Travel the World for Under $9K a Year

How I live well, train hard, and stay mobile for less than $1,000 a month.

I've been living on the road for the past 6 years — staying in hostels, eating street food, training in gyms and parks, and chasing summer. My total yearly expenses are less than $9,000 USD, and no, I’m not hitchhiking or skipping meals. Here’s how I make it work.

My Approach

• Affordable accommodation: Mostly hostels or guesthouses under $6/night.
• Minimalist packing: I travel with a single 32L pack — no checked luggage or clutter.
• Street food: Cheap, quick, and often healthier than you'd expect.
• Slow travel: Staying longer in one place reduces transport and visa costs.

Want to see exactly how I pack for long-term travel? Check out my ultralight packing list tool.

Sample Monthly Budget

• Accommodation: $150–200
• Food: $200–250
• Transport: $50–100
• Visas, gyms, extras: $100–150

Total: Roughly $500–700 per month — well under $9,000 per year.

Where I Go

I rotate between low-cost countries with good weather, culture, and fitness options. Curious where I've been and what I recommend? Check out my destination guides.

Booking & Tools I Use

• Agoda – fast, affordable hostel bookings.
• Booking.com – another great option.
• Packing List Tool – make your own checklist.
• My PDF Guide – start smart.

Questions or want to start your own lean travel life? Contact me.