How I Afford to Live a 'Rich Life' While Traveling Full-Time

I quit my Corp job 2.5 years ago in 2019 and traveled full time (as much as covid would let me) from 2020 to present. The # 1 question I was repeatedly asked during this journey surprised me. It was “how do you afford this?” The whole scope isn’t something I can cram into 2200 characters. Here’s a list of principles I apply(ied) regularly in order to live my version of a “rich life.” ***Not telling you what to do, and this is what’s been working for me. 1. Attended Junior college first and then a small, affordable school in Utah because it allowed me to graduate with <$10k of debt, pay it off, and gain ROI immediately. 2. Being debt free is the best way I’ve found to live freely. If you are working to pay off things you buy or own, those things are actually owning you and your time. 3. Do not buy things to impress anyone. I spend money on experiences and things that will help me maximize experiences. I also do not buy anything I don’t have cash to afford. 4. Have mastered the art of budgeting and planning. 5. Use credit cards for EVERYTHING, and pay them off well in advance every month. This allows me to rack up points and finance travel with points, miles & gift cards. I also use the right cards for the right purchases to max pts. 6. When I was employed, I would max out my 401k each year. ICYW, the max in 2022 is $20,500/year. 7. Lived on my salary and saved all my bonuses. I called this my “f*** it Fund” & as it grew, so did my security and confidence to know that if I needed to I could say “F IT” and walk away when things weren’t serving me. And then I did. 8. Invested in the stock market 9. Lived well below my means and did not live paycheck to paycheck. 10. Negotiated EVERYTHING and mastered the art of negotiation. These were personal choices and so was taking a break to live a life in alignment with my heart and desires. I hope this transparency helps shine a light on alternative ways for you to enjoy your experiences to the fullest. If this is helpful, say so in the comments and I’ll add more details soon.