When discussing experienced long-term travelers and bloggers in this field, our associate Matt Kepnes of Nomadic Matt is a recognized expert. He’s a travel media innovator, and we’re privileged that he’s asked us to present at his conferences, conduct webinars for the Nomadic Network community, and contribute articles to his site. We are united in the belief that slow travel holds transformative potential and that this enriching experience is not exclusive to the affluent. In fact, traveling on a budget is a savvy approach that not only conserves funds but frequently leads to more authentic and immersive adventures…and that, dear friends, is where the magic truly unfolds! (Find out more in our Nomadic Matt interview below!)
To discover how to enjoy a lifetime of incredible travel experiences without straining your finances, Matt’s recent book, How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, is indispensable. The second edition of this New York Times bestselling title effectively tackles the significant shifts in the travel landscape in recent years and proposes an encouraging path forward. Filled with pertinent and highly specific advice, the 368-page volume is divided into three main parts: trip planning, on-the-road costs, and international travel by region. As we perused it, we found ourselves nodding in complete agreement and marveling at the clever insights and new resources it provided.
NOMADIC MATT INTERVIEW
There’s a wealth of knowledge to gain from both this book and its author! That’s why we’re thrilled to present our Q&A with Matt Kepnes, covering his journey to a life of travel, his inspiration for How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, and insights from this essential travel manual.
Before diving into your new book, can you share a little about yourself…
During a trip to Thailand in 2005, I was motivated by a few backpackers to leave my job and travel for a year. I set off in 2006, but instead of returning in a year, I spent 18 months away. Upon returning in 2008, I started my blog, nomadicmatt.com, as a means to obtain freelance writing opportunities so I could continue exploring. Since there weren’t many blogs addressing long-term budget travel and there was a demand for this elusive information, the site gained popularity, and one day it hit me that I had built a career! I’ve been at it for 17 years now.
What drove you to revise your old book and create How to Travel the World on $75 a Day?
The previous edition was published in 2017, and lots has shifted in the world since then owing to COVID. The pandemic irrevocably changed the travel sector. Numerous businesses shut down, old money-saving tactics became outdated, new strategies emerged, companies were formed, destinations shifted, and, naturally, prices rose significantly.
Given the significant changes in travel, I wanted my book to accurately represent the conditions travelers encounter today when planning trips, budgeting, and exploring regions worldwide. Understanding how to be an astute budget traveler is vastly different from what it was in 2017, so I aimed to provide everyone with current information on how to achieve that!
What are some of the exciting updates in the new edition?
In How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, you’ll discover vast amounts of new information. I rewrote around 80% of this book since so much about travel has evolved. What I thought would be a simple update turned into a complete overhaul! Key revisions include:
– A new chapter on earning and using points and miles
– A thoroughly updated resource section featuring companies and accommodations I admire
– Additional details on overtourism and how to travel responsibly
– Completely rewritten, refreshed, and enhanced destination sections with new prices, savings strategies, dining tips, lodging, transportation, and activities
– New tips and tricks to help save money prior to departure
– Fresh strategies for affordable accommodations, including options for free stays
– Updated advice on saving on transportation, including new insights on transit passes
I imagine a lot of people fixate on that $75 figure…
They do – and they occupy both extremes! Some believe that’s too much because they consider themselves “true travelers” who can do it cheaper (there are always those eager to show they’re better travelers than others) or those who assert that amount doesn’t seem sufficient because they’ve been taught that travel is pricy.
In truth, your experience will differ on a round-the-world trip. Some will do it for more, while others will manage for less. Destinations vary as well, so it ultimately depends.