Long-distance relationships are hard enough without money stress. Here's how to manage finances when you're miles apart.
The Unique Costs of LDRs
- Flights/trains: The biggest expense
- Phone/video calls: International plans if abroad
- Gifts and care packages: Shipping costs add up
- Activities when together: You want to make it special
Splitting Travel Costs Fairly
Options that work:
- Alternate visits: You fly once, they fly next time
- Split every trip: 50/50 on each visit
- Proportional: Higher earner covers more
- Host pays local costs: Traveler pays transport, host pays activities
Tracking LDR Expenses Together
Even apart, you can use Pocket Clear's Partner Mode to:
- Log visit expenses
- Track who's spent more over time
- Plan and save for future visits
- See combined "relationship costs"
Building a Visit Fund
Create a shared savings goal:
- Each contribute monthly (even $50/each)
- Track contributions in the app
- Use it for flights or special experiences
When One Partner Moves
Planning to close the distance? Budget for:
- Moving costs
- Apartment deposits (often in new city)
- Job transition period
- Combined living expenses (finally!)
Start Tracking Together
Download Pocket Clear free. Simple expense tracking for couples and expats.