The honest truth – I never have the money I need to travel, but I buy the ticket anyway. I’ve realized that money comes and goes, but the more I make, the harder it is to part with it and weirdly, the less I have, the easier it becomes to budget.
I don’t do that saving account, checking account, travel account thing either. I am not rational. I am extreme. I want to travel and so I do. There is no in between. While I was working my first career job in public relations, I realized early on that it was going to take me forever to save all the money I would need to see the world. I come from a middle class family, I’m the middle child of five and I live in one of the most expensive places in America – Long Island, New York. I don’t have rich family members or know people that know people and I certainly can’t rely on inheritance to someday boost my dreams. So I focused on what I did have – a roof over my head, and the attitude that I can and will do anything I want.
… And I want to live around the world.
REWIND TO THAT PLACE IN TIME
I’m working seven days a week and I can’t even afford my own place yet. Five days at the PR firm and Saturdays and Sundays bar tending. For what? So I can slave away my 20s. Work 7 days a week to buy clothes for work and a $400 monthly train pass to get to work. I was literally working to afford working. And don’t get me wrong. I absolutely loved my job. I loved my clients, I loved my boss and I loved my interns. I was proud of where I was and where I was going, yet I still had something inside of me telling me that if I wanted to go all out for my career, I needed to give up that living around the world dream… and if I wanted to live somewhere else, I was going to need to give up my career.
And so the google search began. I have no money. But I want to travel for long periods of time. How do I do that?!
I’m going to need to work abroad.
Working while you travel is literally the smartest thing a person can do.
But you can’t do it forever. It’s only for the young. Sorry people. Not my rule. There are countries who will give you a year working visa but you have to be under 30. (Australia and New Zealand)
So with this information. It was now or never.
I mean, lets face it – If I moved into New York City when I was 24 years old, I’d be working to pay for my apartment. Once you leave the nest – rent till you die. Travel for me would not be likely for a very long time.
And even if I stayed home and kept working like I was – I wasn’t saving what I needed to get ahead. I was getting ahead in my career but financially, I was just getting by and some.
It was only when I thought about the life I was setting myself up for that I realized I was just fitting the mold, and the scariest part was that I liked it because I was used to it – it was the only life I had ever known.
If you tell people you work 7 days a week, they don’t see anything wrong with it. I didn’t. I was a champion. I was going places. If you tell them you work two jobs in one day, well then, you are a hard worker, a hustler, a person who is determined to succeed.
I hate that mindset now. Unless you know exactly what it is you are working for.
What’s up with our society that people are so proud to work so much just to get by? No. You are an adult. Working 40 hours should be enough to provide for your family and your home and everything you need. Especially if you are not working for your dreams. Working more should be an option. (You know for that iPad or pocketbook.) Not a must-do or you cant afford the rent. Or at least that’s how it should be. Kate for President, just saying.
Okay, but really – I understand that there are instances where you work a lot because you have a goal. Mine (at the time) was to afford an apartment in New York City so I could be closer to my job and break out of the nest. It was really exciting to think about – until I starting becoming excited thinking about where I would work on the weekends to afford this new life. Fall back. YOUR GOALS SHOULD NOT BE MATERIALISTIC. They should be focused on personal growth and just because your bank account is growing, it doesn’t mean you are. My mindset was all about money. Money for this, money for that. Bills, bills, bills, throw some money in the savings every month, go for drinks with friends, look for a husband – hey, everyone’s doing it – It’s called being responsible and having your head on straight. I can almost hear my parents sigh of relief when they thought I had lined myself up a successful future… but then I quit my career and crushed their dreams and I didn’t care because where was the room for my dreams? I had to break that mold.
Someone really tell me WHAT THE FUCK life is about? My generations economy sucks. Yet for some reason, everyone has nice things. A lot of us have two jobs, or are working overtime at our one job or even have three gigs going on – And if you don’t fill those categories – get off my page. (Just kidding, but really.)
SO I looked into it. PEOPLE DON’T HAVE MONEY FOR THE LIVES THEY ARE LIVING.
We finance almost everything. Your car, your house, your new big screen TV. OMG I am going to be poor for the rest of my life. But I won’t look poor. Because I’ll have credit cards.
LIGHT BULB.
Have you heard of 0% APR? Of course you have. Well it’s literally the only reason I can travel.
No I don’t have a rich family who funds my travels. Sorry to ruin your day.
When I moved to Australia on a Work and Holiday Visa I had $800 in my bank account. Crazy I know. I literally told my parents, ‘Okay I’m going to Australia. I only have $800 so if I don’t get a job in the first week, I’ll see you next Sunday.”
BLANK STARES
I was taking a risk I know. But what did I have to lose? Money? My whopping $800. Which is why having less money makes it easier to take chances. I was prepared and willing to fail for a dream I wasn’t sure would work. But lets be honest, I was NOT going to lose. I was on a goddamn mission and I don’t understand the word “no”.
SO
UNITED MILEAGE PLUS EXPLORER CARD – They gave me 50,000 miles for signing up and 5000 for adding someone to the account (which I did) and miles after spending $1000 in the first month (which I did because I put my plane flight on the card.)
This means, I basically racked up enough points (and by basically I mean, I had enough points) for a free flight home. I’m A GENIUS — And yes, I planned that out.
[NOTE: They have slightly changed the card. Look for deals and offers.]
THEN
CITI THANK YOU PREFERRED CARD – Boom! 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 12 months and a fee of 3% of my transfer. (Which sucks but I needed to.)
ARE YOU FOLLOWING ME?
I transferred all of my credit card balances to the THANK YOU CARD and set up the minimum monthly payment to automatically come out of my checking account every month.
I also set up my student loan to automatically be deducted every month as well.
NO WORRIES MATE – remember, it’s just money. (And it’s for my dream – Not a sweater and shoes.)
FROM THERE… I put a weeks stay at World Square Hostel, in an 18 bed dorm room (the cheapest bed they had) on my credit card.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD?
PB and J my friends. Not even J, just PB and the cheapest loaf of bread I could find in Sydney (which was $1, SCORE).
AND REALLY THE REST IS HISTORY
I found a job within the first three days. Applied for a tax file number. Set up an Australian bank account and after my first Australian paycheck I never had to touch my American credit card ever again. I was making about $1000 a week in Australia and working 35 hours a week. My rent was $150 a week. Eventually I transferred some money over to my American account just to keep paying the minimum payment on my THANK YOU card. But that was the last I had to worry about my American bills. I ended up SAVING $10,000 in six months working in Australia. And I used that money to travel Australia with. Never having to touch an American dollar.
I used this same strategy when I moved to Thailand. Except I started with $2000 as my backup if I didn’t get a job. (But I did.)
I may just be a master budgeter but I’m pretty positive this tactic can work for anyone who is as ambitious and money savvy as me. Don’t just go get a credit card and put everything on there. And don’t spend more than you can make. The most I ever put on the card was $3000. The point is to use it as a little loan to help you pursue a dream you may not have the money for right now, while keeping some money in your bank account for emergencies.
Good luck and be smart. (but not too smart – leave some space for risks!)
OH! AND AS FOR MY DREAM – In case it’s unclear… I want to live and work around the world. I want to experience culture. I want to be a local. See what it’s like to be someone from somewhere else. It’s not just about money anymore. It’s about life and challenges and doing things I never thought were possible for me.
I don’t know why I was so lucky to have been born in America – to have all these opportunities – to not even be close to being the richest person in my town but to still have so frikken much. I don’t know why I got to be born here and not somewhere else, but I know I won’t take it for granted.
If you are in a country where you can read this – Please don’t take it for granted. xx
Next read: Australian Work and Holiday Visa: Do It Yourself Guide
Related: How to Make Over $18/hr Backpacking Australia
Kate from the States 
Oh no! Well I’m not gunna lie, I always lie about how much I make. That’s the only way I’ll be approved. Fake it till you make it!
I’m so happy you read it all. That means a lot. Best of luck to you :)
Amazing story!. I learned a similar lesson close to a year ago and although I still spoil myself with little toys every now and then I’d rather see my bank account dwindle on experiences. I’ve yet to work up the courage to live over seas but I have definitely been enjoying my travels. I go somewhere every other month and my friends keep asking how I do it? How I can afford it?. Well… Where there’s a will there’s a way and you my friend were definitely willing to put it all out there. Best of luck and keep us updated o. your adventures! I will definitely be checking back.
I just legit LOLed. I remember telling my boss and being so scared. But she was actually impressed and encouraged me to do it. Even told me my position was still there for me when I got back. I almost passed out. Also, I was supposed to be gone for 4 months and now it’s two years later so I doubt that offer still stands but I hope the same works for you! Good luck!!
lolol I have to respond to this! But I don’t even know what to say. You’re just funny. Most people say, “but you’re a girl, and you’re traveling alone… and you’re pretty. That is dangerous and stupid.” And here you are saying that it’s helping me out. I can’t win hahaha Thanks for commenting though! It’s inspired me to write a new piece on that topic. Best of luck to you and you’re freelancing job :)
yes of course. Do you have a FB page to follow. I’ll follow you through my FB blog! Let me know and good luck to you too :)
You basically just summed up my entire thought process in one post! I also lived in Oz on a working holiday visa and afterwards traveled through Asia for a few months. Then went on to be an Aupair in England and traveled through Europe… All of this was done with the bare minimum in my checking account. I love when I tell people of my travels and they go “I’ve always wanted to do that” well then do it… It really can be that simple! Thank you for sharing from one nomad to the next Xxx
Kate – your article is going viral! Set up an ads account with google and make money from the ads!!!!
I’m not going to lie – I LOVE traveling alone! For one, I’m never alone. There are thousands of backpackers who are traveling right now and once you get to a new hostel it’s like you have a whole new family. Sometimes I wish I could just get a second alone because there are always people around. lol Unfortunately if you want to backpack, you’ll have to get over that fear – it’s not easy but if you want something bad enough, you’ll make it happen. Good luck :)
I know that fear. I was there. But I wanted to travel so badly. And if I was going to wait for my friends, I would be waiting for the rest of my life. Good luck to you — I’m going to write a post about this soon :)
<3
Waitressing job! And worked promotions for my hostel. My next post is about this :)
so true. you’re a great writer & the more I read i was like, “yeah! that’s exactly how i feel!”. you described perfectly my 20’s of working every job out there, just to work & pay for work. Now, I’ve got a job traveling the world doing what I love. It’s totally possible, but you’re right, tons of risk, but so worth it! Just go out & do it.
The loaf of bread experience referred to her arrival in Sydney when she still hadn’t found a job and had $800 in her bank account. Once she was employed I’m certain she experienced all of the culture and pleasures Australia has to offer. Also, many countries like Australia and Canada offer free healthcare to work permit holders so yes, she would have been covered. And when making $ 1000/week, anyone can afford insurance for their golden days. She is a realist and awesome for doing what most only dream of!
How!!!?
Right.. it really is so simple (when you stop thinking about how hard it is)! I am hoping to maybe au pair in Italy after this year but one step at a time. Looks like I’m following in your footsteps :) Thanks for commenting. So nice to know there’s others like me :)
Definitely hear ya – If you want it bad enough – You’ll find a way :)
Amsterdam is high on my list! Have fun there!!! You’ll make it work I’m sure– Good luck with everything :)
What even is the point of replying? You aren’t a realist, you are merely a sheep guided by the things that Americanism has led you to believe are important. Of course YOU could never do it…but that has nothing to do with the story or the mindset. Words of wisdom: quit fearing life and instead go and live it.
Yes! That’s my next blog post. It’s different for everyone but I’ll def share my story with you :)
After reading it was clear is that you should have left the USA before, because there are more countries that offers similar lifestyles like that. Not my style but I think it’s a great adventure and hope you for the best ;) PS- Don’t forget Tibete
You rock.
Hi there – totally relate and I find this inspiring. Breaking the mold is sucky but necessary at times.
I’m interested in how you dealt with student loans. You mentioned setting up an automatic deduction, but how did the foreign exchange work out for you? Was it something you needed to outsource?
Also – did you know anyone in Australia or Thailand?
And – gotta ask, is this a Chase and/or United promo?
I know how difficult it is to come over after being in SEA :( I’m so happy you could relate and that you’re going to pick up again. Good luck to you!
I did say you may not like what I’m going to say :)
I’m writing a post on this now. I waitressed and I worked promotions for my hostel. My plan was to do the backpacker thing but my former boss in Manhattan encouraged me to meet her friend… who just so happened to be a director at a PR firm in Australia … so then, I did that 3 days a week too. You just never know what’s going to happen :)
This is my next blog post — Soon I promise!
i love that this is coming from a Kate and not Chris. It’s always harder for a woman to travel because of hygiene and using the restroom you can’t sleep just about anywhere like a guy without risking the chance of getting raped. I’ve never read about a woman just up and going everywhere because of all these factors but I applaud Kate. You’ve got my standing ovation.
You know what I never had anything made in Bangkok but you definitely should lol! Where else are you going besides Bangkok?
I’m so happy that you could bounce back from everything you’ve been through. Good luck. You’re future holds so much more than you could ever imagine .. so keep your spirits high and keep doing what you’re doing :)
This made me feel so much better about my dreams! I’m starting small but in May I will move from Florida to California. I plan to travel to world just like you, and I’m only beginning! I’m 22 and have lived in four cities in Florida on my own. It’s time to expand! Good luck and safe travels! :)
No. I made $20 an hour plus tips… My next blog post is on this !
I waitressed. My next post it on this :)
Thank you for reblogging!
hey… thank you for that. seriously :)
lol no I don’t think that United would be very happy that I duped them.
Way cool! And for the negative people… You won’t ever ever understand!
did you not read the saved 10,000 in 6 months part? obviously she could afford medical bills and i dont think her forever goal is to keep this up, just travel while she is young, then she has so much experience to fall back on if she ever wants to move back to the US and work, any one would hire her.
you could have probably gotten an endorsement from Chase too
You’re giving dangerous advice and sending people down a slippery slope. You are generalizing and rounding numbers in your favor. I have been traveling for at least 3 months a year for the past 11 years and I have done that by setting myself up; not by risking everything I have. You glorify your experiences and pretend that it is freeing to just change your mentality to a “What’s the worst that could happen?” scenario. You are not extreme, just irresponsible. Describing such a one sided view shows how obviously inexperienced you must be and how you rely on people as a security net. Traveling is great and you shouldn’t let social views stop you from experiencing things during your prime, however you shouldn’t do it so foolishly. If you truly want to expand peoples minds then I would suggest describing the difficulties finding a company willing to hire a foreigner and the challenges of getting working visas. Not just making $1000/week after 3 days. To be in Thailand for 2-3 months and only spending $2000 is not being a master budgeter by any means. You are a poser and its really sad the way you portray budget traveling.
O email me Please! Id love to talk to you. This is literally my dream.i loved reading this and its an inspiration. You have some balls :) lol..I have such a want to travel and am seriously getting sick of $$$$$ 24/7 stress..like whats the point? Im young And I need that push..you may be it. Id love to hear from you
Yes you’re right … And lead a boring life instead? I think I prefer Kate’s way ;)
Follow your dreams and collect memories, coz in the end, that’s the only thing we really own in this life :)
I owned 2 business, made a lot of money, but one day I realised I wasn’t doing what I really wanted… Gave it all up, followed my dreams, lost ALL my savings :)
10 years later now, I’m the happiest man in the world coz live my passion everyday, am living my dream, doing what I really want in life.
We only have 1 short life here, make the best of it ..,
Peace
What did you get a job doing? bartending?
I admire this so much and totally have the same dream!! I want to travel and live everywhere. You’re awesome!!!
Very Inspiring. Im going to do the same thing BUT will get a job as a flight attendant able to travel around the world
https://support.google.com/adwords/topic/3119115?hl=en&ref_topic=3119071
Thanks for the advice. Any tips for getting hired in Australia? Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!
lol ok. I did title this… And you may not like what I’m going to say. my story. not yours :)
I live in Dallas and am able to work 40 hours a week or less and still afford to pay rent, save for retirement and travel. Your article is interesting but I think your location being so expensive put you in a difficult position that not everyone has to deal with
0% interest.. and I pay them off :)
Kate I am so unbelievably jealous of you! These tips you posted are really great and I want to definitely do something like you did one day!! I hope all of your dreams come true