To quit your job and travel the world sounds like a fantasy, but it doesn’t have to be. People all over the world are ditching their traditional 9-to-5 grind in favor of a life outside the cubicle. After talking to some of those folks, they’ve given some very insightful suggestions. Using these tips while planning can help you to also make the switch.
Preparing To Cut Work Strings
1. Settle Your Debts
One of the most important parts of being able to quit your job and travel is reducing your debt. While you still have a reliable source of income pay off any excessive bills or costs that you currently have. If you have a credit card, getting that to a zero balance is the ideal goal. However, depending on your situation that may or may not be possible. In any case, try to get the balance to as close to zero as possible. You may need to rely on that credit card later for something important in your travels.
2. Cut Back Before Cutting Loose
Credits: LetgoIf quitting your job and traveling is something you want to do long-term, you need to cut back and downsize. Whether you live out of a suitcase or a motor home, you will inevitably have to get rid of stuff. Websites and mobile apps like Craigslist and Letgo are great. These places allow you to cut back by selling your items. Also, you can earn some extra money to save up for your travels.
3. Have A Budget
To successfully quit your job and travel you absolutely need to have a budget. With possibly less money and finding more things that you will want to experience, a budget is essential. It helps to build a financial picture of what you can afford to actually do. Without a proper budget, you will see your money go much faster than you expected.
4. Create A Travel Savings Account
Having a saving account that you can use while you travel is another good way to manage stress. Nothing is quite as stressful as financial matters. When the money gets lows stress levels begin to rise and can zap the fun from a good time. Having a small slush fund while you are traveling is a great way to have peace of mind.
5. Just Work Remote
There are a number of employers out there that are becoming more open to remote working. Some jobs are flexible enough and you may be able to convince your employer to allow to you work remotely. You may be surprised how open your employer is to the idea.
6. Have A Secondary Skill
Maybe you have an eye for photography or you’re an excellent baker. Perhaps you went to school to become a CPA or are a computer programmer on the side. These are examples of high demand jobs that are everywhere and easily be done remotely. You can always find clients on the road as long as you market yourself properly.
7. Find Seasonal Gigs As You Travel
If you enjoy camping there are seasonal jobs at most campgrounds, including being the Camp Host. There are similar jobs within the ski and winter sports areas. These jobs offer a wide range of benefits and amenities in addition to being paid. Work camping jobs are becoming a great way to move around and enjoy traveling while still earning a decent amount.
8. Pet And House Sitting
Your love of pets might be able to help you to save money while you travel. Websites like Trusted Housesitters and House Sitters America offers such a service. Members are able to house sit or pet sit and stay for free, while the owner is away. There are homeowners looking for sitters all over the U.S. and Europe.
9. Volunteer Work For Room And Board
For those of you with big hearts who thrive on giving back to others while they travel, organizations like Grassroots Volunteering, for example, offer free room and board. They are international so will have plenty of options for possible destinations. Although you may not get paid for the work you do, you will certainly have an unforgettable experience.
10. Take Your Home On The Road
Finally, for those few individuals that are serious about traveling long term and own homes, you have another option. In some areas where the housing market is still pretty high, you can always sell your home and buy a motor home. At a fraction of the cost of a traditional home, you could afford a very nice pre-owned motor home and still have plenty of money saved to live and travel for the next few years. With a few side gigs going and some planning, you could easily turn your corporate cubical life into the adventurous lifestyle you fantasized about.
