Yes, You Can Work Full-Time and Still See the World
Let’s be real—traveling in your 20s after college can feel like an unattainable dream sometimes. You’ve got student loans, an entry-level paycheck (if you’re lucky), and maybe around 15 vacation days to your name. But the truth is: You can travel—and do it well—without quitting your job or draining your savings.
Here’s my best tips on how I’ve managed to balance a 9-to-5 and still sneak in adventures on a post-college budget:
1. Be Strategic with Time Off
Stretch your weekends: Use holidays or take Friday/Monday off to create 3–4 day mini-trips. A quick escape to a nearby city can feel like a full-on vacation if you plan it right. Some holidays I’d recommend for quick trips are President’s Day, MLK Day, and Juneteenth, as these are days most companies have off but not common holidays you spend with family such as Christmas or Easter.
Plan around slower work periods: If your job has a quiet season, ask for time off then—managers are more likely to approve, and flights are usually much cheaper anyways.
2. Set a Travel Fund (Even a Tiny One)
Open a separate savings account and set up auto-transfers, even if it’s just $10 a week. Bonus points for a high yield savings account so you’re earning more interest on your travel fund!
Many bank apps also have savings and budget trackers, making trip planning that much easier.
3. Sleep Smart
Hostels aren’t just for gap year backpackers—they’re fun, social, and SO budget-friendly. Many now offer private rooms if dorm life isn’t your vibe. Even the shared dorm rooms will have access to lockers if you’d feel safer keeping your things somewhere more secure.
Using budget friendly websites to book stays is also a huge money saver. Airbnb can be great, but in some popular locations this will cost an arm and a leg. Try Booking.com or Expedia for some more cost friendly options.
4. Go Where the Deals Are
Be flexible with your destination and let deals guide you. Use apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, or Google Flights Explore to see where flights are cheapest from your city.
Travel off-season. Europe in November? Bali in March? Way cheaper, way less crowded, and still just as magical. Be on the lookout for more off-season travel recommendations in this blog in the coming months!
5. Eat Local, Cheap & Smart
Hit up local markets, bakeries, or food trucks instead of restaurants for every meal. Also, look for places where locals eat—not where the menus are in six languages. Touristy locations tend to upcharge everyone.
If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, make a couple of simple meals yourself and save $$ for that one splurge dinner.
6. Work-Friendly Travel Tips
Ask about remote work flexibility, even just a day or two. Many companies cater to WFH options every once in a while, and this lets you explore a new city without using up all your PTO.
Bring work with you on trains, flights, or airport layovers—great way to be productive without missing out on travel time.
Use your time zones to your advantage: wake up early and explore before your shift, or work in the evening if you're ahead of your home office hours.
7. Pack Light & Right
Save on baggage fees by packing carry-on only. Capsule wardrobes and travel-size everything are your best friends.
Rewear basics, do a quick sink laundry, and bring a packable bag for souvenirs.
Safe Travels!!
Traveling in your 20s doesn’t have to mean quitting your job or blowing your budget! It just takes a little creativity and flexibility. Whether it’s a $60 flight to a nearby city, a last-minute hostel stay, or a long weekend road trip—every little adventure counts.
You don’t have to wait until you’re “more established” to see the world. Go now, even if it’s messy, cheap, and short. That’s half the magic.
