Ever set your heart on something (maybe a new bag, a fun trip, or even a fancy coffee maker), then wonder where the money went before you could buy it?
A WISHLIST AND SAVINGS TRACKER SPREAD can help with that.
This bullet journal layout lets you see exactly what you’re saving for and how close you are to reaching your goal. It’s a clear, no-stress way to keep your plans right in front of you. You don’t need a lot of accessories to start. A pen, a ruler, and a few quiet minutes are all it takes.
(If you want to add a bit of flair, grab a highlighter or washi tape.)
When you pair this spread with your budget planner, saving feels easier and even a little fun. Every time you color in a box or fill a section of your jar drawing, you’ll see your progress.
Ready to set up a spread that keeps you focused and makes saving feel good? Let’s walk through it step by step.
Why Combine a Wishlist + Savings Tracker Spread?
If you’ve ever filled up an online cart and then closed the tab because the budget didn’t quite match the wish list, this spread can help. A wishlist and a monthly savings tracker on the same page keep you focused on what matters most, without the guilt or second-guessing.
When you combine these two tools, you can see what you’re working toward and how close you’re getting. It’s a clear reminder of what’s worth saving for, and it helps you skip those little impulse buys (because another $7 lip balm probably isn’t the goal).
Saving feels more rewarding when you can actually see your progress. Whether you’re coloring in a bar, shading part of a jar, or checking off a box, each step shows how far you’ve come.
It’s an easy way to stay motivated and make saving feel more like a win, not just another task.
What to Include in Your Wishlist Spread
Setting up a wishlist spread should be simple and useful, something that helps you stay focused and excited about saving.
Here’s what to include to keep things clear and easy to follow:
1. Item name + estimated cost
Write down what you’re saving for and about how much it’ll cost. For example: “Air fryer — $85” or “New sneakers — $60”. This helps you plan ahead so surprise expenses don’t throw off your budget.
2. Reason for wanting it
Adding a quick reason keeps your list thoughtful.
Instead of “because it’s cute” (we’ve all been there), jot down something like “new coffee maker — ours broke” or “gym bag — replacing my old ripped one”. This helps you pause before adding random things you don’t really need.
3. Priority level or timeline
Not everything on your list is an emergency buy. Mark what’s “need soon” (like that coffee maker) and what’s more of a “someday treat” (maybe those cute earrings or a cozy throw).
This makes it easier to decide where to put your savings first.
4. Space for purchase date or notes
Leave a little spot to note when you finally buy the item or anything fun like “got it on sale!”. It’s a simple way to look back and feel good about your smart spending choices.
A wishlist spread keeps you focused on what you want, not those last-minute impulse buys that can throw your budget off track.
It’s like a little plan on paper that helps your money work smarter.
What to Include in Your Savings Tracker Spread
A savings tracker spread helps you see your progress in real time and makes reaching your goals feel exciting. The best part is that it can be super simple and still work.
Here’s what to include so it stays clear, motivating, and easy to update, even on busy days:
1. Goal amount and current saved amount
Write down your ultimate savings goal and how much you want to set aside.
Underneath, track how much you have saved so far. For example, “Emergency fund: Goal $1,000 / Saved $250” or “New laptop: Goal $800 / Saved $320.” This gives you a quick snapshot of where you stand.
2. Progress markers
This is where you can have a little fun. Pick a style that you enjoy filling in, like:
- A mason jar drawing you color in as you save.
- A simple bar graph that fills up bit by bit.
- Puzzle pieces you shade for every $10, $20, or any amount that works for your goal.
These visuals make saving feel more rewarding and help you celebrate even the small wins.
3. Target date (optional)
If you have a timeline in mind, write it down.
For example, “By October 1” or “Before summer trip.” This gives you a gentle reminder to stay on track. And if things change, you can always adjust it.
4. Fun extras
Your tracker doesn’t have to be just numbers. Add little touches that make it personal. Use striped washi tape or stickers when you hit milestones. Fill your progress bar with a favorite color.
Or write a small motivational note like “Every dollar counts” or “You’ve got this” for a little boost.
The goal is to make saving feel doable and positive. Each time you fill in a piece or update a number, you’re one step closer to what you want.
That’s something to feel good about.
Simple + Fun Wishlist and Savings Layout Ideas
Your wishlist and savings tracker spread should help you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed. Here are easy layout ideas that keep things clear and quick to use:
You can draw a jar or piggy bank and divide it into sections. Each time you save, color in part of it. This gives you a clear picture of how close you are to your goal.
Try keeping your wishlist on one side of the page and your savings tracker on the other. This lets you see what you’re saving for and how much progress you’ve made at a glance.
For something fun, create a puzzle design. Break a shape into pieces that match small amounts, like $10 or $50. Color in a piece each time you save and watch your goal come together.
A simple grid layout works well too. Make neat rows for each item, its cost, and your savings updates. This keeps everything tidy and easy to check. (perfect for those who want to get things done)
The goal is to choose a style that helps you stay on track. Keep it simple so you’ll want to keep using it.
How to Pair This Spread With Your Budget Planner
Your wishlist and savings tracker work best when they live in the same place as your budget planner. Add it as a section or mark it with a sticky tab so it is easy to flip to during budget check-ins.
(No one wants to waste time looking for pages)
Each time you review your budget, take a quick peek at your tracker. It helps you see where your money is going and how close you are to your goal. Shading in part of a jar or bar feels good. (Kind of like crossing something off a to-do list. So satisfying.)
When extra money pops up, like a side hustle payout or a cash birthday gift, plan for it right away. Decide if it goes toward that new blender or a concert ticket. A little planning keeps those random splurges in check.
This way, your savings and spending stay in sync. You will have a simple, clear path to the things that matter most.
Smart and Stress-Free Ways to Make Your Spread Work
A wishlist and savings tracker should be easy to use, not like one more task on your list. The simpler you keep it, the more likely you will stick with it.
Start with one or two colors. Maybe use soft blue for savings and yellow for goals. There is no need for a rainbow of pens unless that brings you joy. Color is just a tool to help your eye see progress fast.
Choose one small savings goal to begin. For example, $50 toward a coffee maker or a family day out. Reaching your first goal (no matter how small it is) will give you a nice boost. You will feel ready to tackle bigger goals before you know it.
Keep your layout flexible. Leave open space to add new ideas or update amounts. There is no rush to fill the page. Saving is a journey, not a race.
The point is to create a spread that helps you stay focused and feel good about your progress, not just fill up your planner.
And if you want an easy way to stay organized while tracking your savings, check out the Mini Budget Kit. It’s a simple tool that helps you plan, track, and stay on top of your goals without extra stress.
See Your Savings Grow and Enjoy the Journey
Your wishlist and savings tracker spread is more than just another page in your planner. It is a reminder of what you are working toward and why it matters.
This is not about reaching some perfect number overnight. It is about steady steps that help you get closer to the things you really want.
Whether you are saving for that coffee maker that makes mornings better, a fun weekend trip, or just a little cushion for those what-if days, this spread helps you stay focused without the stress. Every dollar you color in, every small goal you hit, that is real progress.
Watching your savings grow feels good. It is kind of like finding a surprise $10 in your coat pocket, except this time you made it happen. Take it at your own pace, make the spread work for you, and celebrate each little win along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to draw to make these spreads work?
Nope! If doodling isn’t your thing, don’t stress. A simple grid or list works just as well. A ruler and pen can give you clean lines, and you can always use stickers or washi tape for fun without picking up a pencil.
2️. What’s the best way to track small vs big savings goals?
For small goals (like a $50 treat), try a quick checklist or a tiny jar graphic. For bigger goals (think laptop or vacation fund), a progress bar, puzzle, or jar you fill in over time helps you see the journey without getting overwhelmed.
3️. Can I combine this with other trackers (like debt payoff)?
Absolutely! Your savings tracker can sit right alongside debt payoff spreads, budget logs, or expense trackers. Seeing it all together can actually help you balance priorities and feel more in control of where your money’s going.
4️. How often should I update my savings tracker?
Aim to update it during your regular budget check-ins, weekly or monthly works great. A quick glance at what you’ve saved keeps your motivation up (and helps you catch any spending leaks early).
5. Is there a way to track savings if I don’t want to use paper?
Yes! If paper planning isn’t your style, try a simple spreadsheet, notes app, or even a budget app that lets you log savings and wish list items. What matters most is keeping up with it, not how you track it!