I did much of the same thing that Ryane did in respect for paying out of pocket. My parents didnt' have the finanical means that his did but I still don't have as much debt as I could for five years, two bachelors, and a CFI.

141 could reduce some of the 50 hours of xc time. If you have a local FBO that has a 141 program that isn't going to be super expensive this could be worth looking at. However, time is time. It all adds up for the big picture.

Then again, find an instructor that's willing to do some cross country time with you, and train for your instrument rating at the same time. Shoot approaches, get actual, and make the time valuable.