Breaking away from the grind in favor of long-term travel is more financially accessible than many people think.
Being frugal did the trick for me, allowing me to travel for most of 2013. If it's a priority, you can make it happen. Here's how I did it.
Live cheaply and save: This is the obvious one. In America, it is normal to buy more than we need or use. It feels natural, or even compelling, but is far from necessary.
Recognize the things you can do without and stop buying them. I reduced my spending by downsizing my living space, eating more frugally, and purchasing less nice-to-have stuff.
Set up an automatic transfer to your savings account earmarked for your trip. My goal was 5-10% of my paycheck.
It won't substantially change your life to go without a few luxuries. The experience of travel will.
Travel in cheap countries: The American dollar goes far in many parts of the world. Where you choose to visit can impact your budget and how long you can stay.
It may be more rough and tumble in cheaper countries, but that's part of the fun! I had the time of my life backpacking through Central America for six months on a budget of roughly $50 per day all-inclusive. I encourage you to be open-minded and adventurous about where you choose to go!
When you can, make some money! With limits on vacation time, it is challenging to work a normal job and travel for long periods. Most employers don't offer sabbaticals, yet short-term work that pays well is scarce.
It shouldn't have to be this way. Some travelers I met from other countries had 1 or 2 years unpaid leave with jobs waiting back at home. Let's change our professional culture to honor travel!
Related: Unlimited vacation days and other perks you don't get
But if you don't have that luxury, how can you afford a long vacation?
Taking time off between jobs is one way. Contract, seasonal, or remote work in your field can also provide a paycheck while preserving freedom on a more on-going basis.
Vacation...
