With my backpacking adventure less than 40 days away, you’d think the money earned from the sale of my worldly possessions would go straight toward my savings account, however I’m a bit tired of saving all the time.
Here’s where the money is going…
1. DC United soccer games (including lots of hot dogs and beer) – I caught the last 2 regular season games, and have plans to attend the first home playoff game, and the MLS Cup, and hopefully the Eastern Conference Championship as well. It’s not just to support the home team, it’s a great way to bond with my friends before leaving.
2. Massage – Oh…my aching knees! Just kidding. The massages are a luxury – and yes, they’ll be cheaper on the road. Still, I did do a little networking, and if I head to Paraguay, I’ve got a local connection!
3. Paper Plates – I’m about to freecycle my dishes.
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Categories: Pre-trip
13 Comments
:grin: You haven’t even started spending yet: vaccinations, dental checkup, spare pair of glasses / contacts, visas, re-newed passport, travel insurance. Have fun spending!
Oh, I’ve already been spending money on my passport, immunizations, dentist, doctors, etc.
The rate of BIG expenditures is really going to increase in the next 7-14 days –
- my first 6 months of travel insurance
- movers/packing supplies/uhaul rental
- 12 months of storage
- getting my car ready to sell (serviced, detailed, new windshield)
- buying my first few flights to get me across the Pacific Ocean
I wouldn’t change a thing! ;)
:grin: You haven’t even started spending yet: vaccinations, dental checkup, spare pair of glasses / contacts, visas, re-newed passport, travel insurance. Have fun spending!
Oh, I’ve already been spending money on my passport, immunizations, dentist, doctors, etc.
The rate of BIG expenditures is really going to increase in the next 7-14 days –
- my first 6 months of travel insurance
- movers/packing supplies/uhaul rental
- 12 months of storage
- getting my car ready to sell (serviced, detailed, new windshield)
- buying my first few flights to get me across the Pacific Ocean
I wouldn’t change a thing! ;)
You seem very wise, Dave. And balance is key — treating yourself to these “splurges” is totally justified, imo. Your peace of mind is as important, if not more so, than the dollars/pesos/rand, etc. you have in your pocket!
Thanks Laura – I’ve tried to remind myself over the years that I’ve been saving that my life is more than just this trip. Realizing it’s OK to enjoy my other interests even so close to departure was a bit of a surprise.
You seem very wise, Dave. And balance is key — treating yourself to these “splurges” is totally justified, imo. Your peace of mind is as important, if not more so, than the dollars/pesos/rand, etc. you have in your pocket!
Thanks Laura – I’ve tried to remind myself over the years that I’ve been saving that my life is more than just this trip. Realizing it’s OK to enjoy my other interests even so close to departure was a bit of a surprise.
Hey, Dave, my girlfriend goes to massage therapy school. Her school (and most other MT schools) offers discounted massages for anyone who calls and makes an appointment. If there are technical schools in your area with a MT course, you can likely get a professional full body massage for less than $20. These students are typically in their last month before actually getting certified. I can attest that they do a great job and it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than going to a spa, physical therapist, etc. It might be worth looking into to save a few $$.
Geez, I could’ve used this advice two years ago. I’m 99% sure I’m done for the near future, unless I happen to sell my car for a fantastical amount beyond my expectations. Hopefully I can last until Asia….such a tough life to lead!
Hey, Dave, my girlfriend goes to massage therapy school. Her school (and most other MT schools) offers discounted massages for anyone who calls and makes an appointment. If there are technical schools in your area with a MT course, you can likely get a professional full body massage for less than $20. These students are typically in their last month before actually getting certified. I can attest that they do a great job and it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than going to a spa, physical therapist, etc. It might be worth looking into to save a few $$.
Hey, Dave, my girlfriend goes to massage therapy school. Her school (and most other MT schools) offers discounted massages for anyone who calls and makes an appointment. If there are technical schools in your area with a MT course, you can likely get a professional full body massage for less than $20. These students are typically in their last month before actually getting certified. I can attest that they do a great job and it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than going to a spa, physical therapist, etc. It might be worth looking into to save a few $$.
Geez, I could’ve used this advice two years ago. I’m 99% sure I’m done for the near future, unless I happen to sell my car for a fantastical amount beyond my expectations. Hopefully I can last until Asia….such a tough life to lead!