5 tips to complete the 100 envelopes challenge

Saving can sometimes feel like a chore, but the 100 Envelopes Challenge makes it a lot more fun and manageable. For 100 days (or longer, if you like), you fill envelopes with amounts between €1 and €100. Ultimately, you'll have saved €5,050 ! Sounds fantastic, right? But how do you ensure you stick to this challenge without stress?

At Vaye Amsterdam, we know how important it is to organize your finances well. That's why we've compiled 5 handy tips for you to successfully and enjoyably complete this savings challenge!

1. Start with a plan

Okay, you've decided to take on the 100 Envelopes Challenge . Great! But... don't just jump in. A little preparation will prevent you from getting stuck halfway through.

• Define your goal: What are you saving for? A dream vacation, an emergency fund, or just some extra money for fun things? Knowing why you're saving makes it easier to stay motivated.
• Check your budget: Look at your income and expenses. Can you afford to put down large sums, or is it better to save smaller amounts? You can also try the 52-week challenge if 100 envelopes is a bit much.
• Use a budget planner: Want real insight into your finances? Then a budget planner is your best friend. It helps you track your savings and your income and expenditure.
• Choose an approach: You can randomly draw an envelope each day, or use a structured system (for example, saving from low to high). What works best for you?

2. Be Flexible with Amounts

One of the biggest misconceptions about this challenge is that you have to save a large amount every day . That's completely unnecessary! The beauty of this method is that you decide when to fill each envelope.

• Tough month? Don't stress! Have unexpected expenses? Then fill a small envelope, like €2 or €5.
• Extra income? Save smart! Are you getting holiday pay or a bonus? Then you might be able to fill a larger envelope, like €80 or €100.
• Adjust the challenge: No one says you have to do this in 100 days. Feel free to take 6 or 12 months !

💡 Pro tip: Use a budget planner to track your progress. This provides clarity and makes the process even more enjoyable!

3. Make it a routine

As with everything, consistency is key . By creating a regular routine, saving becomes a habit and prevents you from forgetting to fill an envelope.

• Set a savings time: Choose a fixed time each day or week to fill your envelopes. For example, every Sunday evening or every other day after work .
• Automate your savings: Don't want to constantly manage cash? Use a separate account and transfer the funds to digital piggy banks.
• Make it a fun habit: Put on a cozy playlist, have a cup of tea, or write in your day planner while you save. This way, it becomes a moment for yourself!

💡 Pro tip: Track your progress! A savings tracker helps you see how much you've saved and how much you still need to save.

4. Make it your own and personalize your binder

If you enjoy something, you're more likely to keep doing it. That's why it's important to personalize your envelopes and savings method .

• Choose a binder that suits you: A beautiful budget binder makes saving organized and fun. You can choose from various colors and styles.
• Make it visually appealing: How cool is it to see how much you've already saved? Use a savings tracker to check off which envelopes are already filled.
• Motivate yourself: add dashboard quotes for extra motivation

Tip : Create a mood board with your savings goals! Post photos of your dream vacation, your future home, or anything else you're saving for. This will keep you motivated.

5. Celebrate small successes!

Saving feels even better when you celebrate your successes every now and then. You don't have to wait until all 100 envelopes are filled – celebrate the small milestones!

• Filled 10 envelopes? Treat yourself to a nice coffee outside.
• Reached 25% of your goal? Buy yourself a small gift.
• Halfway through the challenge? Take a relaxing day or do something fun with friends.

Rewarding yourself motivates you to keep going. After all, you're working towards something, and those little moments make it enjoyable!

Tip : Track your savings goals with a savings tracker and write down how much you've saved each month. This will keep you motivated and show you your progress in black and white.

This is how you complete the 100 envelopes challenge

The 100 Envelopes Challenge is a super fun and effective way to save money. But it doesn't have to be stressful! These tips will keep it doable and fun:

✅ Start with a plan and determine your savings goal.
✅ Be flexible with amounts and adapt the challenge to your situation.
✅ Create a routine and make saving a habit.
✅ Choose envelopes and binders that suit you and personalize your savings process.
✅ Celebrate small successes and stay motivated!

At Vaye Amsterdam, we have everything you need to successfully achieve your savings goals. From budget binders to planners and savings trackers – we'll help you get started!

Ready to get started? Browse our collection now and begin your savings challenge today!