When it pertains to experienced long-term travelers and bloggers in this arena, our acquaintance Matt Kepnes from [Nomadic Matt](https://www.nomadicmatt.com/) stands as an undeniable authority. He is a travel media expert, and we feel privileged that he has welcomed us to present at his conferences, conduct webinars for the Nomadic Network community, and contribute articles for his site. We are united in the conviction that slow travel holds transformative power and that such a life-altering experience is not exclusively for the affluent. Indeed, traveling on a budget is a well-kept insider secret that not only conserves funds but often results in more authentic and immersive experiences…and that, dear friends, is where the enchantment unfolds! (*More on this in our interview with Nomadic Matt, below!*)
For insights on how to enjoy a lifetime of extraordinary travel experiences without overspending, Matt’s newest book, *[How to Travel the World on $75 a Day](https://amzn.to/4iHKpRU)*, is essential reading. The second edition of this *New York Times* bestseller adeptly addresses the substantial shifts in the travel industry in recent years and presents an inspiring way forward. Filled with pertinent and detailed advice, the 368-page book is categorized into three parts: trip planning, on-the-road expenses, and global travel by region. As we read, we found ourselves nodding in total agreement and amazed by the clever insights and new resources it presented.
## NOMADIC MATT INTERVIEW
There is much to learn from both this book and its author! This is why we are thrilled to share our Q&A with Matt Kepnes, discussing his journey to a life of travel, the inspiration behind *How to Travel the World on $75 a Day*, and the valuable lessons from this indispensable travel guide.
### Before diving into your new book, share a bit about yourself…
While traveling in Thailand in 2005, I was inspired by fellow backpackers to leave my job and explore for a year. I departed in 2006, but instead of returning in a year, I ended up traveling for 18 months. Upon my return in 2008, I launched my blog, [nomadicmatt.com](https://www.nomadicmatt.com/), to secure freelance writing opportunities that would allow me to continue traveling. Partly because few were blogging about long-term budget travel and there was a demand for this elusive information, the site gained traction, and one day I realized I had built a career! I’ve been at it for 17 years now.
### What inspired you to revise your old book and produce *How to Travel the World on $75 a Day*?
The previous edition was released in 2017, and since then, the world has changed significantly due to COVID. The pandemic has permanently impacted the travel industry. Numerous businesses have shut down, old cost-saving strategies have become outdated, new methods have emerged, new companies have been founded, destinations have shifted, and prices have increased considerably.
Given the drastic changes in travel, I aimed for my book to mirror the current challenges travelers encounter when planning trips, budgeting, and exploring various regions globally. Understanding how to be a savvy budget traveler is markedly different from what it was in 2017, so I wanted to ensure everyone had the latest information on how to do so!
### What are some of the thrilling updates in the new edition?
In *How to Travel the World on $75 a Day*, you’ll uncover a wealth of new information. I ended up rewriting around 80% of the book because so much has evolved in the travel landscape. Initially, I thought it would be a straightforward update, but it turned out to be a significant rewrite! Some notable updates include:
– A new section on accumulating and redeeming points and miles
– A thoroughly updated resource section featuring companies and accommodations I cherish
– Enhanced content on overtourism and tips for being a responsible traveler
– Completely revised, updated, and expanded destination sections that present new prices, saving strategies, plus suggestions for dining, lodging, transportation, and activities
– Fresh tips and tactics on how to save money before your journey
– New methods for affording accommodation, including options for free stays
– New strategies for saving on transportation, featuring updated information on transit passes
### I imagine many people get hung up on the $75 figure…
They do – and they exist at both extremes! Some believe it’s too high because they consider themselves “true travelers” who can do it cheaper (there are always those eager to demonstrate they are superior travelers) while others feel that the figure doesn’t appear