One of the things people always ask me is how I can afford to take the trips that I do. To some, it is mind boggling that I manage to get out of the country a couple times per year.…
How to Backpack on the Cheap
There are two limiting factors to traveling: time and money. We often find ourselves with one but not the other. Back in college, I had entire summers that I could’ve taken off except I didn’t have the cash (and perhaps…
5 Things I Like About Kiva.org – The Gift That Keeps on Giving
I’ve found that the more I travel, the more I realize how fortunate I have it. Even in our modern world, many places still lack running water and electricity. There are places where you’ll find kids without shoes playing in…
Facing an Uncomfortable Reality: Beggars
You’re walking down the street and you see a man sitting on the ground. He’s holding a sign with a cup out front. A moment of panic hits you. Do you walk past him or stop? Make eye contact or…
Haggling Tips for the Common Backpacker
Knowing how to haggle when backpacking abroad is a very important skill to have. Unfortunately, living in America has left us ill prepared. I’m willing to bet that the majority of people living in the US don’t know to haggle.…
I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane… For Free
I had been looking for somewhere to go for a much-needed break from work. Because 10 days was about the max I could take off, anywhere I went would have to be relatively close. I also wanted somewhere that is…
5 Things Every Backpacker Should Do Before Leaving Home
*If this is your first time here and you find this article useful, please subscribe to my RSS feed and check out the about page!* Despite my recommendation to roll with it and plan as little as possible (on long…