Vancouverite's Honest Budget Breakdown: A Spontaneous Trip to New York and Budgeting Lessons Learned

Vancouver Woman's Honest May Spending Vlog Sparks Budgeting Discussion A recent vlog by Vancouver-based Chelsea (@chelseaspursuit) offers a transparent look at her May spending, totaling $4,549. The video details her budgeting process, revealing both expected and unexpected expenses. Fixed costs accounted for $2,556, while needs spending reached $806, exceeding her budget by $141. This overspending was primarily due to increased fuel costs and grocery expenses, as she explains, "Lots more driving than expected." Her wants budget also exceeded expectations by $83, with a significant portion spent on coffee and a spontaneous trip to New York. Despite exceeding her budget, Chelsea maintains a one-month buffer in her checking account, providing a safety net for unexpected expenses. "I aim to stick to my budget," Chelsea shared in her video, "but I also don't have to be super strict. It's a tool to guide my spending and keep me in tune." Chelsea's video highlights the challenges of budgeting and the importance of financial planning, resonating with many viewers.