She Strengthens

Unlocking the Secret to Affordable International Travel

Are you tired of feeling trapped in a 9-to-5 job with limited time and resources to explore the world? You’re not alone. Many of us face the same conundrums when it comes to taking a break from our daily routine to travel abroad. But what if I told you that with some careful planning, smart scheduling, and a bit of hustle, you can make your international travel dreams a reality?

From Fear to Freedom

It took me five years to muster up the courage to ask my boss for two weeks off to trek to Peru’s Machu Picchu for my 30th birthday. But once I did, I realized that having a good reputation for working hard gave me leverage. My boss wanted to ensure I was happy, and I was able to negotiate not one, but two trips abroad in 2015.

The Power of Prioritization

While prioritizing travel can be costly, it’s not impossible. By taking on an extra job and cutting back on unnecessary expenses, I was able to save up for my trips in just three to four months. Here are some strategies that worked for me:

Schedule Smart

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to quit your job to travel extensively. Instead, schedule your trips over existing holidays or slow periods at work. As a newspaper reporter, I promised my boss a certain number of stories before I left, ensuring a seamless transition during my absence.

Side Hustle Your Way to Savings

Rent out a spare room, take on a part-time job, or cut back on unnecessary expenses to boost your savings. I bartended at a local brewery one day a week and put everything I made into a travel fund. By making small sacrifices, I was able to save up $500 a month.

Make Travel a Career Boon

Turn your trip into a career opportunity. Attend conferences, conduct research, or offer to write feature stories about your destination. This can help you negotiate “professional development” days and time to explore.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Pick a destination that’s easily accessible and won’t eat into your precious vacation days. I opted for South America, just a five-hour flight from Florida, rather than Thailand, which would have required four days of travel.

Negotiate for More Vacation Days

If you’re passionate about travel, consider asking for more vacation days in lieu of a raise. While it may not work for everyone, it’s worth a try. As companies increasingly prioritize flexibility and quality of life, they may be more willing to negotiate with you.

By following these strategies, you can turn your international travel dreams into a reality, even on a limited budget and with a 9-to-5 job. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!