Splitwise is a convenient way to split vacation expenses. It’s an awesome app that makes it easy to track shared expenses and split costs when traveling with a group. You and your friends can add different bills throughout the trip, and the app keeps track of who owes what, then helps you settle up at the end.
I’ve used it for everything from small getaways to group trips with over 10 people, and it makes sorting out money simple.
One of the best features is “Settle Up.” Let’s say Person A owes Person B $20, and Person B owes Person C $20. Rather than passing money through multiple people, Splitwise simplifies the chain so Person A just pays Person C directly. Fewer transactions, no confusion.
Another great thing? You can split expenses equally, by percentage, or by dollar amount — and you can include or exclude certain people on each charge. It’s flexible, which is key for group trips.
Let me walk you through how it works. I’ll use a recent trip with friends to Lake Lure as an example. Before the trip, we agreed that instead of splitting every restaurant bill or grocery receipt in real time, we’d just log everything in Splitwise and settle up afterward.
Step 1: Create an Account
If you’re new to Splitwise, start by creating a free a an account.
Step 2: Create a Group
Give your group a name — like “Lake Lure Trip” — and set it up in the app.
Step 3: Add Group Members
Invite your travel crew using their email addresses. Be sure to hit “Save” after each one.
Step 4: Add Expenses
Each person enters the expenses they paid for. The app will track everything and divide it according to how you choose — evenly, by percentage, or custom amounts.
Step 5: Add Your First Expense
Click “Add Expense” and enter the details (date, amount, who paid, and who the cost should be split between). For shared groceries, you might split the total equally among the group. Hit “Save” when done.
Step 6: Adjust Splits for Partial Attendance
For expenses not shared by everyone, like a dinner where not everyone joined, you can split by percentage or exclude people altogether.
- Select the “%” icon to split unevenly.
- Or uncheck a person if they weren’t part of that expense.
For example, if only three people attended a dinner, you can exclude the fourth from that specific bill. The app adjusts the math for you.
Step 7: Repeat for Each Expense
Keep adding expenses this way — whether they’re fully shared or only involve a few people.
Step 8: Settle Up
Once all expenses are added, just tap “Settle Up.” Splitwise will calculate the totals and tell everyone who they owe (and who owes them). It even minimizes the number of transactions needed.
I can’t tell you how easy Splitwise makes splitting costs. I love it. Whether you’re on vacation, sharing a house, or tracking group gifts. If you’re tired of doing mental math or chasing receipts, give it a try.