It’s that time of year again…
Midterms are over (barely), you’re running on caffeine and instant noodles, and all you can think about is home. Mom’s cooking. Your old bed. Maybe even your dog judging you for switching majors again.
But first — you’ve gotta get there. ✈️🚗🚌
Whether you’re booking flights, splitting gas money, or Venmo’ing that friend-of-a-friend for the backseat ride to Cleveland, the trip home hits hard if you didn’t plan for it.
That’s where your Travel Home Jar comes in clutch.
💸 The “Oh No, It’s Already November” Fund
Let’s be honest — college students are not famous for financial foresight.
A recent CNBC study found that over 60% of students admit they don’t track their spending at all. Which explains why so many of us end up panic-buying overpriced Thanksgiving flights or maxing out a debit card for gas two days before break.
But here’s the twist: budgeting for the trip earlier doesn’t just save money — it saves stress.
JJ says: “Don’t wait for your wallet to go DEFCON 1 before you start planning.” 🫙
🧭 Your Thanksgiving Budget Game Plan
- Create a “Travel Home” JelliJAR
- Even if you only toss in $10 a week starting mid-semester, that’s $80+ saved by break — enough to cover gas or offset flight costs. JJ auto-fills it every payday, so it’s one less thing to overthink.
- Find your carpool crew early
- Post in your school’s subreddit or student Discord. Someone’s always driving home to the next state. Split gas. Make playlists. Budget for snacks (because you know you’ll buy them anyway).
- Pack smarter, not heavier
- Baggage fees are the hidden villain of holiday travel. Wear your big hoodie, save $35. JJ calls that “cozy financial strategy.”
- Don’t go broke showing gratitude
- Gifts for the fam? Keep it simple. Bake cookies, make playlists, print photos. Thoughtful > expensive — your Grandma doesn’t need another Bath & Body Works candle.
🎓 The Real Lesson (and it’s not on the syllabus)
Budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom. When your travel plans are already covered, you’re not stressing over whether you can afford to come home. You’re just going home.
JJ’s got your back with auto-sorted jars, spending reminders, and a little digital confetti when you hit your savings goal.
Because adulting is hard enough — travel shouldn’t be.
🥧 JJ’s Final Tip:
“Gas is cheaper than regret. Start the jar early, and future you will be thankful — with pie.” 🥧
Be thankful… plan ahead!
