How to Financially Maximise Your DINK Era
So you and your partner are living that sweet, sweet DINK life two incomes, no kids (at least for now). Whether it’s a conscious choice or just your current season, one thing is clear: this is a golden opportunity to level up your finances.
Here’s how to make the most of your DINK era without falling into the trap of spending everything you earn.
1. Get on the same financial page
Just because you both earn doesn’t mean you’re automatically aligned. Schedule a regular “money date” (wine optional) and chat about:
Your shared financial goals
How bills are split (50/50? Proportionate to income?)
What lifestyle upgrades are worth it and which ones can wait
This helps avoid one partner feeling like they're always the saver while the other is the spender.
2. Build your emergency buffer
You’ve got dual incomes now, but what happens if one of you loses a job or needs time off? Use this period to beef up your emergency fund aim for at least 3–6 months of joint living expenses, if not more.
3. Avoid lifestyle creep
It’s so tempting to treat yourself more often when you have extra income, hello, $8 oat lattes and luxury skincare hauls. But if your spending rises just as fast as your income, you're not actually getting ahead. Pick a few key splurges that bring genuine joy, and let the rest go.
4. Save (and invest) like future you depends on it…because it does
This is your time to make some serious headway on:
Super contributions (especially for women, to combat the gender super gap)
Investing consistently - start with ETFs or index funds if you're unsure
Saving for big life goals: a home, travel, or even early retirement
5. Get strategic with your spending
Dual income gives you options, but having a strategy makes all the difference. Try:
Living on one income, saving the other
Setting joint financial goals (like a house deposit or 6-figure investment portfolio)
Automating savings and investments so it’s out of sight, out of spend
6. Use this time to upskill and grow
With fewer dependents, now might be the perfect time to:
Start that business you've been dreaming of
Go back to study
Take a calculated risk with your career
The flexibility you have now won’t always be there, so make it count.
TL;DR:
Your DINK era is a unique time to supercharge your financial future. It’s not just about spending less, it’s about being intentional with your money so that you can build the life you actually want (not just the one social media tells you to have).
***Please remember our blogs aren’t intended as financial advice - they’re intended only as a starting point to give you a little extra info! For more in-depth advice catered to your personal financial position, please see a certified financial advisor.
