Thursday, January 18, 2007

saving money while travelling for business

Today I decided to protect my finances.
I've been travelling all week on behalf of big company. I have a modest per diem. Instead of blowing it on a $24 hotel breakfast or a $50 hotel dinner, I decided to save money.

I drove around and found a European grocery. I bought fresh bread, european chocolate and various european style cold cuts for a sandwhich. Thus I had my entree and dessert. I then bought six leaders of bottled water - to avoid the $8 bottled water charge at my fancy hotel.

I should have rented a video at blockbuster and watched it here on my laptop, but that was an afterthought.

Bottom line is, I might havce some surplus stipend thanks to the grocery store.

Regards,
makingourway

PS I am no longer accustomed to living in cold weather. I have goosebumps on my goosebumps.

3 comments:

fin_indie said...

It's interesting to note, that even with the large salary you are pulling in, saving a little here and there like this is part of the plan. That mindset is what is going to put you into the long term financial independent camp. Great stuff.

makingourway said...

Fin_Indie, thanks.
I've read the Millionaire Next Door and although I do like minor luxuries, I feel it's important to not waste too much money on them.
Adding some frugality into my lifestyle has certainly made a big difference.

When I was in my early 20s I had $10k a month Amex bills. I deeply regret what I didn't save. That money would have double or trippled by now!

Thanks for the encouragement.

Regards,
makingourway

Anonymous said...

I travel anywhere from two to four weeks per month and have made it a point to take at least half of my per diem home with me each week. I've used the money for extra bill payments, traveling home for the holidays, or just added it to savings. It is a great way to make a little extra cash.