might also be able to get discounts or rewards points for using a credit card to purchase the tickets. However, keep in mind that you should pay off the card as soon as possible to avoid interest charges.
- Before you depart on your trip, make sure your bags aren't too heavy. If they're over a specific weight, you may have to use some of your money to pay for a checked bag fee!
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| How to Get Rid of Dry Hair and Dry Scalp Posted: 30 Jul 2019 09:00 AM PDT Having dry hair and scalp can be frustrating, but you may be able to find relief! While dry hair and scalp have several causes, changing your hair care habits and using deep conditioning treatments will usually help fix it. To get rid of your dry hair and scalp, adjust your hair care routine to avoid products and techniques that cause dryness. Then, restore moisture to your hair and scalp using a home treatment. Finally, protect your hair to keep it as healthy as possible. EditAdjusting Your Hair Care Habits - Shampoo your hair no more than 2-3 times a week. Washing your hair too often can dry out both your scalp and hair. You don't need to wash your hair every day, and skipping washes may help improve the look and feel of your hair. For best results, wash your hair just 2-3 times per week.[1]
- If your hair feels very dirty, try using dry shampoo between washes.
- It's okay to condition your hair between washes, if you like.
- Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Sulfate can dry out both your hair and your scalp, so skip products that contain it. Check the label on your shampoo and conditioner to make sure they are sulfate-free and are moisturizing. This can help you find relief.[2]
- Condition your hair daily, but avoid your scalp. Using a moisturizing conditioner may help treat your dry hair. Apply the conditioner starting at your ends, then stop just before you reach your scalp. Let the conditioner sit on your hair for 3 minutes before rinsing it out with cool water, which seals your cuticle.[3]
- Don't put the conditioner on your scalp because it may worsen the dryness, especially if you have dandruff.
- Do a 20-30 minute deep conditioning treatment once a week. Apply a deep conditioning treatment to your hair starting at the ends and working up to your roots. Let it sit for up to 30 minutes, then rinse with cool water to seal your cuticle. This will help restore your hair's moisture.[4]
- Follow the directions on your product label.
- Use heat styling tools no more than 1-2 times a week to prevent damage. Unfortunately, styling tools can damage your hair and even cause breakage. Avoid using heat to style your hair if you can. Otherwise, limit your use of heat styling tools to just 1-2 times a week. This includes your hair dryer, straightener, and curling iron.[5]
- When you do use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant to your hair first. This will help reduce the damage.
EditUsing Home Treatments - Apply coconut oil to your hair and scalp for 20-30 minutes. Divide your hair into 4-6 sections, depending on how thick your hair is. Starting with the first section, use your fingers to apply a thin layer of coconut oil to your hair and scalp. Continue applying the oil to each section until your hair is coated. Then, cover your head with a shower cap and a hot towel. Let the oil sit for up to 30 minutes, then shampoo and condition your hair to remove it.[6]
- If you don't have much time, leave the oil on your hair for 10 minutes. It won't be quite as effective, but you should see results.
- Do a hot oil treatment to add moisture to your hair. Pour about of oil into a bowl. Heat the oil in a pot of boiling water or the microwave until it feels warm. Massage the oil into your hair and scalp, then cover your hair with a shower cap and a warm towel. Let the oil sit for 30-45 minutes. Finally, shampoo and condition your hair to remove the oil.[7]
- You can use any oil that you have on hand. Avocado oil is a great option for dry hair, and jojoba oil helps with dandruff. You can also use coconut oil, which is great for all hair types.
- Try a homemade egg yolk mask, which may help with dryness. To make your mask, put 2-3 whole eggs into a clean bowl and add 2-3 drops of lemon juice. Beat the eggs until they get frothy, then apply the mask to your hair using your fingers. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let the mask sit for 20 minutes. Rinse the mask out with cool water, then shampoo and condition your hair.[8]
- You can use this treatment once or twice a month.
- Don't rinse the mask out with warm or hot water because the egg will start to cook and will be harder to remove. of honey, of olive oil, or of coconut oil to your mask for extra softness and shine. However, keep in mind that these ingredients don't work the same way for everyone and aren't guaranteed to help your hair.}}
- Use a homemade gelatin mask for smooth, shiny hair. Stir 1 tbsp (9 g) of gelatin into of warm water. Let the gelatin sit for 5 minutes, then add of apple cider vinegar and 6 drops of rosemary essential oil. Mix the ingredients, then apply the mask to your hair. Let is sit for 10 minutes before shampooing and conditioning your hair.[9]
- Instead of the rosemary essential oil, you can use clary sage, lavender, or jasmine essential oil.
- Apply a thick layer of mayonnaise to your hair to restore moisture. Wet your hair with warm water before applying the mask. Use your fingers to apply a thin coat of mayonnaise to your hair, starting at your ends and working up to your roots. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let the mayonnaise sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Finally, rinse out the mayonnaise, shampoo, and condition.[10]
- Choose a mayonnaise that contains eggs and oil, as these are the ingredients that treat the dryness.
- Use an avocado mask to add moisture to your hair and scalp. Add a ripe avocado, of extra virgin olive oil, and of honey to a blender, food processor, or clean bowl. Mix the ingredients together until your mask is an even consistency. Apply the mask to dry hair and massage it into your scalp. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let the mask sit for 30 minutes. Finally, rinse your hair out with cool water, then shampoo and condition.[11]
- Avocados are rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural oils, so they may make your hair soft, glossy, and moisturized.
- Use honey to make a deep conditioning mask. For an easy option, mix 1 part honey and 2 parts conditioner together. Alternatively, mix of extra virgin olive oil, of pure vegetable glycerin, and of pure honey to make a mask. Apply the conditioner to your hair and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing your hair with cool water.[12]
- Be aware that honey can lighten your hair.
EditProtecting Your Hair and Scalp - Eat a nutritious diet or take a multivitamin to avoid vitamin deficiencies. Consuming nutritious foods will help you get the nutrients you need for healthy hair. If you want to use supplements, check with your doctor first to make sure they're safe for you to take. Here are some ways you can improve your diet to help relieve your dry hair:[13]
- Eat more fatty fish, like tuna, salmon, sardines, and mackerel.
- Choose more fresh produce, especially blueberries, broccoli, and tomatoes.
- Add nutrient-dense foods like walnuts, kidney beans, and oysters.
- Take supplements for Omega-3s, vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin, and iron.
- Wear a hat when you're out in the sun. Sun exposure can dry out your hair and scalp, so spending time outdoors can make your condition worse. Covering your head with a hat helps block the sun's rays, so it may help with your dry hair and scalp. Choose a hat with a brim for the best coverage.[14]
- If you can, spend less time outdoors during the sunny parts of the day.
- Wear a swim cap while swimming to protect your hair from chlorine. Exposing your hair and scalp to chlorinated water may dry them out. Fortunately, you don't have to give up swimming! Instead, cover your head with a swim cap before you get in the pool. This will protect both your hair and scalp, which may help with your dryness.[15]
- You can buy a swim cap online.
- As another option, keep your hair out of the water while you're spending time in a pool.
- Always visit a dermatologist or your doctor if you are experiencing scalp problems.[16]
- Don't use baking soda treatments if you have dry hair or scalp because baking soda is too harsh and drying. It will likely make your dryness worse.[17]
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| How to Discuss Important Issues with Your Parents Posted: 30 Jul 2019 01:00 AM PDT Talking to your parents about something important can seem scary and overwhelming, and that's okay. No matter what kind of relationship you have with your parents, you still need to talk them about important issues in your life. With proper planning and going about the conversation the right way, you can reduce the fear and anxiety you may have about talking to them about an important issue or problem that you're having. EditPlanning the Conversation - Plan out what you want to say before you talk to your parents. The first thing you should do before you discuss something important with your parents is figure out what you hope the gain from the conversation. Deciding on a goal you hope to achieve with the conversation can help guide the way you approach it with your parents.[1]
- For example, the way you approach an important conversation is different if you're asking permission to do something than it would be if you needed advice or help with something.
- Write out what you want to say before you talk to your parents. You can bring your notes with you to make sure you don't forget anything when you're talking to your parents.
- Rehearse the conversation with a friend that you trust. Try to act out the conversation with a close friend or family member that can play the role of your parents and provide helpful input. It can be helpful to have someone provide feedback, and it can calm your nerves to know that you've prepared for the conversation as best as you can.[2]
- Choose a friend, sibling, or family member that you know will be honest and give you feedback that can help you shape the conversation to be the most effective it can be.
- Choose a time and place to talk to both parents at the same time. You may feel like approaching a certain parent could help you get what you want or make the conversation easier, but if it's really important, you should include both parents. Your parents will recognize that you wanted to get input from both of them and will appreciate it, which could help the conversation go easier.[3]
- If your parents aren't together, try to include one of them on a phone or video call.
- Choose a time where both parents are more likely to be in a better mood or open to a conversation, like in the evening after work, or at dinner.
- Pick a place that is appropriate for an important conversation, like the dinner table, or living room. The car or at school isn't a great idea because there will be other distractions that could derail your conversation.
EditTalking to Your Parents - Take a deep breath and calm your mind before you talk to your parents. If you start the conversation stressed out or emotional, your parents may not take your thoughts seriously. Talking about important issues with your parents means you need to approach the conversation calmly and maturely, and you can focus your thoughts by controlling your breathing.[4]
- Start by stating the issue clearly and to the point. Show your parents that you're serious by cutting to the chase and addressing the topic head-on. If you were engaging in small talk or talking about something else before, a direct statement like, "So, listen, I need to talk to you about my curfew" will turn the conversation to the issue you want to discuss.[5]
- It's okay to joke around or have a little small talk before you discuss the important issue or problem you're having, but when it comes time to talk about it, it should be all business to show your parents how important it is.
- Be honest, clear, and direct in what you say to your parents. For important issues, you shouldn't beat around the bush. Once the conversation gets going, you should continue to keep a professional and clear tone as you discuss the issues. Even if the topic is unpleasant or just flat out bad, your parents will listen better and be more helpful if you're honest and direct.[6]
- For example, you could say something like, "I don't feel that it's fair or appropriate for me to not be allowed to date." Keep a mature and professional tone.
- If you're worried or scared, tell them. They need to know everything you're thinking and feeling so they can help you.
- Don't whine or argue with your parents if they start to get upset or hesitant. Make sure you get to say everything you want to say and don't become overly emotional.
- If you wrote out what you wanted to say, use your notes if you start to get lost in what you want to say.
- Ask your parents if they have any thoughts or advice. When you have finished saying everything that you wanted to say, ask your parents what they think you should do. They will appreciate that you are asking for help and may have some helpful advice for you. It's also an opportunity to clear up any confusion they may have because you can answer their questions if they have any.[7]
- You could ask them, "I know that you both have strong feelings about where I go to college, but I also feel strongly about it, and this is a great opportunity for me. Do you have any advice on what I should do?"
- Communication is a two-way street, so keep the avenue open and welcome their input or advice.
- Even if you have to discuss something negative that you've done, you can still ask them for advice on what you can do about it.
- Showing humility and asking for help is a sign of maturity and your parents will notice it.
- Understand your parents' point of view. No matter what your parents decide or say in the discussion, you need to try to understand where they are coming from. If they get angry or deny a request, don't become angry yourself. Instead, try to see why they would make their decision and respect it, even if you don't agree with it.[8]
- Showing your parents that you understand their viewpoint can make them more willing to see yours as well.
- Your parents are more likely to respect your views and see you as an adult if you act maturely and keep your cool even when they don't give you your way.
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