I’m so lucky for the life I’ve created where I can see and explore new places, cities, and even countries. But working on the road gets expensive, and quick. Here are some money-saving hacks that will help keep more cash in your wallet without missing out.
Pre-Purchase Airport Snacks
It’s highway robbery with how much airports jack up the prices of food, snacks, and even water! But if you read my Five Travel Essentials blog, you’re already bringing that reusable water bottle with you ;). As for the snacks, shop beforehand and throw them into your carry-on. That beef stick or bag of pretzels is going to be half the price if you get them at any store that’s not inside the airport.
For frequent travelers like myself, you might even want to invest in an American Express card. The free food and coffee at the airport lounges are worth it alone for me, but they have dozens of other perks that could also be worth it for you.
Stock up on Staples
There are a few ways you can do this. The first option is to purchase some things ahead of time that you can pack in your suitcase. IE: oatmeal packets, single-serving peanut butter, dried fruit, things that don’t take up much space.
The second option is to go on a grocery store run after you get to your hotel. Once I know where I’m staying, I always check to see if there’s a store within walking distance to save on the cost of an Uber or Lyft. Getting a few grocery essentials can save you some money when it comes to eating out for lunch and dinner every night. There’s also a sense of empowerment you’ll have knowing you have some food with you, instead of searching for the quickest and easiest meal when you’re starving.
Take Advantage of the Continental Breakfast
You might feel like the dad at the drive-thru who asks for “extra ketchup” to offset the lack of condiments you have at home, but I have no shame here. When I see fresh fruit or pre-packaged items like yogurts or single-serving cereal, you better believe I’m taking some with me for lunch.
I’m not saying to take it all, but take what you will eat later that day. This also goes for coffee. They have “to-go” cups for a reason and you might as well get your money's worth.
Make Friends - Share a Ride
Do you have other co-workers on your trip? Make any friends at an event or convention you went to? Know anyone in the area that has a car? Ubers and Lyfts can be pricy. Sometimes, even more expensive than just renting a car. But if you can split the cost with others, or know someone who can give you a lift, you might be able to save hundreds of dollars.
Find Free Ways to Fitness
Do not get me wrong here. I LOVE dropping into CrossFit affiliates. There’s something so special about seeing how other affiliate owners run their boxes and meeting more community members. But – let’s get real and do some quick math.
I currently pay $175 for my gym membership, whether I’m home or on the road. If I work two weekends a month and pay $25/drop-in, two times each weekend, my CrossFit “membership” is now $275/month. Drop-ins when you’re doing life on the road add up fast.
So here are some free options: Get involved with onsite activations at events, or see if there is some type of community WOD the event is hosting. Always bring an extra pair of gym clothes because you never know when you might find yourself jumping into a WOD.
Take advantage of the fitness center in your hotel. I know, I know…it’s not the same, and they most definitely won’t have barbells (sad), but, a hotel WOD might just be a fun change of pace for you. Stay tuned for an article on my favorite hotel WODs, coming soon!
For those who want the affiliate experience, see if any are running special discounts around event weekends. Typically bigger CrossFit events like the Games or the Rogue Invitational will do this, but it never hurts to ask.
Nix the Alcohol
This might be an unpopular opinion, but it’s a huge money saver. It might be easier for me because I don’t love alcohol anyway, but if you’re someone who loves a good cocktail, just turn it into a mocktail! The cost of the drink will go down, and you’ll wake up feeling great.
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