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 
What kind of jobs did you get?
Teach me these ways of the ninja. This is truly inspiring because I only wish to travel. & I’m only 24! From your experiences what Country seems to be to easiest to adjust to in regards to finding work & Living for a first timer? :( Hope I’m making sense
Hi, I am just learning about the 1yr work visa in Australia and although I have been working in the same career for about 5 years now it’s not a passion. I am very curious to know what sort of job you were able to get so fast in Australia? What sorts of jobs would you suggest?
Reblogged this on Writing a Paige and commented:
Thats absolutely amazing, it inspires me to strive for this!
Just stumbled upon this and as I’m heading to Australia to do a working holiday at the end of Jan, it was really interesting to hear how you did it and especially how much money you saved there! Can’t wait to get over there now!
Just a question what job did you obtain in Australia and Thailand? The PR side of things or in a restaurant/bar? Have always wanted to travel and currently working in the food and beverage industry/ hospitality. I’ve been wondering if I could make it work in another country
Literally just cried reading your message. I’ve been traveling solo for the past three years and never felt so at home. Thank you for sharing! Just started my own YouTube channel TRAVELBACKTUESDAY – would love to hear what you think. Thanks for sharing your inspiration and encouragement. Your wise words of wisdom are making a difference. Thank you and keep chasing those dreams! You got this!
What jobs have you been working in other countries?
WOW. This has truly opened my eyes and you make it seem so easy! I have always wanted to travel the world. To live different experiences, food, and culture. This is truly inspiring.
My question is what do you do for a living? What kind of jobs are you looking for when you do this?
I like this plan, but I’m a scientist and I don’t think there’s a lot of jobs that I can just walk in and ask for. Too specific.
Great post. I’m stuck thinking, I NEED MONEY TO TRAVEL! And being “discipline” enough to save enough is challenging. However, you answered an interesting question I didn’t even know I had!
How much money is “enough” money to travel the world on?
I also really like the idea of being ok with struggling with money, either, in your hometown or traveling the world. I personally would rather “struggle” with money, while fulfilling my dreams of see this gorgeous world we have small amounts of time on.
My question is, what was the “hardest” part in taking the first step? Being comfortable with taking giant action with little money, fear of the unknown, picking where you want to go, etc..
Cheers! :)
Yeah! Really loved this, I totally agree with your ethos and its so good to see that it’s possible to live the dream. My only fear is the dangers of being a solo female traveller- have you found this to be a problem at all?
Looking forward to reading your next posts!
I’m 19 years old and this blog along with this comment are just inspiring me even more! Love reading this.
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Not hating by any means (I’ve been traveling the world the last 2 years on my savings) but you say you were working 7 days a week to save for an apartment……but you only had $800 in your bank account at the end of it?
Also you say, “I don’t know why I was so lucky to have been born in America – to have all these opportunities” but you implied it’s impossible to get ahead there and without the opportunity AUSTRALIA(I’m Australian, great country to save some cash!) provided you, you would be back in the states in a week, as you put it.
That to me undermines the whole article. Glad to here you’re loving the travel life though, it’s pretty rad.
P.S The Americas consist of 35 countries, not just the United States of America.
Cool stuff.
Nick, I don’t know if you’re looking for other responses, but I’ll add a few words.
You bring up very valid points about growth, connection & bonding with others, and life choices.
In my experience, traveling and immersing yourself in other cultures brings unimaginable awareness and bonds that staying in one location can not provide. Only a willingness to explore and take the risk of leaving the comfort of the ‘known’ will enlighten you.
Take one step into the pond of life and travel, like Kate here, and you will see there are cultures and friends awaiting you.
Personally, my best life experiences ,and close meaningful conversations have been along the path of travel.
Kate – It’s nice to read your words. Good luck… What’s next?
Hi Kate,
I love your story and it’s so inspiring! Can you shed some more light on how you found a job so fast and was it within your career industry? I would love to do what you did but I worry because my degree is barely specific (communication & psychology). Thanks!
LOVE this !!
Study abroad while in university!! That’s what I did to sooth those restlessness to travel. :)
I’ve been dreaming to go travelling for years. And I’m only 19 now, but am finnishing my qualification first, I’ll have saved over £5000 by then. Does that mean that all that money isn’t even needed??
Finally found someone i can call a rival (:
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What kind of work were you able to find? Id absolutely love to do this, but being only 20 I lack not just skills but experience in almost every field of work. Ive been thinking about this for a while but the fear of being unprepared scares the shit out of me lol.
I finished reading this article and found myself in complete disbelief, I felt I was reading my own life! I quit my job a year ago and booked a ticket to America from South Africa with about the same amount of $ as you originally had, I haven’t looked back since and I guess I’ve just been getting by selling artwork as I go, the people and memories I’ve made can’t compare to anything!
I am a 60 year old woman and have travelled (alone) to many wonderful places – 4 continents so far – & I love the reply: “Never. I have relationships all over the world because I travel. A global family. I will never regret that”. I totally agree with you.
What did you do in Australia where you made $1000 a week?
I’m on the same personal journey girl. I finished uni, got the full time bank job that was expected of me – plus working nights at a restaurant to afford my downtown apartment in Vancouver, Canada. I had nice things, but i had no life. So I packed everything up into four boxes, quit my jobs, broke up with my boyfriend and travelled to South east Asia to volunteer at orphanages. I’ve been here since August. Now I’ll be going home for Xmas and then off again to live and work in Australia. Next stop after that South America. Do more with less – travelling is the only thing you can spend money on that makes you richer. Good for you for figuring it out. I hope more people do aswell.
Other countries don’t have the age limit, pick somewhere else and go for it! No excuses!
I met my husband teaching internationally! Teaching is a fantastic way to travel and make money :)
Life is about collecting experiences and developing as a human being so that you can actually contribute to the true richness of the world.
Unfortunately the modern condition and system has been bastardized and no longer serves the people. Why be a part of something that is not in your best interests?
We are conditioned to believe that being a part of the system is the responsible, and even the only path to leading a successful and happy life. That’s what they want you to believe, to be a productive member of society to serve their interests.
At the end of the day we live and then we die, and if you died tomorrow, would you be satisfied with the life you’ve led?
Dear KJ, this sounds like what I aspire to write at your age. I wish to have traveled the world and create a life for myself. I have a world of questions to ask you, as a young college student about to graduate. Your post filled me with excitement and hope! If you wouldn’t mind, i would love more than anything to learn about your travels and your life! here is my email, i look forward to hearing from you. Monika.danis@gmail
Though the credit card debt is going to be like a monkey on your back later in life – you will be happy with he memories and the experiences you had. As you say, it’s only money… Keep it up – don’t let the haters bring you down. I’ve got a saying: you can’t put a price on travel. Just do it. Now I’m trying to figure out how to do it cheaply with 2 kids and a wife…
Call me naive or whatever but this article made me rethink my entire (ENTIRE) career and path of life. Thank you for recon firming that dropping your job and traveling isn’t irresponsible but rather essential for my soul. I thank you for that
Excellent! Never wait to have enough money to travel…..travel a lot when you are young…..just go you will figure the rest out. Travelers know all you need is a ticket, a warm sweater and an open spirit
51 years old and 35 countries in the last 5 years with a whirlwind 17 last year. You don’t have to be 25 but you do have to be a brazen dreamer with a determined spirit.
Oh my goodness. I have the best relationships life could give me. Prostelitize to yourself. God gave us hearts and smiles. That gives you family and friends. I just lost someone i met in my travels. You know how deep the love is when the pain is this deep from the loss. I have a global family that i cherish and they cherish me! These are deep relationships. I have had the ‘stable’ home, family and friends and i have had my world family and friends. The love is the same. I gave up nothing and gained the world!
Great blog!
Just wondering what you did to get a job so quickly in your travels! And that pays well too! This sounds amazing!
I think I’m going to do this.
I’m from super materialistic South Florida and had a similar story as you. I moved across the country to Eugene, Oregon on a whim. It been almost a year now and I have found some amazing opportunities to do what I find to be very fulfilling. I wanted to reach out as I resonated very much with your story and it awesome to see another story in that is also some what reinforces my faith to keep moving in times of doubt. It’s even more dope that you’re inspiring others to takes leaps of faith in a wise manner. Keep doing your thing. Be peace.
Thank you for your inspiration. I could not agree more with everything you wrote. The world needs more people with courage like you. Best of luck on your beautiful journey.
What job did you get in Australia for $1000 a week for only 35 hours?!
This is an inspiring story and it would be great to live like this, but even if you weren’t rich when you went to Australia, you had saved up and must have had decent enough credit to open those cards. The economy sucks so much right now that I dunno what’s worse: not having credit for new cards or predatory lending for cards you can’t afford.
Also, what kind of work do look for when you go to other countries? It seems hard – and super impressive on your part.
BTW, not to be condescending, just frustrated at home and haven’t gotten to travel in ages. The encouragement is refreshing.
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This is fantastic and such an inspiration. Follows your dreams! That’s what living is about. You go girl.
Yes! I completely agree with you.
Great post. Thanks for sharing :)
You did the best thing you can do in your life! And you know what? My case was very similar to yours;)
Glad to did this experience like you!
Loving Australia <3
Reblogged this on alondralives.
Exactly kate! I have the same mindset for people. It is not harmless to meet friends all over the world. Your contacts are international rather just in one country.