Embarking on a full-time adventure across the breathtaking landscapes of Australia is a dream for many, but the practicalities of life on the road, especially with a family, can make it seem like a distant fantasy. However, one resourceful mum-of-four, Nicky Mumford, has cracked the code to sustainable travel with her family, and she’s sharing her secrets on how to save a whopping $420 every week!
Nicky and her family have been on the road for over a year, exploring the wonders of Australia in their caravan. With children aged 11, 7, 5, and 2, managing the family budget is crucial to keep their nomadic lifestyle afloat. One of the most significant expenses for any traveller is food, and Nicky has found a way to cut costs drastically without sacrificing the joy of their journey.
The Mumford family’s golden rule is simple: pack your own meals. While the allure of cafes and food courts can be tempting, Nicky has calculated that dining out for lunch alone could cost her family over $60 a day. By preparing lunches each day, they manage to keep their weekly grocery bill to around $400-$450, covering all meals. This smart move saves them hundreds of dollars that would otherwise be spent on just one meal a day.
Nicky’s approach is not only budget-friendly but also enriches the travel experience. She believes that the setting of their meals—whether it’s a picnic at a playground or a BBQ by their caravan—creates more lasting memories than the food itself. This philosophy has allowed the Mumfords to prioritise experiences over expensive meals, focusing on the joy of discovery and the beauty of Australia’s natural playgrounds.
To further stretch their dollars, Nicky leverages technology and loyalty programs. She uses her CommBank app to monitor grocery spending and takes advantage of Woolworths and Coles memberships, which offer 10% off online purchases and an additional 10% off in-store. These discounts apply to four major grocery shops each month, saving her an estimated $30-$40 per shop.
Nicky’s thrifty mindset extends to beverages and snacks as well. The family primarily drinks water, with juice as a weekly treat that they dilute to make it last longer. They buy snacks in bulk, avoiding the extra cost and plastic waste of individual packets. When it comes to sweet treats, they only purchase items on special, like discounted doughnuts or lamingtons, and share a block of chocolate or half-price ice creams as occasional indulgences.
The Mumford family’s approach to travel is a masterclass in balancing spend versus splurge. While they enjoy the occasional big-ticket experience, they mostly seek out free or low-cost activities like museums, art galleries, environmental centres, and national parks. This focus on enriching experiences over material pleasures has allowed them to maintain their full-time travel lifestyle.
The Mumford family’s journey is a good example of how simple choices can make a big difference in creating a sustainable travel lifestyle. Their approach shows that adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag—it’s all about balance, creativity, and making the most of what’s available.
Have you ever found creative ways to save money while travelling? What are your go-to budget-friendly travel tips? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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