Traveling for an extended period of time is a dream for many, but it can also be a daunting prospect when it comes to budgeting. After spending 18 months on the road, I can confidently say that it is possible to travel on a budget, but it requires careful planning and discipline.
When I set out on my journey, I knew that I wanted to see as much of the world as possible while still sticking to a reasonable budget. I started by creating a detailed budget breakdown to track my expenses and make sure I stayed on track.
Over the course of 18 months, I spent a total of $34,563.38 on my travels. Here is a breakdown of how that money was allocated:
Accommodation: $9,500
Accommodation was one of my biggest expenses while traveling. I stayed in a mix of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels, which allowed me to save money while still having a comfortable place to sleep each night.
Transportation: $8,000
Transportation costs can add up quickly when traveling long-term. I used a combination of flights, buses, trains, and even hitchhiking to get around. I also made use of budget airlines and travel passes to save money on transportation.
Food: $6,500
Food is another major expense while traveling, but I was able to save money by eating at local markets and street food stalls. I also cooked my own meals when possible and only splurged on dining out occasionally.
Activities: $5,000
One of the highlights of traveling is experiencing new activities and attractions. I budgeted a certain amount each month for tours, entrance fees, and other activities, which allowed me to see and do a lot while still staying within my budget.
Miscellaneous: $5,563.38
Miscellaneous expenses can add up quickly while traveling. This category includes things like travel insurance, visas, souvenirs, and unexpected expenses. I made sure to budget for these expenses each month so that I wouldn’t be caught off guard.
Overall, I found that by carefully tracking my expenses and sticking to a budget, I was able to travel for 18 months without breaking the bank. It required some sacrifices and careful planning, but the experiences and memories I gained were well worth it. If you’re thinking about embarking on a long-term travel adventure, I highly recommend creating a budget breakdown like mine to help you stay on track financially. Happy travels!