Your Year-Long Adventure: How to Make it Happen with only $24k Budget for Two

Your Year-Long Adventure: How to Make it Happen With Only $24,000 Budget for Two

Do you have a dream of embarking on a year-long adventure? Well, guess what? it's entirely doable! We're here to share some valuable tips and tricks on how to make this incredible journey happen with a budget of $24,000 for two people.

Let's start at the very beginning: Our adventure began in July 2022, and we didn't return home until the end of June 2023. During this epic journey, we managed to stamp our passports in a total of 11 countries. Now, that might not seem like a lot, but here's the catch—we spent extended periods in almost every single one of them. This approach not only helped us cut costs but also allowed us to dive deeper into the local culture. At one point, we were switching locations and countries almost every other day, and trust us, settling down in one place for 2-4 weeks was way more enjoyable.

So, where did we leave our footprints, you ask? Here's the rundown:

1. Thailand - We explored Bangkok, relaxed in Phuket, and indulged in the beauty of Koh Samui.
2. Malaysia - Our journey took us to Kuala Lumpur and the stunning Langkawi.
3. Indonesia - Bali, need we say more?
4. Singapore - We marveled at the wonders of the vibrant city-state.
5. Vietnam - We immersed ourselves in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, enjoyed the coastal charm of Danang, wandered the ancient streets of Hoi An, and explored the rich history of Hanoi.
6. Japan - From the dazzling lights of Tokyo to the cultural treasures of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and the serene beauty of Okinawa, we covered it all.
7. The Maldives - Our paradise on Earth included Thoddoo, Rashdoo, and Ukulhas.
8. UAE - We experienced the opulence of Dubai and the grandeur of Abu Dhabi.
9. Georgia - Our adventure led us to the charming cities of Tbilisi and Kutaisi, with countless breathtaking stops in between.
10. Austria - We soaked in the cultural delights of Vienna.
11. Slovakia - We explored the charming streets of Bratislava.

Now that you have a better picture of the kind of journey we embarked on, let's dive into some tips for your own incredible adventure!

1. Start Saving Early

Embarking on a year-long trip requires financial planning. Begin by setting a budget and a savings goal. Create a dedicated travel fund and contribute to it regularly. The sooner you start, the more financial comfort you'll have as you embark on this undetermined and agile journey.

2. Budget-Friendly Flights

Keep your eyes peeled for deals and promotions. Consider booking multi-city flights as they can often be more cost-effective and guide you through your journey. For instance, why head straight to Bali when you can make stops in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur? Booking well in advance can also help you snag better deals.

3. Diverse Accommodations

Accommodation costs can vary greatly. Explore a range of options, including hotels, apartments, hostels, and even home-sharing platforms like Airbnb. In fact,We found all our 42 (you read that right, forty two places to call home!) accommodation places through airbnb and booking.com platforms. Staying in one place for extended periods can yield significant savings too (especially while booking through airbnb), so keep that in mind.

4. Cash Management

Managing your finances while traveling is crucial, so keep an eye on your cash flow. Make strategic cash withdrawals as needed. Pre-exchange currency to secure favourable rates and avoid less advantageous airport exchanges. Cash in Asia is crucial, even in Japan - who knew!

5. Get Around Wisely

Transportation costs can significantly impact your budget if you're not mindful. Rather than indulging in costly car rentals, we wisely chose more budget-friendly alternatives. In countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, we opted for scooter rentals and extensively relied on public transportation throughout our journey, taking advantage of efficient bus and train networks prevalent in Asia.

It's essential to note that traffic conditions can be challenging in many Asian destinations, making renting a car less advisable. Instead, we highly recommend considering scooter rentals as a practical and cost-effective means of getting around.

6. Visa Preparedness

Visa fees can sneak up on you. Allocate a portion of your budget for visas and extensions. Always research and stay informed about visa requirements for your destinations.

7. Plan and Adapt

Plan your journey meticulously, booking accommodations and flights in advance for better deals. However, don't forget to remain flexible. Embrace opportunities that arise along the way, even if it means adjusting your plans.

Throughout our journey, we strategically planned our visits to specific countries, typically one to two months ahead of time. There were compelling reasons behind this approach. Firstly, many countries require travelers to provide proof of onward travel to be granted entry. Without such evidence, immigration officers may deny entry. Secondly, the vast and unfamiliar world of destinations for an entire year made it challenging to pinpoint our exact preferences and routes in advance.

8. Experience Over Luxury

Allocate your budget wisely by prioritizing experiences over luxurious accommodations. Invest in local activities, cuisine, and cultural immersion to make the most of your adventure.

9. Prioritize Health Insurance

Don't overlook the importance of health insurance for your year-long adventure. Unexpected medical expenses can quickly eat into your budget when traveling abroad. Having comprehensive health coverage ensures you're financially protected in case of illness or accidents, allowing you to travel with peace of mind. It's a worthwhile investment in your well-being and financial security during your journey.

10. Embrace the Adventure

Above all, embrace every moment of your adventure. Connect with locals, immerse yourself in new cultures, and cherish the sense of freedom that comes with exploring the world. Remember, it's the journey that makes it extraordinary.

With a $24,000 budget and these tips in your travel arsenal, your year-long adventure awaits. Start saving, plan thoughtfully, and remain open to the wonders and surprises of the journey. Bon voyage! 🌍✈️🌴