The dream of travelling full-time as a family can sometimes feel unattainable. However, with the right strategies and mindset, you can turn this dream into reality. After embarking on our own journey and sharing my families journey of how we afford full time travel, we discovered various ways to manage our finances while exploring the world. In this guide, I’ll share actionable tips and personal insights that can help aspiring digital nomads make full-time travel a feasible lifestyle.
How Families Can Afford Full-Time Travel: A Practical Guide
1. Decoding the Costs of Full-Time Travel
Understanding the financial implications of full-time travel is crucial for effective planning. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses you’ll encounter on your journey.
Key Expenses to Consider
- Accommodation Costs:
- Hotels: Generally suitable for short stays, family-friendly hotels can range anything from £30 to £200 per night. If you prefer comfort and convenience, plan for this in your budget.
- Hostels: Many hostels now offer private family rooms, with rates typically between £15 and £100 per night. They can be a great way to meet fellow travellers.
- Short-Term Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb can provide family-friendly spaces, often ranging from £35 to £200 per night. Look for properties with kitchens to save on meals.
- House Sitting: This option can offer free accommodation while allowing you to enjoy a home-like experience. Websites like TrustedHousesitters can help you connect with homeowners.
- Food Expenses:
- Dining Out: Meals at restaurants can quickly add up, costing anywhere from £10 to £100 for a family meal. It’s wise to balance dining out with cooking at home.
- Grocery Shopping: Depending on the country, a family can eat well for £50 to £150 per week if you prepare most meals. Local markets often offer fresh produce at affordable prices.
- Street Food: Embrace local cuisine through street food, which is often tasty and inexpensive, usually costing around £2 to £5 per meal.
- Activity Budget:
- Attractions: Allocate funds for entrance fees to attractions, ranging from £5 to £30 per person. Look for family discounts to make outings more affordable.
- Excursions and Tours: Unique experiences such as guided tours or adventure activities can cost between £20 and £200 per person, so budget accordingly.
- Transportation Costs:
- Flights: Airfare is one of the most significant expenses. Consider using budget airlines or travel reward points to save money.
- Local Transport: Public transport is usually cheaper than taxis. Budget around £100 to £200 per month for local transport.
2. Identifying Remote Work Opportunities
Finding sustainable remote work is essential for funding your travels. Here’s how you can explore job options that align with your skills and lifestyle.
Freelancing Platforms
- Upwork: A versatile platform that connects freelancers with clients in various fields.
- Freelancer: Offers a wide range of freelance jobs across different industries.
- Remote.co: Dedicated to listing remote job opportunities, this site helps you find roles that fit your skills.
- FlexJobs: A subscription-based service that curates legitimate remote jobs and flexible work options.
Creative Ways to Network
- Digital Nomad Communities: Engage with online groups and forums where fellow digital nomads share job leads, experiences, and advice. Joining these communities can be an excellent way to make connections and learn from others.
- Social Media Networking: Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to showcase your skills and engage with potential employers or clients. Share your journey and connect with others in the industry.
Personal Experience:
In my experience, networking through social media has led to numerous opportunities. By joining relevant groups and participating in discussions, I found freelance gigs that aligned with my skills and passions.
3. Budgeting for Your Travel Lifestyle
Budgeting is essential to maintaining your travel lifestyle. Here are some strategies to help you save:
Creating a Budget Template
Creating a budget template is one of the first steps to managing your finances. Download my budgeting template here to plan your expenses. Use it to track your income and expenses, including accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.
Saving Strategies
Consider these strategies for saving money before and during travel:
- Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Review your monthly spending and identify areas where you can cut back. This might include subscriptions, dining out, or impulse purchases.
- Travel Hacking: Use credit card rewards and points to reduce travel costs. Sign up for travel credit cards that offer bonus points for signing up and using them for everyday purchases.
- Emergency Fund: Set aside an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses while travelling. Aim for at least three months’ worth of living expenses.
Example:
Before we left the UK we cancelled all our TV subscriptions that we didn’t use and were just paying for including our main TV package subscription! We now just have Netflix and that’s all we watch on the go.
4. Affordable Accommodation Options
Finding affordable places to stay is crucial for long-term travel. Here are various options to consider:
Types of Accommodations
- House Sitting: Websites like TrustedHousesitters connect you with homeowners looking for someone to care for their pets and property. This is a fantastic way to stay for free while enjoying a new location.
- Hostels: Many hostels are family-friendly and offer private rooms, making them a budget-friendly option. Look for hostels with good reviews on family accommodations.
- Airbnb: You can often find entire homes or apartments suitable for families at various price points. Look for hosts with excellent ratings and reviews.
Pros and Cons:
| Accommodation Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| House Sitting | Free accommodation | Limited availability |
| Hostels | Affordable and social | May lack privacy for families |
| Airbnb | Flexibility and kitchen access | Prices can vary significantly |
Tips for Booking Accommodation
- Book in Advance: Secure your accommodation early to avoid higher last-minute prices, especially during peak seasons.
- Consider Location: Choose accommodations in less touristy areas to save money while still enjoying local attractions.
5. Tips for Travelling on a Budget
Here are some practical tips to help you save money while travelling:
1. Cook Your Own Meals
Opt for accommodations with kitchen facilities to save on dining costs. Preparing your meals can significantly reduce food expenses. Here are some meal ideas:
- Breakfast: Porridge, yoghurt with fruit, or scrambled eggs.
- Lunch: Sandwiches or salads with fresh local ingredients.
- Dinner: Simple pasta dishes or stir-fries using local produce.
2. Use Public Transportation
Exploring cities using buses or trains rather than taxis can save you a lot of money. Research local transport options ahead of time to find the best routes and costs. Many cities offer tourist passes that provide unlimited travel for a set period.
3. Find Free Activities
Research local parks, beaches, and free museums that offer fun experiences for families. Some cities have free walking tours, which can be a great way to learn about the area without spending a lot.
4. Take Advantage of Discounts
Many attractions offer family passes or discounts for children. Always ask if there are any special offers or deals available, and consider visiting during off-peak hours for lower prices.
6. Building a Supportive Community
One of the biggest challenges of full-time travel is feeling isolated, especially for families. Building a supportive community can make the experience more enjoyable. Here are some ideas:
Join Online Groups
- Facebook Groups: Search for digital nomad or travelling family groups where you can connect with others on similar journeys. Sharing experiences, tips, and challenges can provide valuable support. I have set one up that has a small following of travel families around the world and we all share our journey and advice. Feel free to join in to here
- Meetup.com: Use platforms like Meetup to find local gatherings or events happening in the cities you’re visiting.
Attend Local Events
- Workshops or Classes: Engage in local workshops or classes related to your interests, such as cooking or art. These can be great ways to meet locals and fellow travellers.
Personal Experience:
During our travels, we found that attending local events not only enriched our experiences but also helped us make lasting connections with other families and locals.
How Families Afford Full-Time Travel: A Practical Guide for Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
With careful planning and smart budgeting, families can afford full-time travel. Embrace the adventure, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your community for support. The world is waiting for you, and with the right strategies, you can create unforgettable memories while living a fulfilling, nomadic lifestyle.
For more travel tips and destination guides, be sure to check out my other blog posts, like Family-Friendly Adventures in Abu Dhabi and How to Afford Full-Time Travel: A Guide for Aspiring Digital Nomads. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and TikTok for daily travel inspiration and updates, and subscribe to my YouTube channel for in-depth travel vlogs. Happy travels!
